IHCC partners with Iowa Wesleyan

OTTUMWA ? Students who graduate from the early childhood education program at Indian Hills Community College now have a new option in continuing their education.

Indian Hills and Iowa Wesleyan College recently finalized a new partnership. Students who have completed their Associate of Applied Science degree at IHCC will now be able to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood education at Iowa Wesleyan though a smooth and seamless transition process.

This will allow those interested in a career in early childhood education to obtain teacher licensure in order to teach preschool or kindergarten.

?Students who enroll in the early childhood program at Indian Hills have a goal of working with children ages 8 and younger,? said Gina Buttikofer, program director of the child development program at IHCC. ?Some of our graduates want to continue their education with a degree specifically in early childhood, as opposed to elementary education. This articulation agreement allows graduates to accomplish this goal while remaining in southeast Iowa. It?s a great fit.?

One advantage to the agreement is that the required coursework at Iowa Wesleyan can be taken in the evening, which allows students the opportunity to begin their careers after completing their AAS degree while continuing their education.

?There are many jobs available to a student with an AAS degree in early childhood education, such as teaching at a private childcare facility or school, becoming a nanny or opening a childcare program in the home,? said Becky Buckner, associate professor of education and chairwoman of the teacher education program at IWC. ?By completing two more years of school to get their BS degree at Iowa Wesleyan, the student can become licensed to teach in a public school.?

Anyone who wants more information on the IHCC early childhood education program can contact Buttikofer at Indian Hills.