Top Jobs in Early Childhood Education
Note: Some jobs require education or training beyond the CNM degree/certificate.
Program Information
New Mexico is a national leader in the professional development of early childhood educators with a career lattice that supports immediate entry into the profession starting with a 45-hour child care training course, to a state-wide articulated early childhood associate degree.
CNM offers an Early Childhood Multicultural Education Degree and a Child Development Certificate. This program is designed for you to become employable in the education system and provide advancement opportunities. The certificate and AA degree is designed if you are working, or would like to work, in the field of Early Childhood (PreK–3rd grade).
Other program features:
- Classes are in English/Spanish and we offer specialized bilingual advisement and support.
- Classes are available during evenings and weekends.
- Financial aid and scholarships are available through the ECECD Scholarship and Wage Supplement Program.
- The associate degree is fully transferable to any college or university in New Mexico with an early childhood bachelor’s degree.
Graduates are eligible to apply for a One Year Vocational Certificate and Child Development Certificate issued by the New Mexico Early Childhood Education & Care Department. You are employed almost immediately upon graduation in various professions, from an educational system to a childcare setting.
Mentor and Teacher Networking Opportunities
The Early Childhood Mentor Network (ECMN) is for EC teachers who have an Associate's Degree or Mentorship Certificate and wish to mentor EC practicum students and/or those starting their EC career. Approved mentors receive a stipend for mentoring. ECMN provides Mentor Certification, professional development, networking, and support for EC Educators throughout New Mexico. |
The Infant Toddler Teacher Network (ITTN) is a collaborative group of teachers who work with children from birth to 36 months. ITTN provides professional development, networking, guidance, and support for infant and toddler educators and mentors throughout New Mexico. Participants attend monthly virtual meetings to explore topics specifically related to Infants and Toddlers. |
The Early Childhood Director Network (ECDN) is a collaborative group of preschool and childcare center directors. Participants attend monthly virtual meetings where they explore topics specifically related to the role of an EC Director. ECDN provides professional development, networking, and support for early childhood center leaders and directors throughout New Mexico. |
Related Information
Links
Scholarships Available
- Teacher Preparation Affordability Scholarship
- T.E.A.C.H. Grant
- Teacher Loan Forgiveness program
- Teacher Loan-for-Service
45-Hour Entry-Level Course
CNM offers a 45-hour Entry-Level Course for employment at early learning and preschool centers around New Mexico.
Field Experience
Certain courses require students to complete hours in settings outside of the CNM classroom. Field experience hours are designed to give students real-world experience in a setting related to the study of the accompanying course.
Español
Ve los cursos y programas que CNM ofrece para hispanoparlante.