Education Studies Associate of Science

The Education Studies Associate of Science degree is designed to prepare students for employment as an Education Paraprofessional in a TK-12 classroom and satisfies the Title I requirement of 48 college units for Education Paraprofessionals. This degree may also provide students the opportunity to transfer to a California State University traditional or an integrated teacher preparation program in Multiple Subject (Elementary School) or Special Education. The Education Studies Associate of Science degree also incorporates subject matter that may prepare students for the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) exam. 

Upon completion of the following courses with at least a ‘C’ grade in each course, the student will be awarded an Associate of Science degree.

The estimated number of completers is 10 in the first year with an estimated 100 enrollments annually.

This program equips current and future educators to be innovative contributors to teaching sensitively to diverse classrooms. It aligns with the mission and master planning of Bakersfield college by promoting equity, fostering critical thinking, communicate effectively, engage productively with communities, and develop work-place skills.

1. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to compare the roles and requirements of educational paraprofessional, substitute teacher, and credentialed teacher.

2. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to support and/or facilitate learning at the K-12 grade levels using current learning theories and research-based best practices.

3. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to leverage technology to support and increase student success in diverse classrooms.

4. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to reflect on personal meanings related to education and teaching by examining personal characteristics, assumptions, beliefs, and goals as well as historical foundations, community knowledge, laws, and current events.

This program equips current and future educators to be innovative contributors to teaching sensitively to diverse classrooms. It aligns with the mission and master planning of Bakersfield college by promoting equity, fostering critical thinking, communicate effectively, engage productively with communities, and develop work-place skills.

The local degree is the culmination of four stackable paraprofessional certificates. It will be housed in the Education Department. It also provides opportunities to explore the Online Teaching Job Skills Certificate and the Child Development Job Skills Certificate. 

There are no similar programs in the service area. There are currently clear and prescriptive transfer pathways for Early Childhood Education and Elementary Teaching, Nontraditional students and students seeking to enter areas of Education outside of the previously listed areas do not currently have a clear path. This program gives these students a path. Possible immediate job opportunities include Title I Education Paraprofessional and after-school program director. If students continue to 4-year universities and beyond career opportunities include teaching, instructional design, administration, and non-profit work. 

List A: Select 2 of the following courses.

List B: Select 1 of the following courses.

List C: Select at least 3 courses from the following list or courses not already completed in List A or B for a minimum total of 6 units.