The associate in applied science - transfer degree includes technical courses required for job preparation but also includes a college-level general education component so that students may prepare for employment or to transfer to a four-year university. Curriculum is based on core competencies outlined by the Washington State Child Care Coordinating Committee and the nationally-recognized Child Development Associate credential. First-year instruction provides students with skills to work as entry-level child care/early education teachers. Second-year students prepare to become lead teachers, program supervisors and directors.