Find Your Path in Education at Iowa Lakes
Teaching is more than a career, it’s a calling. At Iowa Lakes Community College, students now have multiple pathways to pursue their passion for education. In addition to the Early Childhood Education AAS degree, which prepares graduates for immediate entry into the workforce, Iowa Lakes now offers three transfer majors designed for future teachers:
- Secondary Education Transfer Major
- Elementary Education Transfer Major
- Early Childhood Education Teacher Licensure Transfer Major
These programs give students a strong foundation for success while offering the flexibility to continue their education at a four-year institution.
Which Education Path is Right for You?
Choosing an education major often starts with the question: Which age group do you want to teach? Each transfer major leads to an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree, but the coursework is tailored to different stages of student development:
- Secondary Education – Prepares students to teach middle school and high school.
- Elementary Education – Designed for teaching kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade.
- Early Childhood Teacher Licensure – Focuses on instruction for children from birth through 3rd grade.
For those who want to enter the workforce right after graduation, the Early Childhood Education AAS degree provides hands-on training, essential skills, and industry-recognized certifications to begin a career in childcare or early learning centers.
Why Start at a Community College?
The first two years of a bachelor’s degree often focus on general education courses. By completing these classes at Iowa Lakes, students gain:
- Smaller class sizes with more personalized instruction
- Supportive faculty and staff who know students by name
- Significant cost savings compared to starting at a four-year institution
- A built-in cohort of peers also preparing for teaching careers
This combination creates a strong academic and personal foundation before transferring to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Flexible Options for Every Student
All three transfer majors are available online, making them accessible to students no matter where they live. In-person courses are also offered on each of the five campuses, with the most comprehensive face-to-face options located at the Estherville campus. The Early Childhood Education AAS degree is delivered on the Estherville campus with immersive classroom experiences.
Advice for Future Educators
Exploring career options early helps students discover the right fit. Iowa Lakes encourages education students to:
- Job shadow or volunteer in schools or childcare centers
- Explore multiple pathways, knowing that the transfer majors share a common core of classes—making it easier to adjust your path if your goals change
- Connect with faculty mentors and peers for support along the journey
At Iowa Lakes, you’ll find the resources, guidance, and flexibility to take the first step toward becoming the kind of educator who makes a difference.