The Early Childhood Pathways Exams can help turn your experience and workshop training into six college credits by testing your knowledge in two subjects: Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Child Developmental Psychology. 

Who should take these exams?
Anyone whose experience or training matches the content learned in Early Childhood Education and Child Development Psychology should consider taking the exams. Generally, this knowledge is gained from work experience and in-service courses. The Connecticut Charts-A-Course approved Training in Child Development (CCAC modules that cover the Core Areas of Knowledge) has been designed to cover most of the content.

How do I know if I am ready to take the exams?
Each exam has a study guide that describes the content of the exam and includes practice questions. The study guides are available through the Charter Oak State College website at www.cosc.edu.  Or, call Charter Oak State College at (860) 832-3820 for more information.

Where can I take these exams and how do I register?
The exams are given at Charter Oak State College in New Britain. In addition, a number of other Connecticut colleges will provide testing. To register or to find out other testing locations, call Charter Oak State College at (860) 832-3820.

How many credits can I earn?
You will earn three credits for a passing score on each exam, a total of six credits if you pass both exams. You may request a grade report to be sent to the college of your choice.

Note:  Individuals can pay Charter Oak $100 to open a registry where they can bank credits from whatever university they receive credits. They also can transcript the pathways exams at Charter Oak if they are not turning them into a community college.

What colleges will accept these credits?
All of the Connecticut Community Colleges with early childhood associate degree programs have agreed to accept these credits (contact Charter Oak State College for a list of participating institutions). The credits will be used instead of the equivalent courses in their programs. In addition, Teikyo Post University will accept the credits in its program. The credits can also be used toward a degree at Charter Oak State College. Many other colleges and universities may accept these credits in place of the two courses or may use them as elective credits. To find out how these credits transfer, call the institution where you would like to use the credits.

What is the cost of each exam?
Each exam is $75.

Is there scholarship money available?
If you are a child care provider earning an income working directly with young children, you are eligible to apply for scholarship assistance from Connecticut Charts-A-Course. Call (800) 832-7784 x3 for more information.