UCCI

The Associate of Science in Primary Education

The Associate of Science in Primary Education at UCCI equips students with foundational knowledge in teaching, child development, and classroom management. Through a curriculum designed to build effective educational strategies and hands-on experience in local schools, this program prepares students to inspire young learners. Graduates may pursue roles as teaching assistants or advance to UCCI’s Bachelor of Education program for a rewarding career as primary educators in the Cayman Islands and beyond.

Key Facts about the Programme

Programme Duration

2 years (full-time)

Semesters Offered

Typically available in Fall and Spring semesters

Total Credits Required

62–63 credits, with a focus on educational foundations and classroom experience.

Accreditation

Recognized for transferability, especially within UCCI for advanced education programs.

Unique Selling Points

Classroom Placements

Offers practical teaching experience in local schools, providing real-world skills in classroom management and student engagement.

Pathway to Bachelor’s in Education

Graduates can smoothly transition to UCCI’s Bachelor of Education, specializing in primary education.

Focus on Child-Centered Learning

Courses emphasize child development and effective teaching methods tailored to young learners

Career Information

Average Starting Salary

Entry-level roles in primary education typically start around $35,000 - $45,000 USD, depending on the position and experience.

Key Jobs After Graduation

Teaching Assistant: Provides instructional support to teachers, helping manage classroom activities and assist with student learning.
Early Childhood Educator: Works with young children in early education settings, fostering foundational skills in a nurturing environment.
Classroom Support Specialist: Assists in managing student behavior, coordinating classroom resources, and supporting lesson delivery.
Special Education Assistant: Supports teachers in specialized settings, working with students who have additional learning needs.

Potential Employers in the Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands Ministry of Education: Roles within public primary schools as teaching assistants or classroom support staff.
Private schools: Opportunities in classroom assistance, early childhood education, and student support.

Ready to start?

Take the first step toward your future, apply now or schedule a visit to learn more.

Core Courses

COL 101

College and Employability Skills (3 credits)

ENG 101

College Composition I (3 credits)

MAT 105

College Algebra (3 credits)

SPA 101

Introduction to Spanish I / Lab (4 credits)

Science Requirement

(3-4 credits)

ENG 102

College Composition II (3 credits)

EDU 101

Introduction to Education (3 credits)

EDU 105

Child Development (3 credits)

MAT 111

Math for Teachers I (3 credits)

HIS 121

Caribbean History (3 credits)

EDU 201

Educational Psychology (3 credits)

EDU 210

Classroom Management (3 credits)

EDU 220

Instructional Strategies (3 credits)

EDU 230

Practicum in Primary Education (3 credits)

Additional Requirements

Social Science Requirement

6 credits, to support understanding of societal influences on education.

Electives

6 credits, chosen in consultation with an advisor

Degree Plan (Suggested Sequence)

Year 1 - Fall

COL 101 - College and Employability Skills
ENG 101 - College Composition I
MAT 105 - College Algebra
SPA 101 - Introduction to Spanish I / Lab

Year 1 - Spring

ENG 102 - College Composition II
EDU 101 - Introduction to Education
MAT 111 - Math for Teachers I
Social Science Requirement

Year 2 - Fall

EDU 105 - Child Development
HIS 121 - Caribbean History
EDU 201 - Educational Psychology
Science Requirement

Year 2 - Spring

EDU 210 - Classroom Management
EDU 220 - Instructional Strategies
EDU 230 - Practicum in Primary Education
Elective

Electives & Future Study Options

Future Study Options

Graduates of the Associate of Science in Primary Education can continue to UCCI’s Bachelor of Education program, specializing in primary education. This pathway provides advanced coursework in curriculum development, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques, further preparing students for licensed teaching roles

The Associate of Science in Primary Education at UCCI offers a solid foundation for those passionate about teaching and working with young children. With practical teaching placements and a curriculum tailored to primary education, this program prepares graduates for impactful roles in classrooms or continued study. UCCI graduates are well-equipped to inspire and shape future generations in Cayman’s schools.