Child Care Technician
The new Child Care Management AAS and Child Development diploma programs at Lake Area Tech begin Fall 2025.
Lake Area Technical College is now offering two options under the new Child Care Technician umbrella. Students may choose to complete the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Child Care Management or choose to exit after nine months with a Child Development diploma.
The new Child Care Management AAS program is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on children and families while building a rewarding career in a growing field. This program equips students with the skills needed to lead and manage child care facilities, ensuring high-quality care and early education. With a focus on child development, business management, and communication, graduates are prepared to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals in this essential industry.
Earning a degree in Child Care Management will enable graduates to own their own daycare or become directors of daycare centers. Presently, child care workers in South Dakota have a median salary of $25,700 compared to $58,464 for Education and Child Care Administrators and Preschool and Day Care administrators, according to Lightcast (2024). By including Business and Financial Services courses within the curriculum, graduates will learn the necessary skills to become daycare administrators.
For individuals interested in entering the workforce sooner, the Child Care Technician umbrella offers a nine-month Child Development diploma. Both course outlines are below in the Course Info box.
