The Office of Early Childhood, upon receipt of a proper application and in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner of Early Childhood, shall issue an early childhood teacher credential to any person who holds (1) an associate degree with a concentration in early childhood education from an institution of higher education that is regionally accredited, provided such associate degree program is approved by (A) the Board of Regents for Higher Education or the Office of Higher Education, and (B) the Office of Early Childhood, or (2) a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in early childhood education from an institution of higher education that is regionally accredited, provided such bachelor’s degree program is approved by (A) the Board of Regents for Higher Education or Office of Higher Education, and (B) the Office of Early Childhood. For purposes of this section, “concentration in early childhood education” has the same meaning as provided in § 10-16p.