Early Childhood Education Certificate
The early childhood certificate program is designed to prepare students to work in a variety of child care settings with children from infancy through age eight. The curriculum consists of ten courses: a core of seven courses directly related to early childhood education, plus three foundation courses in psychology and communications. The curriculum is designed to be completed within two semesters or over a longer period of time if a student chooses. Students may apply earned credits toward an AAS in early childhood education.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
- Describe theories and principles of child development and learning and apply the theories and principles to the classroom teaching.
- Use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment strategies in observing and working with children.
- Apply developmentally appropriate teaching practices and guidance approaches to enhance children's learning and development.
- Develop and implement curriculum plans to promote children's learning in the areas of physical/motor, social, emotional, cognitive, and language development.
- Be reflective practitioners to reflect and use the most effective methods of guidance and teaching when working with children.
- Demonstrate written, verbal, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which will allow them to effectively make connections between prior knowledge/experience and new learning.
- Teach young children in an early childhood setting with the required disposition, knowledge, skills, and competencies.
- Work on the AAS with good understanding of the required content areas.
Program Advising
Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer. The program advising guide outlines the certificate requirements and is meant to supplement the advising process.
Careers
Related careers include elementary school teacher (grades pre-K through 3rd grade), educational diagnostician, rehabilitation counselor, education administrator, guidance counselor, family counselor, childcare director, and childcare teacher.
- Career Outlook for Pre-School Teachersnew window: Information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Curriculum
See catalog for course descriptions.
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Related Programs and Courses
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Find more information on WDCE courses in promoting literacy and numeracy concepts with young children, meeting the educational requirements for operating a family and center-based child care facility, earning clock hours and CEUs for training and licensing requirements, and preparing for applying for a CDA credential.