Early Childhood Education

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  4. Early Childhood Education Initial State Certificate

ECE: State Initial Early Childhood Education Certificate

Certificate

This certificate program is the first step in a pathway for students interested in working in the field of early childhood education. Learn to establish or improve ECE learning environments, assess children's skills and behavior based on developmentally appropriate practices, and organize/implement classroom processes in an early learning setting. Students complete 12 credits, resulting in an Early Childhood Education Initial State Certificate. Students interested in continuing their education would move into one of five Specialization Certificates.

Estimated Length of Completion

Degree Quarters Credits
Certificate Full Time: 1
Part Time: 2		 12.0

Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.

There are no entry requirements for this program

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss specific career goals and recommended coursework.

For current employment and wage estimates, please visit the following online resources and search for the relevant occupational term:

All costs are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling 206.934.5391. There are additional costs for books and supplies. Each student is responsible for the purchase of certain supplies and required tools before the instruction begins.

Part Time Cost

Resident Non-Resident International
$1,531.08 $1,749.48 $3,937.56

Hours may vary based on specific program requirements. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling 206.934.5391.

Worker Friendly

This program is offered at times and in formats that meet the needs of working adults. This includes:

  • Online: Coursework is generally completed over the internet, within a quarterly timeframe, contact with instructor via email. Some courses may require limited on-campus visits.
  • Hybrid: Hybrid courses provide students with the scheduling flexibility of fewer campus visits while covering the same materials as an equivalent class held entirely on campus. Hybrid classes usually have at least one on-campus meeting per week combined with a "virtual classroom" with online content, lessons and activities.
  • Evening: Courses with a start time of 4:00 PM or later.
  • Weekend: Courses offered on Saturday or Sunday

Coursework

Course Course ID Credits Availability

Explore the foundations of early childhood education. Examine theories defining the field, issues and trends, best practices, and program models. Observe children, professionals, and programs in action. Students are required to work or volunteer directly with children.

ECED& 105 5.0

Develop knowledge and skills to ensure good health, nutrition, and safety of children in group care and education programs. Recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, learn about responsibilities for mandated reporting, and learn about available community resources. This course requires students to work or volunteer directly with children outside of class time.

ECED& 107 5.0

In an early learning setting, students will engage in establishing nurturing, supportive relationships with all children and professional peers. Focus on children's health & safety, promoting growth & development, and creating a culturally responsive environment. This course requires students to spend time in an early learning setting outside of class.

ECED& 120 2.0