Purpose: The one-year certificate program in Early Childhood Development is designed to prepare students with skills related to the care, supervision, education, and development of young children from birth to age eight. There is also the ability to become qualified to work with children up to the age of twelve in programs that serve before and after school and recreational programs.

Occupational Objectives: Employment opportunities include preparation or upgrading of skills for positions as childcare center directors, assistant directors, teachers or assistant teachers, aides, playroom attendants, home based providers or day care workers, camp directors, and before and after school teachers in the following types of facilities: child day care centers, nursery schools, family day care homes, Head Start programs, recreational before and after school programs, hospital based childcare programs, pre-school at risk programs, and pre-kindergarten church-sponsored programs.

Admission Requirements: General college curricular admission

Program Notes: In addition to the general college curricular admission requirements, all entering students will be required to take placement tests in math and English to aid placement in the appropriate courses. Students who do not meet required placement levels must enroll in developmental studies courses. It is recommended that students arrange for a personal interview and advising appointment with the program head.

An observation and participation in an approved early childhood/primary setting is required in the second semester of the Early Childhood curriculum.  This is a practicum experience internship in a licensed or approved child care setting. It is a planned learning experience for the purpose of pulling together the theories and practice learned in the classroom. A Criminal Record Clearance/Sex Offender Registry Check is required for placement and volunteering. Students should see the program head for a list of convictions that will prevent employment. Students will be expected to complete a tuberculosis test before practicum placement.

Students must attain a grade of "C" or higher in all courses with CHD, PSY, and EDU course prefixes.

Students must have a valid first aid and CPR certificate in order to be eligible for graduation. Valid cards must be filed with the program head or central admissions office prior to expiration and graduation.

Computer Competency Requirement: Students in this program will meet the college’s computer competency requirement by successfully completing ITE 115. Students can also meet this requirement by passing the college’s computer competency exam, administered in the testing centers on each campus, in which case they will receive college credit for ITE 115. Students not passing the computer competency exam may retake the exam only once.

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