Campus Location: Calmar, Peosta
Program Entry: Enrollment may occur during any term. Fall term is the start of the program course sequence.
Award: Certificate
Description: The Early Childhood Education certificate is comprised of four courses and can be completed in one or two semesters. It is intended to provide the latest information and skills needed for an entry-level position in a child care program. This certificate meets the requirements for clock hours of formal child care education required for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Additional requirements that meet the work hours required for the CDA credential can be obtained in the Early Childhood diploma program. Upon completion of the certificate program, successful students will be prepared to practice appropriate guidance techniques, recognize and carry out appropriate activities and assessment for young children, maintain a healthy and safe setting and be able to communicate effectively with children and families.
Essential skills needed for a career in the field of early childhood education include the ability to maintain awareness of active children in a group setting, to engage in multiple tasks and activities with children, to respond quickly and appropriately to children’s changing needs and to keep children safe.
Program Learning Outcomes:
- Students will apply knowledge learned to establish and maintain a safe and healthy environment.
- Students will identify typical and atypical child growth and development within all learning domains.
- Students will identify community resources available for family referrals.
- Students will apply the Iowa Early Childhood Learning Standards to plan learning experiences for young children.
- Students will demonstrate ethical behaviors following NAEYC Professional Preparation Standards.
Enrollment Process: See Enrollment Process . Applicants to this program do not need to complete the ALEKS® math assessment.
Academic Requirements: To earn a certificate, students must complete all required coursework with a “C-” grade or above and earn a minimum 2.0 grade point average.
Minimum Credits: 12
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