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Program Description:

The Early Childhood Education Certificate program is a one-year intensive program of study that provides the educational background and supervised training for students interested in working with young children. It emphasizes developmentally appropriate practice and has a child-centered focus. Students learn and apply theory with hands-on experience in a required practicum. The practicum may be in early care and education programs for children.

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

Graduates meet the academic requirements for Lead Teacher as currently specified by the Massachusetts Office of Children’s Services. Many graduates continue their studies toward an associate degree.

Gainful Employment Disclosure Information: In accordance with Federal regulations, Middlesex Community College discloses information about student costs, tuitions, fees and employment statistics to various governing bodies to ensure certification and oversight. See: Gainful Employment Information

Helpful Hints:

Child Growth and Development (PSY 122) is a prerequisite for EDU courses, with the exception of Health and Safety in Early Childhood (EDU 154), which can be taken concurrently.

Note: In order for a student to be eligible to participate in an academic, community or clinical program that involves potential unsupervised contact with children, the disabled, the elderly, or other vulnerable populations, the student may be required to undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check and/or a Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) check.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Certificate program are prepared to:

• Describe the needs and characteristics of young children;

• Explain the influences on development and learning;

• Analyze observation and assessment-tool information to assist children to develop and reach their potential;

• Understand the social, economic and cultural issues facing schools and families;

• Demonstrate knowledge to create healthy, respectful, supportive and challenging learning environments;

• Demonstrate in-depth critical knowledge of the theory and research relevant to the professional role(s) and focus area(s) emphasized in the program.