What is an ECE Certificate?
An ECE certificate is widely known as a certificate in early childhood education. If you are a teacher or child day care worker interested in acquiring an ECE certificate or diploma, there are many schools offering these types of programs. Explore coursework, online program options and credentialing requirements in the field.
<h3 id="section---WhatAreMyAcademicOptionsIfIDLikeAnECECertificate">What Are My Academic Options If I'd Like an ECE Certificate?</h3>
<p>Many schools offer early childhood education (ECE) certificate programs. Course topics cover literacy and family life, child development and education for children in grades pre-K-4. You must also complete an internship.
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<p>There are also diploma programs in early childhood education. Like ECE certificate programs, diploma programs combine theoretical courses with opportunities to work as an intern or assistant for course credit. However, diploma programs also include math, English and professional development course topics.
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<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Types</b></td><td>Certificates, diplomas</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>Hybrid and online programs available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Licensure</b></td><td>Certificate program may prepare you for the CDA credential; those hoping to become licensed teachers need an education bachelor's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $31,930 (<i>for all preschool teachers</i>) </td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 2% growth (<i>for all preschool teachers</i>) </td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---WillIBeAbleToFindAnyOnlinePrograms">Will I Be Able to Find Any Online Programs?</h3>
<p>There are a handful of schools offering hybrid or online ECE certificate or diploma programs. You can complete coursework online via interactive or asynchronous course lectures. However, you will still have to complete an internship at a nearby child care facility.
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<p>In most cases, you'll need a broadband Internet connection in addition to software like Windows Media Player and Adobe Acrobat Reader. You may also need Microsoft Word or Excel to complete assignments.
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<h3 id="section---WillTheseProgramsPrepareMeForLicensure">Will These Programs Prepare Me for Licensure?</h3>
<p>ECE certificate and diploma programs may be helpful to students seeking entry-level positions at day care centers. These programs may also be appropriate for those seeking the Council for Professional Recognition's Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
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<p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many states require preschool teachers or other early childhood care providers to hold this credential to meet licensing requirements (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). Applicants with at least 480 hours of experience and 120 hours of training in early childhood education can earn the CDA credential after undergoing a formal observation and passing both oral and written examinations, according to the Council for Professional Recognition (<i>www.cdacouncil.org</i>).
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<p>If you're an aspiring kindergarten or elementary school teacher, an ECE certificate or diploma program will not prepare you to become licensed. You will have to complete a teacher education bachelor's degree program to earn your teaching certificate, according to the BLS. However, kindergarten teachers can enroll in an ECE certificate program to meet continuing education requirements.</p>