Online Associate of Science in
Early Childhood Education

The ECE Foundational Undergraduate Certificate prepares students for entry-level roles in early childhood settings serving children from birth through pre-kindergarten. The certificate introduces foundational knowledge and skills related to child development, developmentally appropriate practice, family engagement, and inclusive learning environments. Coursework emphasizes safe, responsive, and culturally relevant practices that support the cognitive, social-emotional, linguistic, and physical development of young children. Designed for working adults and diverse learners, the certificate may be completed through flexible delivery formats and serves as a stackable credential within the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Pre-K) pathway.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Identify developmentally appropriate practices and research-based approaches that support the cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development of children from birth to pre-kindergarten.
• Demonstrate introductory instructional and communication strategies, including play-based approaches and appropriate technology, to support diverse learners in early childhood settings.
• Explain foundational child development concepts and early childhood theories and their application in early learning environments.
• Recognize the components of safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environments that support exploration, positive interactions, and healthy development in young children.
• Demonstrate emerging professional and ethical practices through self-reflection, collaboration with families and colleagues, and engagement in introductory professional learning experiences.

The ECE Curriculum & Learning Environment Undergraduate Certificate prepares students to design and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children from birth through pre-kindergarten. The certificate emphasizes curriculum planning, inclusive learning environments, play-based instruction, and culturally responsive teaching practices that support the cognitive, social-emotional, linguistic, and physical development of young children. Students develop skills in instructional strategies, early literacy and mathematics learning, and the use of instructional technology in early childhood settings. Designed to support working adults and diverse learners, the certificate may be completed through flexible delivery formats and serves as a stackable credential within the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Pre-K) pathway.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Plan developmentally appropriate learning experiences and curriculum activities that support the cognitive, social-emotional, linguistic, and physical development of children from birth to pre-kindergarten.
• Apply instructional strategies, including play-based learning, communication techniques, and appropriate technology, to support diverse learners in early childhood settings.
• Apply foundational child development theories and content knowledge to the design of meaningful and engaging early learning experiences.
• Create safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environments that encourage exploration, positive relationships, independence, and active engagement in learning.
• Demonstrate developing professional and ethical practices through reflective decision-making, collaboration with families and colleagues, and participation in professional learning and growth opportunities.

The ECE Professional Practice and Engagement Undergraduate Certificate prepares students to apply professional, ethical, and collaborative practices in early childhood education settings serving children from birth through pre-kindergarten. The certificate emphasizes family and community engagement, culturally responsive teaching, reflective practice, and inclusive approaches that support diverse learners and families. Students develop skills in communication, collaboration, observation, and professional decision-making while strengthening their understanding of equitable early childhood practices. Coursework connects theory to practice and promotes ongoing professional growth and advocacy within the field. Designed for working adults and diverse learners, the certificate may be completed through flexible delivery formats and serves as a stackable credential within the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Pre-K) pathway.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Apply developmentally appropriate and research-based practices to support the cognitive, social-emotional, linguistic, and physical development of children from birth to pre-kindergarten in diverse early childhood settings.
• Demonstrate effective instructional, communication, and collaborative strategies, including the use of appropriate technology and culturally responsive practices, to support children, families, and colleagues.
• Integrate foundational child development concepts and early childhood theories into professional decision-making and reflective practice in early learning environments.
• Implement strategies that promote safe, nurturing, inclusive, and equitable learning environments that support positive interactions, engagement, and healthy development for young children.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical practices through reflective decision-making, collaboration with families and interdisciplinary professionals, advocacy for diverse learners, and engagement in ongoing professional growth.