Early Childhood Educator 2, SC

This is a draft edition of the 2025-2026 catalog. Information is subject to change.

This program can be completed 100% online. 

Program Description

The Skills Certificate, Early Childhood Educator 2 includes 18 units building from a foundation of child development toward an introduction to the field of early childhood education. All courses are also required for the early childhood education AA and AAS degrees. The certificate is one of a series of three, stackable skills certificates available in early childhood education. Students may earn the skills certificates as they progress toward an AA/AAS degree in early childhood education, or as professional development certifications for non-degree seeking students.

This program is not eligible for financial aid. However, it may be eligible for scholarship funding if the student is awarded scholarships.

Early Childhood Education Career Map

Recommended Course Schedule

Plan of Study Grid
1st semesterUnits
ECE 130 Infancy 3
ECE 190 Professionalism in Early Care and Education 3
ECE 250 Introduction to Early Childhood Education 3
HDFS 201 Lifespan Human Development 3
HDFS 232 Diversity in Children 3
 Semester Total15
2nd semester
HDFS 202 Introduction to Families 3
 Semester Total3
 Total Units18

Program Requirements

Skills Certificates can consist of a single course or a short set of courses that provide training for entry-level positions or career advancement. These short-term certificates may also prepare students to take state, national and/or industry-recognized certifications or licensing exams.

Skills certificates are awarded upon completion of coursework and marked on a student's transcripts at the end of the semester. Students cannot declare a skills certificate as one's major. Skills Certificates are not eligible for Financial Aid. 

To earn a skills certificate, students must:

  1. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
  2. Have no financial or library obligation to the college.
Certificate Requirement
ECE 130Infancy3
ECE 190Professionalism in Early Care and Education3
ECE 250Introduction to Early Childhood Education3
HDFS 201Lifespan Human Development3
HDFS 202Introduction to Families3
HDFS 232Diversity in Children3
Total Units18

Program Outcomes

Students completing the certificate will:

PSLO1: Explain significant components about the early childhood education profession. 

PSLO2: Identify professional issues and topics within the field of early childhood education. 

PSLO3: Identify topics related to contemporary family life.