Early Childhood Education

  • Overview

Provides beginning coursework in foundational principles of early care and education. Practicum includes on-site observation and coaching to implement learning to practice.

What You'll StudyCourse Sequencing
CECE
Curriculum Documents

To plan certificate completion, see the course descriptions in the academic catalog which specify the planned semester(s) in which required classes are to be scheduled.

This is just one way you might complete the Early Childhood Education Certificate Program in 2 semesters over 1 year of full-time study, or 4 semesters over 2 years of part-time study. (Sample course sequences assume that all pre-requisites have been satisfied and the student is prepared for college-level work.) For a detailed list of required courses, optional electives and program information download the Early Childhood Education program description from our official academic catalog.

Course descriptions are also available in the catalog. Find courses

Sample 1 Year Sequence of Courses
FallSpring

EDU 101
EDU 144
Option 1 EDU 123
Option 2 ENG 101

EDU 141
EDU 216
Option 1 ENG 101
Option 2 EDU 201

Sample 2 Year Sequence of Courses
Fall 1Spring 1Fall 2Spring 2

EDU 101
EDU 144

Option 1 ENG 101
Option 2 EDU 201

Option 1 EDU 123
Option 2 ENG 101

EDU 141
EDU 216

What’s next

Teach and care for children in community-based early childhood settings, working with families and children ages birth, infant-toddler, or preschool (birth through age 5). Students completing the program may be eligible to apply for the national and state recognized Child Development Associate credential. Students will also be eligible to apply for Lead Teacher Certification for community-based programs in Massachusetts. To work towards advanced teaching opportunities in the field of community-based early education and care, students should plan to obtain an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. This certificate stacks into the Greenfield Community College Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education degree. Students may seamlessly continue their education towards this degree.