Early Childhood

Intro

Gain hands-on experience in a variety of early childcare settings, and develop the skills you need to begin a fun and rewarding career as an early childhood professional, with this certificate program. You’ll be prepared to open your own in-home childcare business or work as an assistant teacher at a childcare center.

Degrees

Early Childhood

Degree:

Certificate

Location:

Fergus Falls Campus

Credits:

Overview

Program Overview

Targeted coursework in child development, behavior guidance, curriculum for young children, and effective communication will prepare you for a successful career as an early childhood professional. You can go straight into the workforce upon completion of this certificate program, or continue your education by transferring seamlessly into our Early Childhood and Education Transfer Pathway degree.

The Early Childhood program will teach you:

Developmentally appropriate learning experiences and guidance strategies
Nutrition requirements for childcare programs
Effective communications with parents and co-workers
Care and planning for children with special needs
Typical and atypical development in children ages birth through 8
The professional childcare code of ethics
Knowledge of physical and emotional health and safety issues

Related Programs

You may also be interested in our Early Childhood Education Transfer Pathway, Child and Adolescent Therapeutic Behavioral Health certificate, and Autism Spectrum Disorder certificate.

Scholarships/Cost

M State has one of the lowest tuition rates in Minnesota, and thanks to grants, scholarships and sponsorships, more than half of all M State students have a completely tuition-free experience.

Learn all about our low tuition rates and fees at Detailed Cost. To explore financial aid options, visit Paying for College. We also offer Zero Textbook Cost programs and courses, which can save you substantial money on books; learn more at Z-Degrees.

Program Cost Estimate

Early Childhood Certificate

Foundation Scholarships

M State's two foundations award more than $280,000 in student scholarships each year. You may be eligible — learn more at Foundations.

Workforce Development Scholarships

More than 40 programs at M State offer Workforce Development Scholarships to new students. See if your program is eligible and apply at Workforce Development Scholarships.

Business and Industry Sponsorships

M State collaborates with local businesses to offer valuable student support, such as financial assistance, internships, part-time jobs and full-time career opportunities. Find details at Business and Industry Partner Sponsorships.

Sample Classes

ECE1111 - Diverse Children and Family Relations

Credits:

3 (3/0/0)

This course covers the relationship between the caregiver/teacher, child, family and community. Students will explore teaching and environmental strategies that promote understanding and support diverse cultural and family structures. Students will examine cultural diversity/dynamics, bias, sensitivity, theory and the importance of the context of family, culture and society as they relate to learning and child development.

ECE1115 - Creative Activities and Environment

Credits:

3 (3/0/0)

This course provides an overview of developmentally appropriate learning experiences in home, center-based and school settings. Students integrate knowledge of developmental needs, environments and teaching strategies to enhance all areas of a child's emerging development throughout the curriculum.