Early Childhood Advanced Career Pathway Level II Certificate, Gateways to Opportunity Level II Credential

Pathway:

Early Childhood Career Pathway Level II, Gateways to Opportunity Level II Credential

Certificate Type:

Basic

Curriculum Code:

ECE.CDA.CERT (C420C)

Total Program Credits: 15

(formerly Early Childhood Career Pathway Level II)

The Early Childhood Career Pathway Level II Certificate is designed for students interested in entering the Early Childhood Education Field or students currently employed within the field seeking to progress in their current role. Students will be introduced to foundational concepts and best practices in the areas of: child development, curriculum and instruction, health, safety and nutrition, guidance and classroom management, diversity and inclusion, and observation, documentation and assessment. This certificate will lead to a Gateways to Opportunity Level II Early Childhood Credential. This pathway is designed with stackable course offerings so students can progress within the credentialing system and obtain more advanced certificates and degrees.

Field Experience/observation hours within the field are required for all ECE Courses.  

All program courses may not transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Early Childhood Career Pathway Level II Certificate program, the graduate will be able to:

• recognize Developmentally Appropriate Practice in all aspects of curriculum and instruction;
• describe the developmental characteristics and needs of children birth through age eight;
• utilize observation methods to document and assess young children in all areas of development;
• identify approaches to creating respectful and reciprocal relationship with children and their families; 
• create classroom environments that promote respect and acceptance for human diversity; and

• recognize professional practices that are aligned with NAEYC Professional Standards and Code of Ethical Conduct.

(Fall 2021)

Placement Measures

Program Map for Students

Semester One: Fall
Course	Category	Credits
ECE 110 ◊ Early Child Development	Core Course	3
ECE 111 ◊ Introduction to Early Childhood Education	Core Course	3
ECE 153 ◊ Guiding Children and Managing the Classroom	Core Course	1
	Total Semester Credits:	7
Next Steps	Meet with your Academic Advisor to create an academic plan. Explore stackable certificate(s)/degree(s)

Semester Two: Spring
Course	Category	Credits
ECE 118 ◊ # Health, Nutrition & Safety	Core Course	3
ECE 142 ◊ # Students With Disabilities in School	Core Course	3
ECE 146 ◊ Child, Family & Community	Core Course	2
	Total Semester Credits:	8
Next Steps	Meet with your Academic Advisor to finalize your academic plan for graduation and register for stackable certificate/degree (option). Submit graduation petition by deadline (check for the specific date in catalog or syllabus.)

Note:  A minimum grade of "C" is required as a prerequisite for each ECE course in all ECE programs.

See ECE course descriptions.

Chairperson: Ally Miller, Ext. 3807, email: [e-mail]

KEY (AAS/CERT)
General Education	Communications, Fine Arts, Humanities, Life Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social and Behavioral Science (see individual degree requirements).
Core Course	Course(s) listed in a semester the student is required to take.
Program Elective	Course(s) that faculty recommend and are listed in the ‘Program Electives’ section (if any) for this program.	If intending to transfer, choose courses accepted by your transfer institution.
General Elective	Course(s) chosen by the student, if needed, above and beyond core courses and program electives (if any), to complete the Program Total Credits.
◊ symbol	This course is articulated. (course transfers to 3 or more Illinois State schools, as an elective or equal course-to-course)
# symbol	This course has a prerequisite. (course(s) student takes prior to taking this course)