Effective Date
01/20/2025
Basic Certificate in Early Childhood Education
Total Program Credits: 16
(formerly Early Childhood Advanced Career Pathway Level II Certificate, Gateways to Opportunity Level II Credential)
The Basic Certificate in Early Childhood Education 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, observation, documentation and assessment. This certificate is aligned with the 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 Basic Certificate in Early Childhood Education 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.
- Recognize professional practices that are aligned with NAEYC Professional Standards and Code of Ethical Conduct.
(Reviewed Fall 2024)
Placement Measures
Program Map for Students
| 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 |
| 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 | 3 |
| Total Semester Credits: | 9 |
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) |
Last Updated
1/16/2025 12:35:12 PM