Early Childhood Specialist Certificate

The Early Childhood Specialist Certificate Program equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to work with children from infancy through age six in diverse learning environments. Coursework includes a range of topics, including child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; as well as effective communication skills with both parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children. The courses in this program are not intended for transfer to a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. 

Throughout the program, there is considerable emphasis placed on cultivating professional interaction styles consistent with fostering positive staff relationships, communication, and collaboration with parents, knowledge of community resources, and multicultural awareness. These essential skills prepare students to effectively engage with of the diverse populations within the early childhood education field.

Program Outcomes

• Complete WV State qualifications to be employed in a childcare center for ages birth to 6 years of age or other employment opportunities in child care centers, preschools, family childcare, and other related programs.
• Qualify for employment in a preschool child care center under the supervision of a qualified early childhood teacher.
• Communicate in an early childcare setting professionally and effectively with parents, staff members, and community resources.
• Complete state requirements for the WV Department of Education to function in a public school setting as a teacher’s aide (permanent authorization per county).
• Operate effectively in diverse childcare and learning environments.

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities include preschools, childcare centers, family childcare, and/or other programs for young children. Students can choose classes that align with schedules, and particular interests as there’s no rigid sequence to adhere to.

The following ECED courses are verified to meet community program requirements for permanent authorization by the West Virginia Department of Education and as required by each county for teacher’s aides:

• ECED 103 - Early Language and Literacy (3)  
• ECED 105 - Child Development (3)  
• ECED 107 - Early Childhood Curriculum (3)  
• ECED 165 - Assessment of Young Children (3)  
• ECED 206 - Family/Community Engagement (3)  
• ECED 220 - Early Childhood Inclusion (3)