Certificate programs can usually be completed in one year of full-time enrollment and offer specific general education along with key skill area courses designed to respond to local employment needs. Certificate programs are often equal to the first year of a corresponding associate degree.
AWARD: Certificate
LENGTH:
3 Semesters
PURPOSE:
The curriculum is designed to both train individuals in childcare and education to serve as aides and upgrade skills of those serving in a similar capacity.
OCCUPATIONAL OBJECTIVES:
Graduates may qualify for a position as a day care provider, teacher's aide in preschool programs, teacher's aide in preschool programs, home care providers and licensed day care administrators.
POTENTIAL CERTIFICATION:
The graduate of the program will be qualified to serve as a director/administrator or a lead teacher in a licensed child care center, early learning center, or family day home in the state of Virginia.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:
Students must meet the general admission requirements established by the college. Students with deficiencies in English or mathematics will complete appropriate developmental studies courses.
CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS:
Students must satisfactorily complete each of the requirements listed below to receive a Certificate in Early Childhood Education.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (16 CREDITS):
ENG 111 College Composition I (3)
PSY 135 Child Care Psychology (3)
HLT 100 First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (3)
MTH 120 Introduction to Mathematics (3)
ITE 115 Intro. to Computer Applications & Concepts (4)
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS (22 CREDITS):
CHD 118 Methods & Materials Language Arts for Children (3)
CHD 120 Introduction to Early Childhood Education (3)
CHD 125 Creative Activities for Children (3)
CHD 126 Developing Science & Math Concepts for Children (3)
CHD 205 Guiding the Behavior of Children (3)
CHD 265 Advanced Observation & Participation in an Early Childhood Setting (3)
HLT 135 Child Health and Nutrition (3)
SDV 108 College Survival Skills (1)
Minimum required for certificate: 38 Credits
SAMPLE SCHEDULE:
First Semester:
CHD 118 Methods & Materials in the Language Arts for Children (3)
CHD 120 Introduction to Early Childhood Education (3)
ENG 111 College Composition I (3)
ITE 115 Intro. to Computer Applications & Concepts (4)
PSY 135 Child Care Psychology (3)
SDV 108 College Survival Skills (1)
Total Credit Hours: 17
Second Semester:
CHD 125 Creative Activities for Children (3)
CHD 126 Developing Science & Math Concepts for Children (3)
CHD 205 Guiding the Behavior of Children (3)
CHD 265 Advanced Observation & Participation in an Early
Childhood Setting (3)
HLT 100 First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (3)
Total Credit Hours: 15
Third Semester:
HLT 135 Child Health and Nutrition (3)
MTH 120 Introduction to Mathematics (3)
Total Credit Hours: 6
Total Semester Hours: 38
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