Schoolcraft program code #1YC.00031
The Early Childhood Education Certificate program provides an educational foundation for understanding children’s development and children’s needs. The program emphasizes helping students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to plan developmentally appropriate learning environments, nurturing strategies and activities for children which promote their physical, intellectual, social and emotional growth and wellbeing.
Students who satisfactorily complete the program requirements qualify for a certificate of program completion.
Prior to the start of field placement hours, interviews at sites where children are present, observations, service learning experiences or practicums, students must:
- have a clear criminal background check
- obtain Michigan Central Registry Clearance from the Michigan Department of Human Services
- obtain a current TB test
Students who are not cleared through a criminal background check and by the Michigan Department of Human Services will not be permitted in the ECE/SPE programs. Some field placement/practicum sites may have additional requirements prior to starting an experience/practicum.
Students are expected to follow the ECE/SPE program policies, abide by the National Association for the Education of Young Children Code of Ethical Conduct, follow field placement policies and conduct themselves appropriately in the presence of children, families, and professionals during field placements/practicums. In order to receive an Early Childhood Education Certificate students need to obtain a grade of 2.0 or higher in ECE 135 and ECE 145 .
Not all courses are offered each semester. Students should work with an academic advisor to develop a plan of study that works for them. Students planning to transfer are advised to check the transfer institution’s requirements/guides and discuss their options with an academic advisor. Number of credits may vary depending on the course selection.
