Early Childhood Education (ECE) Foundational Certificate

CONTACT

Charlene Cross, 413.552.2868, ccross@hcc.edu

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Foundational Certificate prepares students for entry level work in early education and care settings including family childcare and center-based programs. Students will develop knowledge of child development, an understanding of theories and philosophies of the field as well as familiarization with program types. Students will experience academic study, field-based observations, and practical learning opportunities.

This certificate provides the necessary course work and experience leading to employment opportunities as determined by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC).

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

Explain and demonstrate an understanding of how cultural, economic, political, and historical factors
influence theories of child development
Use knowledge of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development to practice assessment of
children from birth to age 8
Explain the main theories, models, job roles, and responsibilities in early childhood education for
creating safe and inclusive learning environments
Follows ethical, legal, and practical considerations for supporting children with diverse needs and
backgrounds in an unbiased way
Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum plans that align with ECE guidelines and support
child development across domains
Demonstrate the ability to use positive and supportive interactions with children, families,
and colleagues

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS: 16 CREDITS

EDU 101 - Introduction to Early Childhood Credit(s): 3
EDU 104(B) - Child Growth and Development Credit(s): 3
EDU 114 - Art, Music, and Movement Curriculum in Early Childhood Education Credit(s): 3
EDU 118 - Practicum in Early Childhood Education Credit(s): 4
EDU 120 - Guiding Children’s Behavior Credit(s): 3

TOTAL: 16 CREDITS

NOTES

Students must achieve a minimum grade of “C” in all EDU prefix courses in order to graduate from these programs and options.

****Criminal Offense Record Act (CORI), and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI)****

Students enrolled in EDU courses may be subject to CORI/SORI background checks and review pursuant to the Criminal Record Information Act, Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6, Section 172-178, and Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 18a, Section 1, et seq., and regulations promulgated pursuant to such statutes. Applicants with a court record/past conviction may be unable to participate in student teaching. If a student is ineligible to do student teaching due to a criminal record, the student will not be able to graduate from the Education Program. The College policy can be found in the Student Handbook.

Depending on course selection, 80% of this program can be completed online. Go to Online Learning for more information.

(M014)