Certificate of Proficiency in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology
This two-semester certificate provides foundational knowledge and practical experience for students preparing to work with young children. The program fulfills the theoretical requirement and 30 hours of the field experience requirement for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Upon completion of the certificate, students are eligible to finalize the CDA approval process.
Program Overview
Upon completion of the program, graduates may be prepared for employment in childcare and early childhood education settings, including childcare centers, Head Start and Early Head Start programs, ABC Programs, and elementary classrooms.
Certificate Highlights
- Certificate Highlights
- 12 Credit-Hour Certificate
- Two-semester program
- Includes early childhood field experience
- Fulfills the theoretical requirement and 30 hours of field experience toward the CDA credential
- Provides a pathway into the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology
Continue Your Education
Ready to continue your education?
The Certificate of Proficiency in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology can serve as the first step toward the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology. Coursework completed as part of the certificate is included in the A.A.S. degree pathway.
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology — 60 credit hours
[Learn more about the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology]Certificate of Proficiency in Early Childhood Paraprofessional Technology — 12 credit hours
Program of Study
The following is a suggested sequence of courses. Students should work with their academic advisor to select appropriate courses and electives.
| Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| EDUC 1013 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDUC 1113 – Early Childhood Field Experience | 3 |
| ECDT 1113 – Essential Elements of Childcare | 1 |
| EDUC 2333 – Child Growth and Development | 2 |
Total Program Credit Hours: 12
This certificate fulfills the theoretical requirement and 30 hours of the field experience requirement for the CDA credential. Upon completion, students are eligible to finalize the CDA approval process.
Program Requirements
Field Experience Requirements
Students enrolled in Early Childhood Paraprofessional courses are required to complete required background and health screenings before participating in field and/or practicum experiences. Students are responsible for fees associated with these examinations and background checks.
Academic Requirements
A grade of C or better is required for all Early Childhood Paraprofessional major courses, with an overall GPA of 2.00 or higher required for graduation.
What Do I Need to Get Started?
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent OR
- ACT score of 19 or above OR
- An Accuplacer test. This can be performed at the college; you can read more on our Admissions page.
Cost & Financial Aid
Explore where this program could take you.
The information below highlights potential career opportunities related to this program. Career outcomes vary based on individual experience, education, skills, and other factors.
Ready to Get Started?
For more information: Dean Denise Zeiler, dzeiler@seark.edu, (870) 850-3150