This certificate program enables students to obtain the skills, values, and knowledge necessary to work in entry level positions in early childhood education/child care such as assistants in preschools, childcare centers and family day care homes, and in school-age child care settings. In addition, the program provides opportunities for those already employed in child care facilities, including family care providers and those holding the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, to update and refresh their knowledge and skills. The program also provides interested students the opportunity to continue their education beyond the level of a certificate to that of an Associate in Applied Sciences in human services with the added possibility of transferring to a bachelor's level program in early childhood education. This certificate can be used as part of a more complete career ladder in early childhood education and care.

• HUS 1250, 1260, and 1270 do not have an ENG 1530 eligibility prerequisite and are, therefore, ideal starting points for the student pursuing a certificate in early childhood development.
• Individuals who have earned the Child Development Associate (CDA) will receive these 10 JCC credits: HUS 1250, HUS 1260, HUS 1290, and HUS 2210.
• Early childhood development certificate courses are designed as a career ladder leading to the associate degree. They therefore change according to changes in New York state education requirements.
• Students must be willing to obtain and pay for any necessary physical or medical examinations or tests, which are required by some internship agencies.
• Enrollment in the program does not guarantee acceptance into field placements in the program.
• Students must complete an application for EDU/HUS 2210: Field Placement I, and approval of the application is required for the filed placement to commence. For students pursuing a human services career path, HUS 1210: Introduction to Human Services with a grade of C or better is the prerequisite. For students pursuing an education/teaching career path, EDU/HUS 1290: Introduction to Early Education and Care with a grade of C or better is the prerequisite.
• Some internship agencies require FBI or Child Abuse Registry checks. These processes can be lengthy and may require up to four months in order for approval to be obtained prior to placement.
• Field placement will take place with children in an educational setting.