Early Childhood Development (Certificate)

Study early childhood development at JCC

Care for young children as they enter their first steps of education. With a certificate in Early Childhood Development at Jamestown Community College, you’ll be able to work in the education field with children from birth through preschool, with some opportunities through second grade.

This certificate prepares you for work in entry level positions in early childhood education and childcare. You can work as an assistant in preschools, childcare centers, and family day care homes, and in school-age childcare settings. If you are already employed in childcare facilities as a family care provider or hold the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, you can use the certificate to update your skills.

You can also continue your education and earn an associate degree in Early Childhood. The certificate is embedded in the A.A.S. in Early Childhood degree, and Mandated Reporter Training certification (Child Abuse Workshop Prevention) is embedded in EDU 2210.

2023 median pay for teacher assistants: $35,550/year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Where to study at JCC

Early childhood development skills

After you complete the program, you will be able to:

  • Understand how young children learn and develop, and recognize appropriate and meaningful learning opportunities that promote comprehensive and developmental learning outcomes for all young children.
  • Demonstrate an introductory understanding of the importance of the relationship between families, communities, and educators.
  • Identify developmentally appropriate assessment and instructional strategies to examine measurable goals, objectives, and evaluation procedures for young children.
  • Exhibit professionalism as a member of the early care and education community, including the use of ethical guidelines.

Semester 1

Course
Credits
Requirements Met

EDU 1250: Early Childhood Development

1

EDU 1260: Health, Safety & Nutrition in Early Childhood Development

3

EDU 1290: Introduction to Early Childhood Education

3

EDU 1310: Family, School, and Community Partnerships

3

ENG 1510: English Composition I

3

PSY 1510: General Psychology

3
  • Have career goal discussion.
  • Review field placement expectations.
  • Look into employment options/outlook.

Semester 2

Course
Credits
Requirements Met

PSY 2520: Child Development

3

EDU 2210: Field Placement I - Education

4

EDU 1300: Observation & Guidance of Young Children

3

EDU 2440: Children’s Literature

3

ENG 1530: English Composition II

3
  • Discuss continuing for an associate’s degree.
  • Prepare for employment.