Early Childhood Education State Short Certificate: Outdoor Learning Environments

Discover the power of nature as a teacher. This 20-credit certificate combines core early learning knowledge with specific training in nature-based pedagogy. You will explore the developmental benefits of outdoor play, the educator's role in supporting risky play, and strategies for using the outdoors as a primary learning environment. This certificate meets state licensing requirements and stacks directly into the AAS degree.

Visit the department website for more information

Program Requirements

ECED& 120 - Early Childhood Practicum
requires clearance using the Portable Background Checkrequired by the Division of Children Youth and Families and managed by Merit.

Some courses require off-campus field experiences, including program observations, site visits, service learning, practicums, or field trips. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation.

Program Core Courses

Total Program Credits: 20

Program Outcomes

Apply foundational theories of child development to support physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth
Apply principles of nature-based learning to design outdoor experiences that support child development and appropriate risk-taking.
Synthesize the core competencies of the State Early Childhood Initial Certificate.

General Requirements

Read the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements.

Internal Coding

Last Updated	Summer 2026
Description	St Short ECE Outdoor C20
Academic Plan	ECEOLC20
CIP Code	13.121