Early Childhood Education State Short Certificate: School Age Care

Develop the foundational skills needed to work with children ages 5-12 in before-school, after-school, and summer programs. This 20-credit certificate combines the core state requirements for early learning with specific training in school-age care. You will learn the basics of creating age-appropriate activities, guiding behavior, and providing safe environments. This certificate meets state licensing requirements for a variety of positions and stacks directly into the AAS degree.

Visit the Education Department Website

Program Requirements

ECED& 120 - Early Childhood Practicum
requires clearance using the Portable Background Check required 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, with a focus on middle childhood and early adolescence
Plan and implement basic, culturally relevant activities and care routines appropriate for children ages 5-12.
Synthesize the core competencies of the State Early Childhood Initial Certificate.

Program Notes

Not all classes are offered every quarter. Talk to a faculty adviser.
You have to earn a grade of 2.0 in each required class to apply it to a certificate or degree.
Education coursework older than 5 years may not apply.

General Requirements

Read the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements.

Internal Coding

Last Updated	Summer 2026
Description	ECE School Age Care State C20
Academic Plan	ECESAC20
CIP Code	13.121