Early Childhood Education State Short Certificate: Initial

Establish or formalize your professional foundation in early learning with this 12-credit certificate. Designed for both new educators and experienced providers meeting state licensing mandates, this program covers essential professional standards, including health, safety, and nutrition. This certificate fulfills the initial education requirement for staff in Washington State and serves as the first step on the pathway to the Short Certificates and AAS degree.

Visit the Education Department Website

Program Requirements

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: 12

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate professional conduct and build nurturing, culturally sustaining relationships with young children and peers in an early learning setting.
Identify and apply health, safety, and nutrition standards to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment.
Describe the historical foundations, ethical standards, and diverse program models that define the early childhood profession.

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 Education credits will be accepted regardless of age.

General Requirements

Read the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements.

Internal Coding

Last Updates	Summer 2026
Description	ECE Initial State Cert ST C01
Academic Plan	ECEECC01
CIP Code	13.121