Certificate — Early Childhood Education Careers
If you’re interested in a career teaching young children, the Early Childhood Education program at Northwest Technical College will prepare you for a variety of opportunities. You’ll learn how to provide a safe, healthy, developmentally and culturally appropriate educational environment for children from birth through age 8.
This 18-credit certificate provides an essential foundation for students preparing to work in a variety of child care settings. Courses focus on the elements of a healthy, developmentally appropriate learning environment for children, working with parents and fellow professionals, understanding and promoting the stages of child development and learning, introducing basic child guidance and gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Employment
Childcare is the third largest industry in Minnesota, and the opportunities are vast across the nation as well. Graduates primarily work in family childcare, work as an aide in a childcare center or continue their education to obtain an additional credential.
Find Career Information
Learn what occupations may be of interest to someone who has completed this program. Find information about wages and employment outlook.
- Job Placement Rate:
100%
- Average Salary in MN
$25,542/yr (1)
- Job Openings in MN, Next Decade
48,284+ (1)
data from: NTC Career Services; Minnesota DEED. (1) for job category Childcare Workers
Next Steps
The 18 credits of this certificate can be applied toward either NTC’s associate of applied science degree or associate of science degree in Early Childhood Education. The AAS includes an advanced field experience as well as courses that focus on strategies for children with special needs, promoting infant/toddler learning in a variety of settings, and how to plan and present literature/literacy experiences for children. The AS includes a variety of general education credits that will fulfill your transfer obligations to a four-year institution.
Degree Requirements
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