Early Childhood Education Certificates
Support children through the early years of development and ensure that every child's voice is heard.
The School of Education offers two certificates in the field of early childhood education for students interested in qualifying for a variety of teaching roles in California or expanding their professional knowledge.
The 24-unit Transitional Kindergarten Certificate offers several pathways to qualify recipients to teach in transitional kindergarten programs. The 27-unit Early Childhood Education Certificate offers the foundational early childhood courses and qualifies recipients for a variety of California Child Development Permit levels.
At Vanguard University, you will integrate faith and learning and build the community needed to succeed in your teaching career. Our transfer-friendly programs are perfect for working adults who need flexibility and convenience.
Fast Facts
- Application Deadline:
Fall - July 1st
Spring - October 1
Summer - April 1
- Number of Units: 24-27
- Cost per Unit: $535
- Time to Degree: 18 months
Pricing is based on the current academic year and is subject to change. Scholarships or partner discounts may be available.
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Why Earn an Early Childhood Certificate from Vanguard University?
At Vanguard University, our education programs are taught by professor-mentors in a caring learning community. Through our philosophy of Education for Love and Wisdom, we prepare you to be a Spirit-led educator who makes a lasting difference in your classroom and school.
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I think the greatest strength to the VU ECE program is the professors. Many of my classmates and myself were working full time when we began this program, and the professors’ encouragements meant so much to me personally. I was speaking to some of the classmates at the graduation, and they shared the same thing, how the professors’ encouragements and support has been so valued by all of us. Feeling understood and shown compassion to made a chaotic day or week so much more peaceful.
Cathy Yi
Alumnus
Featured Courses in the Early Childhood Certificate Programs
What Jobs can I get with an Early Childhood Certificate?
California has a Child Development Permit structure with multiple levels, each authorizing different career levels in the care and education of young children. Each permit level has separate requirements and options to meet the requirements. Whether you want to be an assistant, associate teacher, teacher, master teacher, site supervisor, or program Director, Vanguard has the early education classes you need to complete your education and apply for a permit. Get started today and begin working in the field while you complete your additional education and work toward a fulfilling career in the field of Early Childhood Education.
Note: Vanguard provides the early childhood classes required by State of California (CA) Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC). In order to apply and receive a child development permit, you must apply through CA CTC. To ensure your classes will meet state requirements, we always recommend you check with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
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I am inspired by the positive impact our students will have on the lives of young children and their families in both public and private education settings. This could lead to a more equitable world, as God intended.
Seon Chun-Burbank, EdD
Program Director