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Early Childhood Studies: Special Education

Award Type: Certificate of Achievement

Completion of the ECS: Special Education certificate of achievement program would qualify students up to a Master Teacher-level permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This prepares the student to work in Title 5, Title XXII and federally funded programs.

The graduate of the Certificate of Achievement in Early Childhood Studies: Special Education will:

  • Understand and apply child development theories and principles.
  • Identify and implement observation, documentation and other assessment strategies.
  • Value and cultivate collaborative family and community relationships.
  • Identify, develop and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and teaching practices to positively guide children's behavior and learning.
  • Develop self-reflective habits and grow as members of the early childhood profession to understand the complexities of working with diverse groups of families, children, staff and the community.
  • Develop an environment that honors the diversity of the learning community - through empowerment, equity, respect and dignity.

Program Requirements

A major 43 units is required for certificate. Required core courses (37 units)

Course Number Course Title Units
ECS 100 Child Growth and Development 3.0
ECS 101 Child, Family and Community 3.0
ECS 102 Child Health, Safety & Nutrition 3.0
ECS 104 Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children 3.0
ECS 105 Observation and Assessment 3.0
ECS 106 Introduction to Early Childhood Curriculum 3.0
ECS 112 Introduction to Young Children with Special Needs 3.0
ECS 113 Curriculum and Strategies for Children with Special Needs 3.0
ECS 116 Teaching in a Diverse Society 3.0
ECS 118 Practicum: Preschool 3.0
ECS 119 Practicum: Infant/Toddler 3.0
ECS 149 Cooperative Work Experience: Occupational 1.0 - 8.0 units
ECS 103 Introduction to Early Childhood 3.0

Plus a minimum of 6 units selected from the following:

Course Number Course Title Units
ASL 120 American Sign Language 1 3.0
ECS 111 Administration I: Programs in Early Childhood Education 3.0
ECS 114 Parent/Child Relationships 3.0
ECS 122 Positive Child Guidance 3.0
ECS 151 Infant and Toddler Development 3.0
EMS 102 First Aid & Safety 3.0