Early Childhood Short Certificate

Program Details Early Childhood Short Certificate

Here is a general overview of what your classes will look like following each quarter. This information may be subject to change. Please contact your advisor for more information regarding the courses. To see which materials are needed for your courses, click this bookstore link Links to an external site. and enter the course information.

 General Overview

When can I start? Fall (September), Winter (January), Spring (April), or Summer (July)

How long is the program? 2 quarters (5 to 6 months) with 20 total credits

When do classes meet? Mostly online. Practicum courses require students to complete a certain number of hours in childcare setting.

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program offers a series of stackable certificates to meet Washington State requirements to work in a home daycare or child care center.

The Short Certificate adds two more classes and 8 more credits to the Initial Certificate. This education can qualify you to work as a lead teacher as long as you also are 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.

What does a childcare worker do?

What is the average salary?

$38,710 annually Links to an external site. in the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma area. Most childcare workers in King County earn at least $33,010.

Who can I contact with questions?

• New students, please visit our Zoom lobby (Links to an external site.) to talk with someone by video chat, or e-mail our advising department.
• For current students, please visit RTC's advising page (Links to an external site and look for the faculty counselor assigned to Early Childhood Education.

Overall Materials Needed:

1. Access to a functioning laptop or computer (you may use computers on the RTC campus)
2. Webcam (if your classes have video sessions)
3. Headset with microphone (if your classes have video sessions)
4. Working internet connection
5. School supplies ($20 for notebook, pens, and highlighters)

You must pass all courses with a 2.0 or higher to graduate.

 Financial Aid Eligibility Warning

This specific program is not eligible for federal financial aid because it is too short. Please talk to your adviser about different ways to pay for tuition.

Quarter 1 Classes

You study different ways to guide children and build positive relationships with their families. You also learn how to prepare healthy snacks, identify illnesses, and support families with information about nutrition and health.

Quarter 2 Classes

You learn how the brain develops from birth through childhood. This knowledge will help you understand children's behavior, create appropriate activities, and help them grow.

It's time to apply for graduation!