Early Childhood Education – Basic
Certificate
The Early Childhood Education - Basic Certificate prepares students for positions as assistant teachers in childcare centers. This certificate can be completed as a student works toward an Early Childhood Education Associate in Applied Science degree.
700
Scholarships available – and one might have your name on it
The ability to guide learning of young children using play-based strategies is the ‘gold standard’ of teaching according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The Basic Certificate offers you a strong foundation of knowledge in early childhood education so you can be an effective assistant teacher.
Admissions Office
Completing this certificate qualifies the student for an Illinois Gateways level 2 ECE Credential.
Students get experience at the ICC Children’s Center, which is accredited at the highest levels and serves as a “gold standard” for teacher candidates.
Childcare Worker, Assistant Teacher, Professional Nanny or Caregiver
COMPLETION TIME
12 Months
if Full Time
2 Semesters18 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$2,880
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
What we do is more than ‘just’ play. We facilitate learning, even in infants and toddlers.
Andrianna Smyrniotis, Professor, Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator
How Do I Get Into the Early Childhood Education – Basic Program?
This certificate is your first step toward starting your career as an Early Childhood Education professional. Talk to Admissions representative today to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
- High school courses in English, communications, and child development are beneficial for this program.
- Previous childcare or babysitting experience is beneficial.
What Can I Expect As an Early Childhood Education – Basic Student?
- Observation and learning opportunities in a variety of childcare settings.
- Learn from experienced Early Childhood Education teachers.
- The demand for qualified and experienced childcare workers is only expected to grow.
- Build on this certificate and work toward completing the Early Childhood Education – Advanced Certificate.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.