Early Childhood Education, Level 2 ECE Credential Certificate (723)

About Our Program

The field of early childhood education is filled with many exciting opportunities! At Highland Community College, we have a variety of pathways designed to support your professional growth. Whether you are interested in earning a Gateways Credential (http://www.ilgateways.com/en/credentials) or are planning to transfer to a four-year program, we have the courses and opportunities to meet your education and career needs. Our courses are designed around the following three Pathways: Direct Exit, Credential Continuing, and Credential Transfer.

The Direct Exit Pathway is designed for students who are in the field or seeking immediate employment and are pursuing Gateways Credentials to secure employment or progress within a current role. This pathway is designed with convenient on and off ramps – you can pursue a Level 2 Credential, for example, then later decide that you would like to attain your Level 3 Credential.

Each of our pathways is designed to support the attainment of Gateways Credentials. The Gateways Credential is recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services Bureau of Child Care and Development. Credentials are required for varied Circles of Quality in ExceleRate Illinois and can be used as a prerequisite for employment within early learning programs. To earn your Level 2 ECE Credential at Highland Community College, you are required to follow a prescribed course of study. Please be sure to contact the Coordinator of the ECE Program for further information about these credentials and required courses.

Nature of Work and Employment

Level 2 Credential Certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers. Family child care providers are encouraged to use this program to upgrade their own training and preparation. Our state and nation are currently facing a critical need for well-prepared early childhood practitioners. Employment is projected to grow 10% from 2016 to 2026 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook).

Special Considerations

Certificate students must demonstrate good physical and emotional health and submit to and pass a criminal background check. Students must take either Introduction to Early Childhood Education (ECE 121 Intro to Early Childhood Ed) or Child Growth and Development (ECE 122 Child Growth & Development) and earn a grade of “C” or better to proceed through the early childhood program. They must maintain a “C” or better in all early childhood courses to complete the certificate. A workplace experience is encouraged and may be made available.

Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Required ECE Courses
ECE 121	Intro to Early Childhood Ed	3
ECE 122	Child Growth & Development	3
ECE 123	Hlth,Safety,Nutrition Yng Chil ¹	3
ECE 125	Assessment in EC Settings ¹	3
ECE 202	Curriculum in EC Settings ¹	3
ECE 203	Home,Scl,ComRelations ECE ¹	3
Total Hours		18

¹: Course has a prerequisite. See course description.

Program Outcomes

Evaluate children’s unique developmental patterns, utilize assessments to inform instruction, and identify appropriate resources for those who may require further support.
Develop and implement teaching strategies, materials, and content to support varied learning styles and abilities, incorporating evidence-based practices such as universal design and children’s interests.
Create and maintain safe, healthy, and engaging environments that promote each child’s learning and development through inclusive practices and high-quality, responsive interactions that support their sense of belonging and well-being.
Interpret and utilize assessment data to guide instructional planning, adapt environments, and individualize learning experiences.
Demonstrate ethical standards, professional conduct, and effectively collaborate with colleagues, families, and community partners.
Advocate for the early childhood education profession and actively support families—including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds—through informed, respectful engagement and community-focused advocacy.
Implement high-quality, responsive learning experiences that align with children’s needs, feedback, and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards.

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