Early Childhood Development
The Early Childhood Development certificate covers the development of children from 2 to 8 years of age. Participants of this certificate program will explore key developmental milestones in early childhood, gaining insights into cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of growth. Coursework will cover developmentally appropriate interaction and curricular strategies specific to early childhood education. Participants will also learn about foundational topics related to educational psychology, diversity, assessment, research, and the role these matters play in the education of young children.
Who Should Enroll?
The Early Childhood Development Certificate was designed for the following individuals:
- Current educators who need to fulfill credential requirements that stipulate coursework specific to the development of young children (e.g., PK-3 Credential)
- Early childhood educators who are eager to enhance their skills and deepen their expertise
- Educators, caregivers, parents, and/or individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young children
Program Overview
- No prerequisites or prior degree required
- Earn a total of 24-units of academic credit (8 courses at 3 units each)
- Each course is 6 weeks in length (with the exception of summer courses, which are 5 weeks in length)
- The entire certificate program can be completed in one year (summer to summer)
- All courses are delivered in an online, asynchronous format
- The program follows a cohort model, so admitted students will begin the program together and advance through each course as a group
- Total cost of tuition is $7,680 ($1,920 per term)
- Financing available!
When Can I Start?
The Early Childhood Development Certificate is designed with educators' schedules in mind. The Program begins each Summer and goes on for one year to the following Summer.
Coursework begins with two courses in Summer Session II (5 weeks, July to August) and continues with two courses in the Fall semester (taken one at a time in back-to-back 5-week sessions), followed by two courses in the Spring semester (taken one at a time in back-to-back 5-week sessions), and concludes with two courses in Summer Session I (5 weeks, June to July).
See the Course Schedule and Dates section for specific start and end dates
How and When Do I Apply?
Interested individuals should apply using the green Apply button on the upper right-hand side of this page. You can also sign up to join the Interest List. Applications typically open from March through May of each year.
Questions about the Early Childhood Development Certificate Program or the application process can be sent to Dr. Lisa Looney (Program Coordinator) at lisa.looney@csusb.edu.
Meet The Team
Program Coordinator
Lisa Looney, Ph.D.
Lisa Looney, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Child Development and serves as the Program Coordinator for the ECD Certificate Program. Her research work includes examining development and behavior within educational contexts, with an emphasis on motivational constructs as they relate to teachers and students. While much of her research has focused on development, motivation, and self-processes of teachers in PK-12 settings, her areas of inquiry have also expanded to include examination of these constructs both within faculty at institutions of higher education and with parents. Dr. Looney received her Ph.D. from the University of Maryland in Human Development, specializing in Educational Psychology, and she earned a master’s degree in Child Development from Michigan State University.