Early childhood education or child development certificates include basic educational programs that introduce the student to the fundamentals of preschool practices. These diploma programs are typically relatively short in length and may be completed in as little as two semesters of full-time study. Classes taken for a certificate may include child development, activities or early education. Graduates are eligible for entry level positions in child development programs, preschools or child care centers. It is important to understand that a preschool or early childhood education certificate is not equivalent to an instructional certification. Certifications include more advanced degrees and are necessary in most states for teacher licensure. A certificate is a basic level of education that can start the pre-K teacher's career in a beginning job title.
An associates program is typically a two-year degree that you can earn through a community or technical/vocational college. Pre-K teaching associates degrees fall under the early childhood or child development areas of study. Like a certificate degree, an associates degree does not lead to teacher certification and may only qualify the holder to work in an entry level preschool position. Associates degrees for preschool teacher preparation require the student to complete course work in early childhood education, child development and human learning. Additionally, many schools require students to participate in internship or hands-on practicum requirements. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredits associates level programs around the country in 24 different states at 86 learning institutions. These programs meet NAEYC's standards for teacher preparation programs.
A bachelors level pre-K teaching degree can provide an early childhood educator with specialized knowledge as well as initial teacher certification. Many colleges and universities throughout the U.S. offer these four-year undergraduate degrees. Students can expect to take courses in general early education/child development, focused classes in specific areas such as literacy, early intervention or science for the young child, as well as general education requirements. General education requirements vary by school/program, but may include mathematics, English composition, science or humanities classes. Most bachelors level programs require students to complete a practicum or internship class along with theory based courses. Some, but not all, bachelors level degree programs will meet state standards for teacher licensure. Students can consult a school adviser to ask if their program results in eligibility for licensure or certification.
A masters or graduate level teaching degree can help the preschool educator advance in their career as well as gain focused knowledge on important field oriented subjects such as literacy, learning, social development and cultural issues in education. Although most states and schools do not require pre-K teachers to hold an advanced degree, graduate level training can be an important tool in finding an above entry level teaching job (e.g., master teacher or lead teacher). Graduate programs in early education often include general child development classes along with specific classes in a variety of educational and developmental aspects of the young child, research and writing classes. Many degree programs also offer an internship or practicum course. These hands-on programs may also lead to state teacher licensure or certification.