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Early Childhood Education – Advanced

Certificate

Complete the Early Childhood Education - Advanced Certificate on your way to earning an associate in applied science degree. With this training you will qualify in Illinois as an early childhood teacher in a private or non-profit program.

See Catalog for Program Details

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support in the ICC Academic Support Center

While earning the Early Childhood Education – Advanced Certificate, you will enjoy next-level teacher education training that includes field practices in teaching and learning, learn how to document developmental progress, and round out your preparation with general education skills.

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A Quality Education

Completing this certificate qualifies the student for an Illinois Gateways level 3 ECE Credential.

Get Involved

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.

Career Opportunities

Early Childhood Teacher, Teacher Assistant, Professional Nanny or Caregiver

COMPLETION TIME

24 Months

if Full Time

3 Semesters
30 Total Credit Hours

What if I attend part-time?

Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.

ESTIMATED COST

$4,650

+ supplies & fees

Based on 2023-24

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

Andrea Walton

ICC Class of 2002 (General Education) Transferred to Eastern Illinois University English Instructor, Illinois Central College Tell us about the career path that led you to your current job. While at Eastern Illinois University, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Literary Studies. My sole motivation for earning these degrees rested in my…

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John Knapp

ICC Class of 1992 (Fire Science) Fire Chief, East Peoria Fire Department Tell us about the career path that led you to your current job. I started my career within months of graduating from ICC and completed a Bachelor of Science at Southern Illinois University a few years later. My career path has always focused on the fire service and ICC…

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A Hidden Gem of CTE Programs: ICC Interpreter Preparation

At Illinois Central College, we honored students for their achievements and accomplishments during February’s National CTE (Career and Technical Education) Month. When thinking of CTE programs, we tend to think of hands-on programs like welding or health care-related. However, another important CTE program where professionals use their hands to make a difference is Interpreter Preparation. And when you think about…

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Local Student Embraces His Indigenous Roots at ICC

This spring, sophomore Nathaniel Parks turned his tassel and celebrated his graduation from ICC. A few short years ago, however, he had no desire to attend ICC. Little did he know, his two years at ICC would be filled with reflection, self-discovery, and growth. While the Bartonville native may be a local, his roots run far and wide. Nathaniel Parks’…

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Everyone is a creative thinker when they have a chance to unlock their potential.
Andrianna Smyrniotis, Professor and Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator

Let’s Get Started ▸

How Do I Get Into the Early Childhood Education – Advanced Program?

You are ready for the next level of responsibility and credential as an Early Childhood Education professional. Talk to an Admissions representative 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 600 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 – Advanced 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 Associate of Applied Science degree.

Illinois Central College:
The Smart Choice

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How Am I Going to Manage This?

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!

Learn more about academic support
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.

Unsure? Explore Career Coach

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Admissions

Phone: (309) 694-5200
[email protected]
Administrative Building
L220C

Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm

Virtual Stretch Hours
Mon-Tue: 4:30 pm – 6pm