The Master Teacher Certificate of Achievement is an academic and vocational training program that prepares students for future work as early childhood educators in diverse early childhood settings. The program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce prepared with skills necessary to effectively work in the field. Courses meet entry level requirements and/or meet the requirements needed to obtain a California Child Development Permit. The program is designed to prepare students with coursework as required by California licensing policies. Course completion with practicum experience can lead to a California Child Development Permit and employment. Coursework may apply toward lower division preparation requirements for students interested in transferring to a four-year college or university. 

Career/Transfer Opportunities: Completion of this certificate qualifies students to apply for the California Child Development Permit at the Master Teacher level. Upon successful completion of this program students will have the opportunity to gain entry level positions as a lead teacher or be a master teacher in private or publicly funded early childhood and after school programs. On the job training fulfills the requirement to attain a lead teaching position. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university and wishing to pursue careers in human development, child psychology, social work, and secondary education should see a counselor to develop an education plan.

Program Learning Outcomes

✔ Complete appropriate preparation for the Master Teacher Child Development Permit from the State of California.

✔ Demonstrate specialized curriculum for the early childhood education classroom.

✔ Identify and explain health, safety and nutritional needs of children in early childhood programs.