Child Development Preschool Teacher, Certificate
This program teaches the practical skills necessary to provide direct care to young children in day care and preschool centers, home daycare sites, and community-based centers. Students are prepared for employment as teachers and child care assistants, as well as other entry-level positions in the child care field.
Because Prairie State College is an entitled institution, these courses can be used to meet Illinois Gateways Early Childhood Teacher credentials.
(According to the Department of Children and Family Service regulations, child care workers in Illinois must be at least 19 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED equivalency certificate).
What Can You Do with a Child Development Preschool Teacher Certificate?
With this certificate, you can work as a preschool teacher or early childhood educator,
responsible for planning and implementing engaging activities that promote cognitive,
social, and emotional development. You will create a nurturing classroom environment,
support children's individual needs, and collaborate with families to support each
child's early learning journey.
The demand for qualified preschool teachers remains strong as families prioritize
early childhood education and development. Graduates with this certificate can find
employment in preschools, daycare centers, Head Start programs, and other early childhood
settings. This role offers a rewarding career dedicated to shaping the foundational
skills and love of learning in young children, with opportunities for career advancement
in early childhood education.
Suggested Curriculum
This program teaches the practical skills necessary to provide direct care to young
children in day care and preschool centers, home day care sites, and community-based
centers. Students are prepared for employment as teachers and child care assistants,
and other entry-level positions in the child care field.
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ECED 103 Health, Safety, and Nutrition
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ECED 104 Introduction to Early Childhood Education
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ECED 115 Observation and Assessment of Young Children
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ECED 120 Child, Family, and Community
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ECED 130 Guidance and Classroom Management
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ECED 205 Language Arts for Children
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ECED 251 Curriculum Design for Early Childhood Programs
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ECED 299 Early Childhood Education Internship
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ED 101 Child Growth and Development
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ED 212 Exceptional Child
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ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900)
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MATH 112 General Education Mathematics (IAI: M1 904)
or -
MATH 115 General Education Statistics (M1 902)
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Gainful Employment Disclosures - 2026
For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions please click here: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/
Child Development Preschool Teacher (ECED.PRETCHR.TCE)
This program is designed to be completed in 18 months.
This program will cost $7,812 if completed within normal time. There may be additional costs for living expenses. These costs were accurate at the time of posting, but may have changed.
The Child Development Preschool Teacher certificate meets licensure requirements in Illinois.
Of the students who completed this program within normal time, the typical graduate leaves with $0 of debt.
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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