About the Early Childhood Associate Teacher Program
Students completing an Early Childhood Associate Teacher certificate are qualified to teach in a private child development program licensed under Title 22 of the Department of Social Services. It also fulfills the educational requirements for students seeking a California Child Development Permit Matrix at the Associate Teacher level issued by the California Commission of Teaching Credentialing. Students that desire to work in a early childhood setting are required to minimally complete these core classes.
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Program Paths
Early Childhood Associate Teacher
Certificate of Achievement
Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate the knowledge, skills and dispositions to meet the entry-level requirements for early childhood professionals working in programs regulated by the California Department of Social Services (Title 22). This certificate is designed to meet the Early Childhood Education course work which is one of the two requirements needed to qualify for the California Child Development Associate Teacher permit.
Resources and Transfer
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should meet with a counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken at SMC before applying to your designer colleges/universities.
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Early Childhood Lab School
Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica, in a unique partnership, have built an innovative early childhood laboratory school to serve the community while enabling teachers in-training to develop crucial expertise under the guidance of leading education professionals.
Transfers
Education and Early Childhood Education is a career education program that does not directly lead to transfer. Students planning to transfer should talk immediately with an Academic Counselor to discuss what SMC courses will help you transfer.