Take the next step in your early childhood education career by building the skills needed to lead a high-quality childcare program. Designed for working ECE professionals, this certificate expands on your existing knowledge and prepares you for administrative and supervisory roles. You’ll learn how to guide and support staff, strengthen communication with families, and create a safe, engaging environment for children.

Grounded in current Community Care Licensing Title 22 and California Department of Education Title 5 regulations, the curriculum gives you a strong foundation in best practices and program operations. Whether you’re looking to move into leadership or deepen your expertise, this program helps you grow your impact—and your opportunities—in early childcare education.

Designed For

ECE professionals who wish to obtain a teaching and administrative position in a private or public childcare facility, who currently hold a Master Teacher Permit or higher.

What You'll Learn

  • Understand the roles and responsibilities of site administrators across private and public early childcare programs.

  • Develop a complete plan for launching and managing a quality, financially sustainable childcare program.

  • Apply all required state licensing regulations for operating an early childcare facility.

  • Use effective strategies for supervising, coaching, and mentoring staff, student teachers, parents, and volunteers.

  • Apply guidance techniques that support positive adult-child and peer relationships and healthy behavior development.

  • Establish and maintain health, nutrition, and safety standards within the early care environment.

  • Strengthen family engagement through effective communication and collaborative involvement strategies.

What You Can Do With This Certificate

Teaching and administrative positions are available in both private and public schools.

Earning the Certificate

Prior to enrolling, please ensure that you meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Hold a Master Teacher Permit or higher

Professional Licensure and Certification

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states' educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their states' requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Additional Details

Required fields are indicated by .