Earn your California-ready Associate Teacher Certificate online. This flexible, affordable program blends practical coursework with 150 hours of field experience, giving you the skills to support young children’s growth and learning, and the credentials to move forward in early childhood education.

Designed For

  • Preschool associate teachers seeking formal certification
  • Special education assistants working with young children
  • Public school employees supporting early learners
  • Childcare providers looking to obtain the Associate Teacher permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
  • Social workers engaging with children and families in educational contexts
  • Anyone passionate about supporting children ages 0–8

What You'll Learn

  • Understand how young children grow, learn, and develop
  • Create inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments
  • Design developmentally appropriate activities and curriculum
  • Build strong partnerships with families and communities
  • Promote health, safety, and wellness in early education settings

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

Application

Name
Early Childhood Education Associate Teacher
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