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Early Childhood Director Certificate

NECC Home  /  Academics  /  Programs  /  Education  /  Early Childhood Director Certificate

An Early Childhood Director sitting at her desk.
Do you love children? Are you looking for a career where you can use your energy and passion to inspire them? Then NECC’s Early Childhood Director Certificate Program is for you! By enrolling in this unique nine-course program, you can look forward to a rewarding career in the field of early childhood education and care, helping children in various environments as they grow and develop.

Why Choose NECC?

NECC’s Early Childhood Director Certificate Program is a convenient and affordable option for anyone who is looking for a new career or seeking additional training in the field of early childhood education and care. Available in traditional, online, and competency-based education (CBE – a self-paced course structure) formats, the program provides you with the courses and training you need to become state-certified to work in childcare centers. Through this program, you can:

  • Learn about the skills that are critical to working and interacting with young children
  • Become qualified to apply for early childhood director certification through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
  • Participate in a practicum, allowing you to gain experience working with young children

Because of NECC

You will be prepared to work in the high-demand field of early childhood education and care and may advance on to any number of degree programs or career paths. Upon completion, you may choose to:

  • Pursue a job as a director at an area childcare facility
  • Transfer earned credits to an associate degree or bachelor’s degree
  • Qualify for other advanced career opportunities in the field of early childhood education and care

Program Costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, non-health for-credit courses have a cost of $263/credit for in-state students.

Career Paths & Job Market

Career Paths

Career Paths

Career Options

Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Program will be prepared to assume a professional role in the education of young children. Professional Career Opportunities as state certified Lead Teachers and/or child care center Directors (depending on the length of experience) are available for ECE Program graduates. State Certified Lead Teachers or Child Care Center Directors can receive more information via the Massachusetts Early Education & Care (EEC) website. Students who want to teach in public schools and/or who would like more information regarding Massachusetts licensing requirements can visit the Massachusetts Department of Education (DOE) website.

Program Pathway

A pathway is the most efficient sequence of courses semester-to-semester recommended for students to complete their degree. View the suggested pathway for the Early Childhood Director Certificate.

Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes - Early Childhood Director Certificate

Student Learning Outcomes – Early Childhood Director Certificate

  • Integrate knowledge of child growth and development when working with young children birth to age 8
  • Determine appropriate guidance techniques for interacting with young children
  • Develop methods to build respectful, reciprocal relationships with families and community agencies on behalf of young children
  • Plan a safe and healthy environment for young children according to state and national standards
  • Create learning environments and design curriculum based on developmentally appropriate practice
  • Compare and contrast observation techniques to support the assessment of young children
  • Develop cooperative and collaborative relationships with colleagues in early childhood settings to ensure quality programming
  • Examine ethical standards expected of early childhood educators to determine professional responsibilities to children, families, colleagues, and communities.

Courses, Requirements, and Program Notes

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Contact

Program Coordinator

Program Coordinator

Deirdre Budzyna, B.A., M.Ed., Program Coordinator

Office: C-300C, (Spurk Building, Haverhill)
Phone: 978-556-3456
Email: dbudzyna@necc.mass.edu

Director of Career Pathways in Early Childhood Education

Director of Career Pathways in Early Childhood Education

Doris L. Buckley, Ed.D., Director

Office: C-300-D, (Spurk Building, Haverhill)
Phone: 978-556-3374
Email: dbuckley@necc.mass.edu

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Contact Information

Deirdre Budzyna, B.A., M.Ed., Program Coordinator

Office: C-300C, (Spurk Building, Haverhill)
Phone: 978-556-3456
Email: dbudzyna@necc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty Contact Information

Adjunct Faculty Contact Information

Kathleen Bartolini

kbartolini@necc.mass.edu

Kirsten Kortz

kkortz@necc.mass.edu

Barbara Moverman

bmoverman@necc.mass.edu

Melanie Shipon

mshipon@necc.mass.edu

Office Hours

Please note: Office hours may change. If no office hours appear below use the contacts above to schedule an appointment.

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