Degrees and Certifications for Early Childhood Educators in Pennsylvania
In order to achieve our goal of improving educational quality, First Up engages with both professionals and the programs they work with to support the goals of degree attainment and reaching statewide or national accreditation standards.
Learn and Earn seeks to offer employed ECE professionals support and coaching that will allow them to attain an ECE associate (AA) or bachelor’s (BA) degree. First Up helps motivated participants and their programs with mentorship, coach selection and more in hybrid model that credits teachers for learning on-the-job as well as in the classroom.
Infant Toddler Proficiency Program
Infant Toddler Proficiency Certification serves as a steppingstone towards an associate degree, offering coursework worth 9 college credits upon matriculation and successful completion of a required course at the partnering college. It is offered in partnership with Community College of Philadelphia, Delaware County Community College and Esperanza College of Eastern University.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Degrees and Certifications
What Degree and Certification Opportunities Does First Up Offer for Early Childhood Educators?
First Up helps early childhood educators in Pennsylvania access degree, credential, pre-apprenticeship, and apprenticeship pathways that support long-term career growth. Opportunities include programs for professionals pursuing early childhood education credentials, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and specialized certificates.
Can I Earn a Degree While Working in Early Childhood Education?
Yes. First Up’s Learn and Earn Career Pathway Program is designed for employed early childhood professionals who want to continue their education while working. Participants can combine college coursework with on-the-job learning, coaching, mentorship, and professional development.
What Early Childhood Education Degrees Are Available Through Learn and Earn?
Learn and Earn includes pathways that can lead to an associate degree or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. The program also includes pre-apprenticeship options for individuals who are earlier in their education or career journey.
Does First Up Offer Support for Early Childhood Educators Who Are Not Ready for a Degree Program?
Yes. First Up offers multiple entry points for early childhood professionals with different educational backgrounds and career goals. Options can include pre-apprenticeship programs, credential pathways, professional learning, and specialized certificate programs.
Is There a Program for Educators Who Work With Infants and Toddlers?
Yes. First Up offers an Infant Toddler Proficiency Program for professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge and skills in infant and toddler care and education. First Up has partnered with Pennsylvania colleges to provide a transferable proficiency certificate pathway.
How Do First Up’s Degree and Certification Programs Support Early Childhood Workforce Development?
Degree and certification pathways help early childhood educators build professional skills, qualify for new responsibilities, and advance into leadership roles. By helping educators continue their education while remaining in the field, First Up supports the growth and stability of Pennsylvania’s early childhood workforce.
Who Should Explore First Up’s Degrees and Certifications Programs?
These opportunities are designed for early childhood educators, child care professionals, preschool teachers, Pre-K professionals, and others who want to advance their education or credentials while continuing to work in the early childhood field. Eligibility requirements vary by individual program.