Early Childhood Professional

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Technical Diploma

Program Number:

303079

Credits:

24.00

Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start:

Fall

The Early Childhood Professional technical diploma provides the knowledge and experience necessary to truly make a difference in the lives of children. Hands-on fieldwork and related academic work will prepare you to work with children from birth through five years of age in a child care center setting. Start your child care teaching career with this credential, or continue your education with Western’s Early Childhood Education associate’s degree.

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Estimated Program Costs

Graduation Employment Stats

	Part Time	Full Time
Responding	1	0
Average Hours Per Week		40
Median Hourly Wage
Hourly Wage Range
Median Annual Salary

Program Outcomes

Living responsibly
Refining professionalism
Cultivating passion

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application

$30 Application Fee

Additional Requirements

To enroll in the Early Childhood Professional program, first apply for admission to the College, then read the program's Essential Functions, begin the background check process, and provide proof of your Health Record. You can find links to these documents below. Please see the details below.

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Additional Information

Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the document below:

Program Details

Program Contact

Tracy Craker
Program Chair, Early Childhood Education
608-789-6144
CrakerT@westerntc.edu

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.