Early Childhood Professional
- Technical Diploma
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
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.
Program Outcomes
- Living responsibly
- Refining professionalism
- Cultivating passion
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Program Specific 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. The last step for admission to the program will be to complete an Intent to Enroll form. Please see the details below.
- Early Childhood Essential Functions [1]
- Early Childhood Health Record [2]
- Early Childhood DCF Background Check Request Form [3]
- Early Childhood Background Check [4]
- Contact the Welcome Center to make an appointment with an Admissions Coach to complete your Intent to Enroll form.
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 [5].
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 [6].
- 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 [7] 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 [8]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [9].
- 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 [10] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [11]! 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 [12]
Program Contact
Tracy Craker
Program Chair, Early Childhood Education
608-789-6144
CrakerT@westerntc.edu [13]
Career Pathways:
Early Childhood Professional
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [14] about what may apply to this program.
Certificates:
Technical Diploma:
Associate Degree:
Courses
The following list is not the official course list for this program. It is intended to give students an idea of what coursework will be required.
Current students should use the MyWestern [15] self-service portal when registering for class.