Start Your Journey to a Career as a Daycare Teacher or a Preschool Teacher! 

NOCE’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certificate Program provides the beginning steps to prepare for your new career. If you enjoy being around children and helping little kids learn and grow, enroll today! 

A photo of a smiling NOCE student holding up her paper mache butterfly.

The Early Childhood Education Program from North Orange Continuing Education offers four certificate options focusing on childcare, educational support, and the management of childcare programs in a variety of private facilities. Complete the program to earn a certificate and begin your childcare career.

What You’ll Learn

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NOCE’s programs can put you on the path to exciting new career opportunities and more earning potential.  Get started today!

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Early childhood educators play an important role in a child’s growth. They guide children through activities developed to improve social, physical, and mental well-being skills. What children learn and experience during their early years can shape who they grow up to be in this world. You’ll get the training to become a caregiver, teacher’s assistant, teacher, or director in a private licensed preschool center or home-based daycare center.

Careers Highlights and Opportunities

  • English language – reading, writing, and speaking skills usually at or above an ESL (English as a Second Language) Intermediate High level
  • Speaking – Talking to others 
  • Instructing – Teaching others how to do something 
  • Active Listening – Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions 
  • Infant/Toddler Caregiver
  • Preschool Teacher Assistant
  • Preschool Teacher
  • Infant Care Teacher
  • Preschool Director

Frequently Asked Questions 

  • What do I receive when finished and how long does it take?

    Students who complete the Early Childhood Education program receive a certificate. The program can be completed in as little as 8 months.

  • How much does it cost?

    The Early Childhood Education courses are tuition-free. However, students are responsible for covering the cost of textbooks, software, course supplies, and a parking pass.  Your course instructor(s) will provide an estimate for the cost of required textbooks, software, and course supplies during your first course meeting.

  • What are the jobs and how much do they pay in California?

    Career opportunities include positions such as preschool teacher, assistant teacher, infant teacher/caregiver, and preschool director. 

    • Average Hourly Wage for Infant Teacher: $20.00 to $22.00
    • Average Hourly Wage for Preschool Assistant Teacher: $22.00 to $24.00
    • Average Hourly Wage for Preschool Teacher: $24.00 to $26.00
    • Average Hourly Wage for Preschool Director: $26.00 to $31.00

    Note: Salary and employment outlook is for Orange County, CA, and will vary depending on skill, experience, employer, and geographic location.   

Headshot of Caroline Llaban
I am a disability support services student, but I also had goals to work in childcare. I was accepted into the College to Career Program and worked hard to earn an Early Childhood Education Certificate at NOCE. I was able to balance both of my DSS and Early Childhood Education Program classes with the help of the staff, my teachers, and counselors. I am happy that I was able to find a job in a childcare facility after I completed my ECE certificate! Caroline Llaban
CTE & DSS Program Graduate – Early Childhood Education Certificate