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Certificate in Early Childhood Teacher Training

At Indiana Wesleyan University, we’re proud to offer an innovative Early Childhood Teacher Training undergraduate program designed for aspiring educators. This fully online program consists of seven meticulously curated courses, allowing you to embark on a comprehensive 12-month journey toward becoming an early childhood education expert. These courses are ideal for the early childhood education student eager for hands-on experience to learn how to provide the best childhood experience possible for any child.

Whether you’re looking to start your teaching career or enhance your educational qualifications, our program provides flexibility, support, and in-depth knowledge you need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of early childhood education.

Why Pursue My Early Childhood Teacher Training Certificate at IWU?

Our online Early Childhood Teacher Training program at Indiana Wesleyan University is specifically designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in early childhood education. Tuition rates are locked in on your start date, so you never have to worry about tuition increases while you study through IWU. Over the course of 12 months, you will dive into the understanding of childhood development, exploring the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional growth of children from birth through the primary years. Our expert, Christian faculty teach through the same biblical worldview found on our main campus, so that students can implement these principles in a fulfilling career. 

What Will I Learn in an Online Early Childhood Program?

You’ll learn to design engaging and effective curricula that meets the diverse needs of young learners and master classroom management techniques to create a positive and productive learning environment. The integration of technology in teaching will open new doors for engaging young minds, enhancing learning outcomes. Finally, you’ll develop vital professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and leadership, all of which are fundamental for a successful career in education.

What Makes IWU Different?

Education Pioneer

IWU has provided education for more than 100 years.

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Tuition & Aid

21 Credit Hours

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$405/ Credit Hour

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Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement.

Financial Aid Tuition & Fees Info

Applicable fees for resources and services will be assessed throughout the program. Tuition and fees for prerequisites and required elective courses are in addition to the charges shown on the program cost sheet. Your tuition rate will remain the same as long as you remain continuously enrolled in the same program. The estimated cost of attendance is available on the financial aid webpage. Cost sheets may be requested from an enrollment counselor by calling 866.498.4968 or emailing iwuenroll@indwes.edu.

What You'll Study

Coursework for your early childhood teacher training covers how to:

  • Build practical knowledge needed for supporting child development
  • Create safe, effective and supportive learning environments
  • Develop positive, collaborative relationships that support and engage children and families
  • Design a content-rich curriculum for students that is developmentally appropriate
  • Integrate your faith in the coursework and your current or future classroom

Indiana Wesleyan University

Courses in this Program

These courses contain the program-specific knowledge. Upon completion, you should have the tools to conquer your new career with confidence. For a full list of courses and prerequisites required to complete your degree, please visit the course catalog. Click on a course below to view the description.

ECED-105,ECED-130,ECED-301,ECED-304,ECED-401,ECED-331,ECED-411

Program FAQs

Indiana Wesleyan University’s Early Childhood faculty include nationally recognized experts in literacy and early childhood development. Faculty such as Tina Shultz specialize in the Science of Reading, while Rita Gamble is an expert in dyslexia and reading intervention. Ann Gorbett holds a doctorate in Early Childhood Education and brings extensive academic and classroom experience. Faculty are located across the United States, providing diverse perspectives and current, research-based instruction.
Students can contact IWU’s Financial Aid Office by phone, email, or through their online student portal. Most inquiries receive a response within a few business days.
Nearly every course includes a field experience component, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real early childhood settings. This practical approach ensures graduates are job-ready and confident in working with children and families.
Students pursuing the licensure track are prepared to become K–3 teachers in public or private schools. Non-licensure pathways prepare students for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare center director, family support specialist, early childhood program administrator, and other positions supporting children from birth through third grade.
Students gain experience across key developmental stages, including infant/toddler, preschool, and primary education. Coursework focuses on child development, instructional strategies, and classroom management across these age groups.
Graduates pursuing licensure complete required state testing and become licensed teachers. Others pursue employment in early childhood settings, advance in their current roles, or continue their education in graduate programs.
All courses include field experience opportunities, and licensure students complete student teaching. These experiences provide essential hands-on training in real classroom environments.
Yes. The program is offered fully online, with the exception of required field experiences and student teaching, which are completed in person in approved local settings.
Most courses are completed in 6-week terms, while student teaching is a 14-week experience.
Students typically take one course at a time in a structured sequence, allowing them to focus on one subject while balancing work and family responsibilities.
Students progress independently through a structured course sequence.
Yes. Students connect through discussion boards, virtual meetings, and professional learning communities, allowing them to build relationships and share experiences.
Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format, meaning students complete work on their own schedule without required live sessions.
Students should plan to spend approximately 1–2 hours per day on coursework, including reading, assignments, and fieldwork.
Students follow a structured course sequence but may pause between courses if needed, working with an academic advisor to manage their schedule.
Program length varies depending on transfer credits and enrollment pace. Many students complete the program in approximately 2–4 years.
Yes. IWU offers multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin when it best fits their schedule.
After enrollment, students gain access to their online learning platform, course materials, and academic support resources. They are encouraged to connect with advisors and prepare for their first course.
Students have access to academic advising, tutoring, library resources, technical support, and career services to support their success.
Yes. Field experiences provide mentoring and professional development opportunities through interaction with faculty and experienced educators.
Yes. Field experiences function as internships and are completed in person in early childhood settings.
Transfer credit may be accepted from accredited institutions, with evaluation completed during the admissions process.
Students with a current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential may receive credit. Additional experience may be evaluated through Prior Learning Assessment.
Students complete performance-based assessments such as teacher work samples, digital portfolios, and recorded teaching sessions to demonstrate their skills.
IWU’s Early Childhood programs emphasize that early childhood education is both a profession and a calling. The Christ-centered approach prepares students to serve children and families with compassion, purpose, and excellence.
Students who are self-motivated, passionate about early childhood education, and committed to serving children and families thrive in this program.
The program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and aligned with high-quality standards. Students may also benefit from programs such as TEACH grants.
Yes. Christian faith is integrated throughout the program, including weekly devotions and opportunities to reflect on how faith informs teaching and service.
Yes. This program is designed for both paraprofessionals currently working in education and individuals transitioning into early childhood education careers.
The program focuses on practical, classroom-ready skills, including positive classroom management, developmentally appropriate teaching strategies, and instruction aligned with the Science of Reading.
Yes. Students learn hands-on instructional strategies that can be immediately applied in early childhood and elementary classroom settings.
In many cases, yes. However, requirements vary by school district or employer, so students should confirm eligibility with their principal, superintendent, or program director.

Program Requirements

  • Proof of standard high school diploma, GED certification, or country equivalent.
  • US based Candidates (requirements for international candidates will be evaluated on an individual basis):
    • Submit a signed FERPA Release Form.
    • Proof of up-to-date TB test.
    • A signed Field Placement Requirement Notification form.
    • Applicants who do not hold a valid license in the field of education will be required to submit a criminal history background check conducted at the applicant's expense. Admission to and/or progression in designated programs will be based upon criteria set in the Criminal History Background Check Admissions Policy.
    • Applicants should be aware that Indiana State Legislation has mandated that expanded background checks are required for those working with students in Indiana schools. Applicants will also be required to adhere to any additional State Mandates required for educators.
      • Though candidates will be required to submit an initial background check and other documentation that is acceptable to the university as part of their application materials, those successful submissions, will only serve to gain admittance to that academic program.
      • All accepted candidates should understand, that at the candidate’s expense, additional background checks, proof of mandated trainings, and/or health related documentation will most likely be required before participating in clinical experiences.

NOTE: Applicants need to be prepared to have vaccination records on hand, if requested by an outside facility, to prevent delay of any required Field Experiences. Since this is an “outside” of IWU request, it will be up to the student to be prepared.

  • Completion of the 21 credit hours with a grade of "C" or higher in each course.
  • Payment of all tuition and fees is required to receive a certificate.

Accreditation

  • Completion of the 21 credit hours with a grade of "C" or higher in each course.
  • Payment of all tuition and fees is required to receive a certificate.

Take the Next Step

Discover the way forward in your personal and professional life. Pursue your Early Childhood Training Teacher certificate online at IWU!

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