University of Houston-Clear Lake

Certificate in Early Childhood

The 18-hour certificate in Early Intervention offered by the UHCL College of Education meets the foundational course requirements specific to Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education and is offered as a collaboration between the Early Childhood and Special Education programs. Early childhood intervention professionals work collaboratively with families and other service providers to support families and the development of young children with special needs within their everyday experiences. Focus of the course work emphasizes foundational knowledge on special education law, child development, collaborating with families, conducting developmental screenings and assessments, progress monitoring, service delivery and intervention pedagogy. This certificate may be of special interest to individuals majoring in early childhood, psychology and social work.

In order to be employed in the State of Texas as an Early Intervention Specialist, individuals must hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and have at least 18 hours of course credit relevant to specific to early childhood intervention and early childhood special education. With this foundation, individuals are eligible for employment where they will then, through Texas Health and Human Services, complete an ECI credentialing system.