Level VII: Master's and Doctoral Degree
A person at Level VII has an advanced degree such as a masters or doctoral in early childhood or a closely related field. They may or may not be providing direct care and education to children.
Education and Training
- Infant and child CPR certification (see glossary for definition) and First Aid if working directly with children.
- Completion of masters or doctoral degree program in early childhood education or a
closely related field with graduate level course work in the Specialty Areas of
Education (refer to glossary) including an extended knowledge in the following areas:
- Theories of child growth and development,
- Theories of early childhood education and curriculum,
- Research in the specialty areas (refer to glossary),
- Current issues and perspectives of early childhood education including diversity,
culture, language and families,
- Assessment of children, curriculum, programs and caregivers,
- Interdisciplinary fields affecting children, families and the early childhood education
profession
Professional Commitment
- At least four years of experience promoting the development of other practitioners.
- Serve as a mentor and educator to others in the field.
- Membership in a recognized professional organization.
- Attend a minimum of six hours of training at a regional, state or national professional
development conference.
- Demonstration of professional leadership is required and recognized.
Renewal Requirements (every three years)
- Maintain infant and child CPR certification and First Aid training, if working with children.
- Completion of continuing education that positively contributes to ongoing professional
development in the field.
- Maintain membership in a recognized professional organization.
- Attend a minimum of six hours of training at a regional, state or national professional
development conference.
- Demonstrated leadership and/or instruction that positively contributes to the field of
early childhood or school-age care and education.
