About Us

Columbia Basin College is committed to preparing skilled and compassionate early childhood educators who serve the diverse communities of Eastern Washington. Educators play a vital role in shaping the future by nurturing curiosity, fostering growth, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning in every child.

Our Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs provide a strong foundation for working with young learners from birth through age eight. Whether you’re earning your first certificate, pursuing the AAS in ECE, or continuing into the BAS in Teacher Education for an Early Childhood (P–3) endorsement, CBC offers clear, supportive pathways to reach your goals.

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ECE Program Highlights

Certificate programs combine theory and practical experience with emphasis placed on active student involvement.
Coursework includes participation, observation and practical experience.
Students may enroll in any of our programs at the beginning of any quarter on either a full or part-time basis.
Most courses are offered in the evenings to accommodate the varied schedules of working students.

In Washington State, the professional development system supports early learning professionals in choosing educational pathways that fit their goals. CBC’s Early Childhood Education programs help you gain the skills, credentials, and confidence to inspire the next generation of learners.

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Career Opportunities

Early Childhood Educators have many rewarding career options—from working in child care centers to running their own family home programs.

CBC’s Early Childhood Education program aligns with Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) standards and the State Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Professionals. Students can progress through stackable certificates or complete the AAS in ECE, gaining skills that lead to new opportunities in early learning.

Possible career paths include:

• ECEAP or Head Start Assistant Teacher
• Family Home Child Care Operator
• Lead Teacher
• Child Care Center Director
• Paraeducator or Early Learning Program Coordinator

Graduates may continue into CBC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education (BAS-TE) for the Early Childhood (P–3) endorsement, or transfer to a four-year university for K–8 teacher certification.

For an overview of career paths and their education requirements in Washington State, visit the ECE Career site.

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Note for Students Located Outside of Washington State

Each state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. protectorates vary in what professions require licenses and the educational requirements for those licenses. It’s important to verify whether a CBC degree or certificate meets eligibility requirements where you plan to work.

View educational licensure requirements by state.
View the full list of impacted positions and their requirements.