The Certificate of Achievement for Special Needs Teaching fulfills the state requirements of coursework to work with children who have been identified with special needs in a Title 22 licensed early care and education program. In addition to these classroom opportunities, completers may also find employment in public health, occupational therapy, physical therapy, school districts, and other agencies that support children with special needs and their families.  The Certificate of achievement also consists of transfer classes and is part of stackable certificates and degrees at Ventura College.

Note: Internship requirements include proof of current negative TB test or chest x-ray and proof of immunity to measles and pertussis.  Influenza vaccinations, COVID vaccinations and booster are highly recommended. Live Scan may be required based on placement.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Begin to apply general knowledge of development in the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains from conception through early childhood, including knowledge about typical and atypical development.
  
  
• Begin to discuss and apply skills needed in intentional teaching consistent with developmentally appropriate practices.
• Begin to understand and apply legal requirements when working with children and families with special needs.
• Apply professional and ethical standards of behavior in the college classroom or workplace with children, families, colleagues, and coworkers.