About the Program
The Infant and Early Childhood Behavioral Health Certificate is designed for students preparing to work with children from birth through age six. The program strengthens students’ ability to respond to social-emotional and behavioral needs within early learning environments through real-time, trauma-informed coaching and relationship-based support strategies.
This fully online certificate aligns with the mission of the institution as a regional access leader by expanding flexible, stackable credentials that directly address community and workforce needs. It enhances the Inclusive Early Childhood Education (IECE) program and supports UCCS’s role in preparing practitioners who improve outcomes for children, families, and communities.
Focus of Study
The Infant and Early Childhood Behavioral Health Certificate emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices that support the social-emotional and behavioral development of children from birth through age six. Students examine early childhood mental health consultation, relationship-based interventions, and collaboration with families and professionals across early learning systems. The program focuses on promoting resilience, addressing the impact of stress and bias, and preventing exclusionary discipline through applied, practice-based learning aligned with workforce needs.
Program Requirements
To earn the Infant and Early Childhood Behavioral Health certificate, which CoAIMH endorses as an Early Childhood Family Specialist, complete the following IECE courses (required for the BA in IECE) and three additional Counseling courses from the Department of Counseling and Human Services for a total of 30 credit hours. The courses are all available online.
Additional Colorado state training requirements must be completed through CoAIMH to earn the certificate. Contact the IECE Faculty Director for more information.
