Curricula for Level I and II

• Level I is the first step in the Northern Lights Career Ladder. Early childhood professionals reach Level I when they have successfully completed the course: Fundamentals for Early Childhood Professionals (or its equivalent) plus have one year of experience working directly with young children. Once you have completed these requirements, you can complete the application for a Level I certificate from Northern Lights Career Development Center.
• Level II is the second step in the Northern Lights Career Ladder. Early childhood professionals reach Level II when they have successfully completed Level I or its equivalent, and 90 total hours of (Level II) professional development (or equivalent) plus have a total of two years of experience working directly with young children. (If you earn a Child Development Associate Credential, you have also reached Level II in the Career Ladder.

Taking college credit courses also contributes to your moving up the Career Ladder. See the Career Advising Guide for further information.

You can view the full career ladder, I-VI here.