This course introduces participants to the developmentally appropriate use of assessment and observation tools. Participants will also learn strategies to support with documenting young children’s development and learning. This course will explore how to use the data collected to influence the environment, lesson plans and individualization needed. Multiple screening and assessment tools will be discussed, and students will also explore how screening tools are used in early childhood education to support the child, family, and teacher.
Number of Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours
Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for Multiple Subject credentialed teachers needing ECE units to teach TK.
University of San Diego – Graduate-Level Extension Credit Information
The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level extension credit(s) in semester hours through the Credit Validation Program. To earn units, participants must register for and successfully complete coursework through the external program provider.
Credits earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program are widely accepted by many school districts and universities across the United States for purposes such as license renewal, required professional development hours, short-term skill building, salary advancement, credentialing, and potential advanced degree pathways.
These units do not apply toward a master’s or higher degree program at the University of San Diego; however, they may be transferable to advanced degree programs (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at other institutions that accept external graduate-level credits.
Participants are responsible for confirming acceptance, transcript requirements, deadlines, and applicability of units with their employing district or intended institution prior to enrollment.
Directions to Enroll for Credit
Step 1: Register with the Partner Organization Complete your registration directly with the partner organization. Follow their instructions to begin the course and pay any required enrollment fees.
Please Note: USD does not provide course materials, manage instruction, or assign grades. All coursework is evaluated by the program’s instructor or coordinator.
Step 2: Register for University Credit After confirming your registration with the partner organization, return to USD’s website.
If this course displays Request Information, it means the course is either not yet open for enrollment (please check the enrollment dates) or enrollment has already closed. If enrollment has closed, you may still contact the organization directly to see if they will accept a late enrollment or if the course will be offered again in the future.
Step 3: Complete the Course Participate fully in the course through the partner organization and complete all required assignments, activities, and assessments.
Step 4: Partner Organization Submits Grades After you finish, the partner organization will submit your final grade to USD or you will be required to submit a certificate of completion to [email protected].
Step 5: Receive Your Transcript Once your grade has been processed, USD will issue an official transcript reflecting your earned credit. Transcripts are mailed to the address listed in your USD student account.
Transcript Process: Final grades submitted by the program provider will initiate the transcript process. Grades should be submitted within 7 days of the official course end date or the course enrollment deadline—whichever comes last. Participants are responsible for ensuring their mailing address is accurate and up to date in their USD student account to avoid delays in transcript delivery.
Transcript Delivery Timeline:
For detailed information regarding the University of San Diego Credit Validation Program, please consult our Participant Guide.
Prerequisites:
Students enrolling in this course must have successfully completed EDC-X711W, EDC-X712W, EDC-X713W, EDC-X714W, AND EDC-X715W; OR EDC-X724U, AND EDC-X725U; a bachelor’s degree, and California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
Audience: Currently credentialed Multiple Subject (Elementary) teachers seeking Early Childhood Education (ECE) units (SDCOE affiliation not required)
Refund Policy: All Credit Validation enrollments are refundable, less a $25 fee, if requested within 30 days of enrollment date. There will be no refunds for Credit Validation after the allotted 30 days.
Enrollment Open: February 22, 2026 – March 25, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Enrollment Open: July 5, 2026 – August 5, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
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The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education offers graduate-level extension credit for work completed in trainings, workshops, conferences, induction, credentials, and other professional development programs not offered directly by USD. Complete one of the above and a member of our division will help you earn credit for your hard work and dedication to continuing your education.
Earn credit for your previous work in trainings, workshops, and conferences through a simple process.
Save money by earning credit for work you completed and get one step closer to salary advancement.
Many receiving institutions may accept credits towards degree programs, giving you a head start in earning a graduate degree.
Learn practical skills from expert instructors to boost your resume or succeed in your current role.