Early Childhood and Family Policy

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A child’s early years are critical for all areas of development. Access to high-quality and ongoing early childhood services is essential. Champion the causes of those who require advocacy through our online graduate certificate program.
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The online graduate certificate in early childhood and family policy is designed for those passionate about driving social change. Through four online 8-week courses, you will understand the links between childhood and family policies across various systems such as health care, education, family leave, mental health, child abuse and neglect, incarceration of parents, and minimum wage. Gain tools to champion equitable changes that accelerate the formulation of public and social policies affecting young children and their families domestically and internationally. The program emphasizes data understanding, critical thinking, and insights into the nuances of policy formulation and execution.


Degrees Offered:

  • Certificate
Online Degree Information

Gilda Figueroa

gpideainfo@iastate.edu
515-294-7471
Campus Coordinator
2624 Howe Hall

David Welshhons
Graduate Student Services Specialist
2624 Howe Hall
515-294-8789

Learning Goals

This online graduate certificate program benefits professionals working in the growing field of Early Childhood and Family Policy and open doors to diverse career growth opportunities in the following settings:

  • Local Government: City/County Offices or Commissions; Local Education Agencies or School Districts
  • State and Federal Government: Administrative Offices in Education, Human or Social Services, Health and Mental Health; Legislative/Congressional Offices; Judicial Offices; Social Service Agencies with Advocacy Departments
  • Non-Governmental Entities (local, state, federal): Early Childhood Professional Organizations; Foundations; Community, State and National Non-Profit Agencies and Think Tanks for Education, Health, Mental Health, Housing, and Legal Services
  • Organizations associated with the United Nations, World and Regional Banks
  • Other Organizations: Advocacy Agencies; University/Research-based Organizations

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

Application Deadlines: Rolling

Program Requires GRE: No

Program Requires GMAT : No

Transcript(s), resume, goal statement, and two letters of recommendation

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

International students should apply at least three months before the start of term they are applying.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions