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Education

FREE Early Childhood Certificate starts Fall 2025

Section titled “FREE Early Childhood Certificate starts Fall 2025”

Earn an 18-credit Early Childhood Education Certificate in just one year for FREE! Gain a solid foundation to advance in the rewarding, high-demand education field, thanks to partner support from the Southwest Initiative Foundation and Ridgewater College. This special cohort option is for those currently employed in child care centers, private preschools, Head Start programs, or family childcare.

2025-26 Schedule [PDF]

Minnesota Education Facts

Section titled “Minnesota Education Facts”

Teachers nurture others to grow to reach their potential. It’s their helping nature. According to a Minnesota Department of Education report, Minnesota currently faces a shortage of educators, especially in sciences, math, and small school districts. That shortage is expected to continue, so you feel that calling to educate, expect great job placement!

Source: www.mn.gov
Section titled “Source: www.mn.gov”

Ridgewater College’s Role

Section titled “Ridgewater College’s Role”

Ridgewater College is home to Minnesota’s original and most successful post-secondary training program for educational assistants in education or special education. If you strive to earn a bachelor’s degree to lead the classroom atmosphere, Ridgewater also offers a solid start. Complete your first two years of a four-year degree in either Early Childhood Education or Agricultural Science and Technology. Make a difference in young minds who so need positive role models like you!

Ridgewater offers a variety of degrees and certificates that will allow you to get started on a career education. A great educator will change lives for years to come. Begin your impact at Ridgewater College! You decide the path you want to take, we will help you get there. Not sure which direction to go, we can help you determine the right fit for you.