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Career Development Certificates

Achieve your goals!  Get the skills you need!

Community Education offers the following noncredit certificates to prepare students for employment or to be successful in college-level credit courses.

Below is a list of our most popular noncredit certificates. To view a complete list, please visit our online catalog.

 

ADVANCED Noncredit ESL - Cert of Competency

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4930.87 - English as a Second Language - Integrated

The Noncredit English as a Second Language (NESL) advanced certificate is designed for non-native English-speaking students who want to read, write, listen, and speak in English at the high-intermediate/advanced level. These skills provide academic, vocational, career, and life-skills pathways towards college credit classes to obtain a credit certificate or degree, and/or jobs that require higher-level English communication skills.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Advanced ESL will:

  • Demonstrate language proficiency skills in reading, writing, listening to, and speaking English at the Advanced ESL Certificate of Competency level.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency skills in grammatical contextsat the Advanced ESL Certificate of Competency level.
  • Demonstrateconversational and pronunciation proficiency skills at the Advanced ESL Certificate of Competency level.
 
Required Courses:  
NESL 7007  Introduction to English D
SP grade
NESL 7041 Conversations for Intermediate ESL
SP grade
In addition to the courses above, one additional course is required. Select one from the following courses:  
NESL 7005 Introduction to English C SP grade
NESL 7009 Bridge from Noncredit to Credit Course SP grade
NESL 551 Intermediate Grammar SP grade
NESL 552 Advanced Grammar SP grade
NESL 7060 ESL Instructional Lab SP grade

 

BASIC Noncredit ESL - CERT OF COMPETENCY

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4930.87 - English as a Second Language - Integrated

The Noncredit English as a Second Language (NESL) basic certificate is designed for non-native English-speaking students who want to read, write, listen, and speak in English at the high-beginning level. These skills provide academic, vocational, career, and life-skills pathways toward college credit classes to obtain a credit certificate or degree, and/or jobs that require higher-level English communication skills.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Basic ESL will:

  • Demonstrate language proficiency skills in reading, writing, listening to, and speaking English at the Basic ESL Certificate of Competency level.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency skills in grammatical contexts at the Basic ESL Certificate of Competency level.
  • Demonstrate conversational and pronunciation proficiency skills at the Basic ESL Certificate of Competency level.
 
Required Courses:  
NESL 7003 Introduction to English B SP grade
NESL 7040 Conversations for Beginning ESL SP grade
In addition to the courses above, one additional course is required. Select one from the following courses:  
NESL 7001 Introduction to English A SP grade
NESL 7020 Spanish Literacy SP grade
NESL 7000 Introduction to English: Pre-A SP grade
NESL 550 Fundamentals of Grammar SP grade
NESL 7060 ESL Instructional Lab SP grade

 

BASIC SKILLS - CERT OF COMPETENCY

Program Requirements:

 4930.60 - Elementary Education (Grades 1-8)

Obtaining a high school equivalency certificate is key to better jobs, higher educational goals, and stronger life skills. This Basic Skills Certificate is designed for students who need assistance in reaching high school reading, writing, and math levels. The Basic Skills Certificate is recommended for those who didn't finish school above the 8th grade or who need a refresher in order to complete the high school equivalency certificate. Courses for the certificate will introduce students to the writing process and to reading skills that build vocabulary and analytical skills. The math course will introduce basic math including how to apply math to real life problems and how to solve multiple step problems.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Basic Skills will:

  • Apply reading and writing skills to purposefully and creatively express thoughts and ideas.
  • Read and understand a wide range of literature and non-fictional texts.
  • Use standard grammar, spelling, punctuation, and editing rules.
  • Add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational numbers.
  • Solve multiple-step problems involving whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percent.
 
Required Courses:  
BASK 7011 Basic Math SP grade
BASK 7012 Basic Reading and Writing SP grade

 

Beginning Computer Skills - Cert of Completion

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 0514.00 - Office Technology/Office Computer Applications*

Digital literacy is no longer optional. Many entry-level jobs require basic computer skills. This requirement is not limited to careers in business, but is found across many industries. Just searching for and applying for jobs often requires some computer literacy. The Beginning Computer Skills Certificate will introduce the student to the basics of using a computer, email, Windows operating system, working with files, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and navigating the Internet. Job opportunities include, but are not limited to, the following: office clerk, customer service representative, sales associate, order clerk, hotel/motel desk clerk, and/or receptionist. 

The graduate of the Certificate of Completion in Beginning Computer Skills will:

  • Learn the basics of using a computer with the Windows operating system, computer terminology, and navigating the Internet.
  • Be introduced to the features of Microsoft Office products including Microsoft Word, basic email skills (using Outlook), Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Customize the desktop, organize files, transfer files and photos from one device to another, perform basic photo editing, use OneDrive services, use Windows Apps, such as weather, snipping tool, and more.
  • Identify what to look for when buying a computer.
 
Required Courses Hours: 110 - 130
VOCE 7100 Computers and You: Level 1 28 - 36
VOCE 7101 Computers and You: Level 2 28 - 36
VOCE 7108 Computer Skills Lab 40
VOCE 7109 Microsoft Windows 14 - 18
Plus one of the following courses:                                                                                  
 
VOCE 7103 Introduction to the Internet 14 - 18
VOCE 7110 Social Media 14 - 18
VOCE 7111 Email 14 - 18
Total Program Hours: 124 - 148

 

CAREER PREPARATION - CERT OF COMPLETION

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4930.12 - Job Seeking/Changing Skills

This noncredit certificate program provides basic academic skills and workforce readiness skills needed for employment. Students will obtain and maintain competitive integrated employment through development of career planning, interpersonal, and communication skills. Fundamental technology skills for job search will be provided. The noncredit certificate program is intended to align contemporary work readiness skills with opportunities for employment. 

The graduate of the Certificate of Completion in Career Preparation will:

  • identify marketable employment skills
  • develop job -related goals
 
Required Courses                                                                                                                     
    
WKPR 7000 Planning Your Next Job/Career 2-8 
WKPR 7001 Planning a Job Search 2-8
WKPR 7002  Impression Management 2-8
Total Program Hours:  6-24

 

COMMERCIAL TRUCK DRIVING - CERT OF CompLETION

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 0947.50 - Truck and Bus Driving*

A Certificate of Completion is awarded to students who perform 80% or higher on all course competency tests. The Commercial Truck Driving Certificate prepares students to take the knowledge test required to obtain a California Commercial Learner’s Permit and prepares students to take the behind the wheel test. Upon passing both of these California Department of Motor Vehicle (CA DMV) tests, students will qualify for a California Commercial Driver’s License, Class A or B required for an entry-level position in the trucking industry. 

 

The graduate of the Certificate of Completion in Commercial Truck Driving will:

  • Interpret U.S. Department of Transportation rules and regulations, safety, logs, and other legal issues that apply to trucking and transportation.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of commercial vehicle systems and operations.
  • Demonstrate how to safely operate equipment and to conduct routine preventive maintenance.
  • Demonstrate proficiency by obtaining a California Commercial Driver’s License – Class A or B.
 
Required Courses:  
VOCE 7800B Commercial Truck Driving: Preparation for the Learner’s Permit 56 - 64
VOCE 7801B Commercial Truck Driving: Behind-the-Wheel Training 75 - 85
Total Program Hours: 131 - 149 hours

 

Family Childcare License Preparation - Cert of Competency

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 1305.00 - Child Development/Early Care and Education*

This noncredit certificate of completion in Family Childcare License Preparation will prepare the student for the in-home family childcare licensing process by providing the required hours of instruction on regulatory aspects, development stages, nutrition, and safety. Upon completion, the student will need to complete the application process through Community Care Licensing with the Department of Social Services. Program completion does not ensure license approval.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Early Childhood Studies: Family Childcare License Preparation will:

  • Successfully apply for an in-home daycare license.
  • Understand and implement regulatory conditions for an in-home daycare service.
  • Understand the developmental needs of the infants, toddlers, and children being served.
  • Provide a safe and enriching environment for the children being served.
 
Required Courses:  
ECSN 7300 Family Childcare Business  9 - 15
ECSN 7301 Child Health and Safety 18 - 30
ECSN 7302 Developmental Needs of a Child 15 - 25
ECSN 7303 Infant and Toddler Care 12 - 20
ECSN 7304 Ethics and Business Contracts 15 - 25
Total Program Hours: 69 - 115

 

Green Landscaping and Gardening - Cert of Competency

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 0109.00 - Horticulture*

Green Landscaping and Gardening combines discussion, demonstration, and interactive exercises to develop detailed skill set focused on resource conservation and pollution prevention in the landscape. The courses help professionals to make a landscape as efficient, functional, and beautiful as possible. Possible careers include: Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker or Supervisor.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Green Landscaping and Gardening will:

  • Demonstrate how routine maintenance practices can prevent or cause resource waste and pollution.
  • Demonstrate the basic landscape skills focused on resource conservation and pollution prevention.
  • Demonstrate how to communicate the importance and benefits of resource conservation and pollution prevention practices in the landscape to clients and the public.
  • Demonstrate how the diverse elements of landscape design and maintenance learned from previous courses and work experience connect together to conserve resources and prevent pollution.
  • Demonstrate the advanced landscape skills focused on resource conservation and pollution prevention.
 
Required Courses:  
VOCE 7622 Green Gardening: Beginning 25
VOCE 7623 Green Gardening: Advanced 25
Total Program Hours: 50

 

INCOME TAX PREPARATION - CERT OF COMPETENCY

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 0502.00 - Accounting*

The Income Tax Preparation Noncredit Certificate of Competency prepares students for entry-level positions in the tax preparation field or to transition into the credit business accounting classes to pursue two-and-four-year degrees. Students learn basic tax concepts, terminology, and software needed to prepare simple federal/state income tax returns under the supervision of a qualified instructor and in coordination with the Tax Assistance Program of the Northern Santa Barbara County United Way. The IRS Basic Certificate and the Allan Hancock College Community Education Income Tax Preparation Noncredit Certificate of Competency are granted to those who complete all three courses and pass the IRS certificate exam. Math and computer competency are recommended. Students must enroll in all three courses and attend an orientation session.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Income Tax Preparation will:

  • Prepare basic federal and state income tax returns using applicable tax principles and tax law.
  • Utilize TaxSlayer software to accurately prepare federal and state income tax returns.
 
Required Courses:  
VOCE 7502 Introduction to Income Tax Preparation 19
VOCE 7503 Introduction to Income Tax Preparation Software 8
VOCE 7504 Income Tax Preparation Internship 40
Total Program Hours: 67

 

Introduction to Early Childhood Studies - CERT OF COMPETENCY

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 1305.00 - Child Development/Early Care and Education*

The Early Childhood Studies (ECS) noncredit certificate of competency will prepare the student to transition into the ECS credit program.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Early Childhood Studies: Introduction to Early Childhood Studies will:

  • Summarize important historical influences on the development of children.
  • Implement guidance and interaction strategies when working with children.
  • Implement curriculum and activities that support the value of play when working with children.
  • Apply observation strategies when working with children.
  • Identify and implement various assessment processes when working with children.
  • Enroll in Early Childhood Studies coursework upon completion of the certificate.
 
Required Courses  
ECSN 7310 History of Child Development 36 - 48
ECSN 7311 Guidance and Interaction 18 - 30
ECSN 7312 The Importance of Play 32 - 36
ECSN 7313 Observation Made Easy 36 - 48
ECSN 7314 Assessment and Delivery Systems 15 - 25
Total Program Hours 137 - 187

 

Microsoft OFFICE BASICS - Cert of completion

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 0514.00 - Office Technology/Office Computer Applications*

The Microsoft Office Basics Certificate will build proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, the most widely used productivity software on the market. This program prepares the student for office-related career positions and transition to a credit CBIS certificate or degree program as well as provide support to the student as a small business owner. The student will learn how to create letters, certificates, and flyers using Word, report and analyze data using Excel spreadsheets and charts, develop presentations for business, home, or volunteer use using PowerPoint, and create flyers, business cards, and calendars using Publisher. Skills in using productivity software (such as Microsoft Office) are often required to enter the job market. These software skills can also lead to higher paying middle-skills jobs.

The graduate of the Certificate of Completion in Microsoft Office Basics will:

  • Use Word to create professional quality letters, certificates, flyers, labels and more.
  • Learn the basics of Excel: creating spreadsheets, formulas, charts, and more.
  • Learn the basics of creating PowerPoint slide shows for business, home and volunteer use.
  • Create slides, and add pictures, animation, and music to presentations.
  • Learn the basics of Publisher to create flyers, tri-folds, business cards, calendars, cards, envelopes and labels for business, volunteer, or home use.
 
Required Courses:  
VOCE 7105 Intro to Microsoft Word 28 - 36
VOE 7107 Intro to Microsoft Excel 28 - 36
VOCE 7108 Computer Skills Lab 40
VOCE 7112 Intro to Microsoft PowerPoint 14 - 18
VOCE 7113 Intro to Microsoft Publisher 14 - 18
Total Program Hours: 124 - 148

 

Secondary Education/High School Equivalency Exam Preparation - Cert of Competency

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4930.62 - Secondary Education (Grades 9-12) and G.E.D.

Obtaining a High School Equivalency Certificate is key to higher educational goals, better jobs, and stronger life skills. This Secondary Education/High School Equivalency Exam Preparation Certificate will enable students to pass the four subject areas of the high school exam: Language Arts, Reading/Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The Computer Skills class will introduce students to functions needed to respond to all question types on the exam, word process, keyboard, and navigate online websites. Additionally, students will learn effective test-taking strategies, college readiness skills, life skills, and be better prepared for work.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Secondary Education/High School Equivalency Exam Preparation will:

  • Apply the skills and knowledge necessary to pass any or all of the four content areas of the high school equivalency exam tests: Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Science.
  • Apply Effective Test Taking Strategies and Methods.
  • Think critically about issues and distinguish between supported and unsupported arguments in a variety of texts.
  • Apply mathematics to solve real life problems using mathematical modeling and problem-solving techniques.
  • Utilize the computer skills needed to respond to all question types on the exams, word process, keyboard, and learn to navigate online websites and resources.
 
Required Courses:  
BASK 7005 High School Equivalency Exam Preparation 96 - 108
BASK 7013 High School Equivalency Exam Prep: Computer Skills 16 - 34
Total Program Hours: 112 - 142

 

Vocational ESL Family Childcare License Preparation- Cert of Competency

English language learners at the noncredit ESL C/D level are required to enroll concurrently in VOCE and VESL courses. Ten courses are required to obtain the Certificate of Competency. 

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4931.00 - Vocational ESL*

This noncredit certificate of competency in Family Childcare License Preparation will prepare the English language learner for the in-home family childcare licensing process by providing the required hours of instruction on regulatory aspects, development stages, nutrition, and safety. Upon completion, the student will have the reading, writing and speaking competencies needed to complete the application process through Community Care Licensing with the Department of Social Services. Program completion does not ensure license approval.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Early Childhood Studies: Vocational ESL Family Childcare License Preparation will:

  • Successfully use their knowledge/acquisition of the English language to apply for an in-home daycare license.
  • Read, understand, and explain the regulatory conditions for an in-home daycare service.
  • Read, understand, and explain text that covers the developmental needs of the infants, toddlers, and children being served.
  • Successfully communicate with parents and guardians in writing or orally in order to provide a safe and enriching environment for the children being served.
English language learners at the noncredit ESL C/D level are required to enroll concurrently in VOCE and VESL courses. For example, VESL 7300 must be taken concurrently with ECSN 7300.
Required Courses:  
VESL 7300 Family Childcare Business 9 - 15
VESL 7301 Child Health and Safety 18 - 30
VESL 7302 Developmental Needs of Children 15 - 25
VESL 7303  Infant and Toddler Care 12 - 20
VESL 7304 Ethics and Business Contracts 15 - 25
Total Program Hours: 138 - 230

 

Vocational ESL Introduction to Early Childhood Studies -Cert of Competency

English language learners at the noncredit ESL C/D level are required to enroll concurrently in VOCE and VESL courses. Ten courses are required to obtain the Certificate of Competency.

Program Requirements:

TOP Code: 4931.00 - Vocational ESL*

This VESL Introduction to Early Childhood Studies (ECS) certificate of competency is designed to prepare noncredit students more quickly for success in the credit level. Students will master the basic skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening while simultaneously completing the noncredit certificate series of five academic ECS courses. Upon completion, the students will have the reading, writing, and speaking competencies needed to be better prepared for work in the ECS professions and/or credit coursework. It is designed for students who have successfully completed or demonstrated competency at the high-intermediate/low-advanced ESL levels. Career opportunities include: child care workers, preschool teachers, teacher assistants/aides, special education teachers, preschool and childcare center directors, and more.

The graduate of the Certificate of Competency in Early Childhood Studies: Vocational ESL Introduction to Early Childhood Studies will:

  • Successfully use their knowledge/acquisition of the English language to summarize important historical influences on the development of children.
  • Successfully use their knowledge/acquisition of the English language to implement guidance and interaction strategies when working with children.
  • Read, understand, and explain how to implement curriculum and activities that support the value of play when working with children.
  • Read, understand, and explain how to apply observation strategies when working with children.
  • Read, understand, and explain how to implement various assessment processes when working with children.
  • Successfully use their knowledge/acquisition of the English language to enroll in Early Childhood Studies coursework upon completion of the certificate.
English language learners at the noncredit ESL C/D level are required to enroll concurrently in VOCE and VESL courses. For example, VESL 7310 must be taken concurrently with ECSN 7310.
Required Courses  
VESL 7310 History of Child Development 36 - 48

VESL 7311 Guidance and Interaction

18 - 30
VESL 7312 The Importance of Play 32 - 36
VESL 7313 Observation Made Easy 36 - 48
VESL 7314 Assessment & Delivery Systems 15 - 25
Total Program Hours: 274 - 374