Early Childhood Language Development Graduate Certificate

~ Starting Spring 2026 ~

Why Elms for Early Childhood Language Development?

• This is a new certificate program that will be offered to:
  • Early Intervention professionals seeking additional training in language development
  • Students in the MS in ABA, the Graduate Certificate in ABA, the Masters in Teaching, and Masters in Education programs, as electives.
• Ways to obtain this certificate:
• Stand-alone – For those who already have a Master’s degree and are looking for additional skills.
• Current Student – Those who are currently enrolled in a graduate program (MS-ABA, MSW, MEd, etc) at Elms can complete the certificate simultaneously as elective courses in their graduate program.
• New Applicant – Those who are applying to a graduate program (MS-ABA, MSW, MEd, etc) can also apply to the certificate program. Coursework will be included in your graduate program. Ask your admission counselor for more information.

Apply Today!

The Elms College Division of Education, in collaboration with the Social Sciences Division, has a new certificate in the Advanced Study of Early Childhood Language Development. This will be a 4-credit certificate that will prepare students to identify and improve the language skills of children with autism and delayed language development. This will meet the need for this training among ABA professionals and educators. Both courses will include an additional and optional one credit of work for those students seeking three credits towards a master’s degree.

Advanced Study in Early Childhood Language Development-I

This course provides an overview of the milestones and developmental processes involved in language acquisition from birth through age five. Students will explore how young children typically develop skills in language form, content, and use, alongside their growth in social interaction and play skills. Emphasis is placed on observing and analyzing communication behaviors in naturalistic settings. Topics include developmentally appropriate strategies for supporting early connection and communication, creating language-rich environments, and understanding the association between early language skills and emergent literacy. This course prepares students to support typical language development and serves as a foundation for the companion course on language delays and disorders. (2 credits)

Advanced Study in Early Childhood Language Development-II

This course focuses on the identification, assessment, and treatment of language delays and disorders in children from birth through age five. Students will examine the characteristics of language impairment and learn how to support emerging and developing communication through evidence-based, developmentally appropriate intervention practices.

Emphasis is placed on understanding the intervention process, from recognizing early signs and selecting appropriate goals to planning, implementing, and monitoring intervention. The course also highlights the critical role of families and caregivers in supporting language development and explores effective ways to engage them as partners in the therapeutic process. Designed as a follow-up to the course on typical language development, this course prepares students to support young children with or at risk for language disorders. (2 credits)

Contact:
Office of Graduate Admissions
grad@elms.edu