School Age Professional Certification (SAPC)

Career Certificate Program (Program Code: 5373)

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Earn credentials and further your career as a licensed professional in aftercare settings.

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Program Overview

From afterschool programs to community organizations, today's child care environments need skilled leaders who can guide and inspire young learners. Palm Beach State College's School Age Profession Certification (SAPC) prepares you to step into this role, supporting children ages five years and up in their development. 

This certificate includes two-part training that equips afterschool providers with the tools they need: Part I: 40-hour School Age Certification and Part II: Foundations of Advancing Youth Development (AYD) Principles. For students who have already completed the required 40-hour training and the Foundations of AYD Principles, you can get started in the SAPC advanced coursework.

Through applied coursework, you'll learn proven strategies for assisting children's needs at every stage. You'll build the confidence to create and implement engaging afterschool programs that foster emotional, social and physical growth. By the end of the program, you'll be ready to make a positive impact on children from five to 12 years old. 

Program Details

  • Admission requirements: 
    • High school diploma or GED
    • Employed in a licensed child care setting or afterschool program
    • 40 Hour School-Age Certification and Foundations of Advancing Youth Development (AYD) certification.
    • See Course Catalog for full requirements.
  • Location: Live Online
  • Clock Hours: 120 (plus 480 hours of work experience)
  • Program Length: One semester
  • Cost: $121.20 for Florida residents, plus additional fees for books and course materials. View tuition details.
  • Financial aid and scholarships: Apply to the Prime Time Palm Beach County scholarship or explore other financial aid options.

program-icon  This program is part of the Education, Human Services, Social & Behavioral Science Pathway. Learn More.

Career Outlook

Afterschool and childcare settings need caring professionals who can support children's growth and development beyond the classroom. This Career Certificate Program (CCP) engages you in training and formal instruction to become the professional the field is looking for. With your certification, you can become an entry-level afterschool provider in licensed programs working with children ages five and up. You can build upon your expertise with future certificates and transition into roles aiding children development, such as teachers and teaching assistants.

Stackable Credentials

After completing the School Age Professional Certification program, you can:

Why Choose PBSC?

  • High Standards: Learn practices approved by the Department of Education.
  • Affordable Tuition: PBSC offers some of the lowest tuition rates in Florida, making a youth development education accessible to all.
  • Career-Ready Mindset: Learn from expert faculty and graduate with the skills employers need in today's child care.
  • Supportive Community: Access internships, industry networking and daily interaction with faculty dedicated to your success.

How to Apply

Take the Next Steps

Palm Beach State College's School Age Professional Certification program is your affordable, flexible and direct route to a rewarding career in a field that's shaping the future. Start your journey today!

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