— Mayland Community College is expanding its academic offerings with the launch of two timely certificate programs: the Early Childhood Preschool Certificate and the Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) Certificate. Both programs address urgent community needs by preparing students for in-demand careers that support children and families.
The Early Childhood Preschool Certificate provides essential training for those interested in working in preschools, childcare centers, or starting a home daycare. Offered 100% online and designed to be completed in less than a year, this credential is required to teach in preschool settings across North Carolina. Students gain knowledge in child development, safety, health and nutrition, and activity planning — all skills needed to step immediately into the childcare workforce.
“Families across our region are in need of quality childcare,” said Misti Silver, Human Services Program Coordinator/Instructor at Mayland Community College. “This certificate gives students a fast, flexible way to step into these essential roles while also helping our communities address the shortage of qualified providers.”
In addition, Mayland is introducing the Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) Certificate offered 100% online, making the college one of only a handful of community colleges in the nation to offer this innovative program. Developed under the Zero Abuse Project, CAST is a nationally recognized, evidence-based curriculum that prepares students to recognize, react to, and respond effectively to child maltreatment.
The initiative to bring CAST to Mayland was spearheaded by Silver, whose vision and leadership positioned the college among a small group of institutions nationally offering this advanced training.
CAST provides specialized training that benefits professionals across fields such as child protection, social services, law enforcement, education, and healthcare — anywhere practitioners may encounter children at risk. The certificate also connects to Mayland’s Human Services AAS degree, offering students the option to continue their education while building on these skills.
“CAST training is critical at a time when child maltreatment cases are on the rise,” said Silver. “By preparing a workforce that is trauma-informed and better equipped to respond, we’re helping build stronger, safer communities for children and families.”
The CAST curriculum emphasizes real–world application, skill development, and multidisciplinary collaboration, connecting Mayland students to a growing network of over 90 colleges and universities in 30 states offering CAST.
About CAST
CAST was established in 2004 and is currently implemented in over 90 academic programs nationwide. Through partnerships with the Zero Abuse Project, Mayland students will gain access to approved instructors, materials, and resources that prepare them for impactful careers in child advocacy and human services. For more information about CAST nationally, visit zeroabuseproject.org/CAST.
Enrollment Information
Enrollment is now open for both the Early Childhood Preschool Certificate and the Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) Certificate.
- Early Childhood Preschool Certificate: mayland.info/early-childhood
- Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) Certificate: mayland.info/cast
- Or call 828.766.1234.
