Early Childhood Studies
Diploma Program
The Early Childhood Studies diploma is designed to educate early childhood professionals in curriculum development, implementation, and classroom management. The courses in this diploma meet the DELACARE coursework licensing requirements for the Early Childhood Curriculum Coordinator and Early Childhood Teacher.
This diploma can be the first step in completing an Early Childhood Associates degree.
Offered at the following campus(es): Dover, Georgetown, Wilmington
What You Can Do
In this program, you will gain the knowledge and skills to prepare you for positions such as:
- Early Childhood Curriculum Coordinator
- Early Childhood Teacher
- Family Child Care Provider
What You Will Learn
Program Graduate Competencies
The Program Graduate Competencies listed below identify the major learning goals related to your specific program of study and identify the knowledge and skills you will have when you graduate to be successful in your chosen field.
- Implement developmentally appropriate practices based on theories, norms and milestones associated with development in early childhood.
- Employ communication skills necessary within the Early Childhood environment and network.
- Maintain a healthy, safe environment for children by following licensing requirements and legal issues affecting early childhood programs.
- Practice ethical and professional conduct required in the Early Childhood Education environment.
- Plan developmentally appropriate curriculum for quality infant/toddler, preschool and kindergarten programs.
Suggested Pathway to Graduation
Semester 1
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SSC 100 | First Year Seminar | 1 |
| ECE 111 | Childhood Nutrition and Safety | 3 |
| ECE 120 | Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood | 3 |
| ECE 121 | Infant & Toddler Methods & Lab | 4 |
| ENG 101 | Composition I | 3 |
| EDC 125 | Child Development | 3 |
Semester 2
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MAT 152 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 |
| ECE 123 | Early Childhood Methods I & Lab | 4 |
| ECE 127 | Childhood Classroom Management | 3 |
| ECE 125 | Early Childhood Methods II & Lab | 4 |
| EDC 108 | Applied Concepts in Educational Technology | 3 |
To complete program requirements, you must pass the above courses and earn at least 34 credits. The number of courses and credits required for graduation may be more depending on college readiness and the elective courses offered in your program major (if electives are a part of the program).
ECEDIPECS
This program is offered at the Dover, Georgetown and Wilmington campuses.