Pursuing Early Childhood Education: Degree, Diploma Or Certificate?

In order to work with young children in a licensed care facility, you will need some form of certification. Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs are offered at many colleges and universities, including distance learning providers, but there are many levels of education and certification to choose from.

Regardless of the level of education, all the programs begin with a foundation of child development, from infancy through young childhood. Various theories of child development are explored, though to what degree depends often on the school as well as the level of education being pursued.

Community colleges and distance learning providers often offer certificate programs, which are usually one year in duration. Two year programs leading to a diploma may also be provided at these schools as well as at some colleges and universities. Those wanting to earn a full degree in Early Childcare Education or Special Education will typically need to enrol in a university, often in a faculty of Child Development, Child and Youth Care or Education.

Some considerations when choosing what level of education to pursue include pay scale, with degrees being on the higher end of the scale, while certification may only enable you to work as a classroom assistant, rather than as a full teacher, with an according lower wage. Degree or diploma graduates will also have more freedom, and accompanying responsibilities for programming and independent teaching, while those with certification may be restricted to working in the classroom only when there is someone fully licensed present.

Distance learning providers and community colleges often offer the opportunity to upgrade, so you do have the option of graduating with a certificate, beginning to work in the field and then returning to school to upgrade your education at a later point.

Regardless of the level of education, there are stringent requirements when it comes to work experience, practicums and volunteer hours. It is vital to check with your local licensing board to ascertain these requirements, though local schools will also be familiar with what is needed.

If you are interested in specializing in the field or pursuing administration positions might consider earning a degree rather than a diploma or certificate.

By: Jon Ginsburg

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