SAY “YES” TO CHILD’S PLAY

Prepare for a rewarding career in early childhood development and learn to care for the whole child.

The Early Childhood Development certificate program offers a practical and theoretical approach to child care. You’ll gain a thorough knowledge of the physical, emotional, social and cognitive development of children.

The 27-credit-hour program can be completed in as little as three semesters. Coursework ranges from growth and development, to guidance and classroom management, to science and math concepts.

Click here to see the curriculum

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    • Quick Facts

    GREAT START

    Perfect for those seeking to begin a career as a child care assistant.

    HANDS-ON

    Learn in the classroom and in the field.

    FAST-TRACK

    Complete the program in as little as two semesters.

    ACCREDITATION

    Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award Associate Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry.

    PROGRAM COST

    Total Program Tuition: 27 credits x $214 per credit = $5,778.*

    Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many TCL students attend for free. See more about paying for TCL.

    *Based on Fall 2022 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary; all subject to change.

    Kelli Boniecki

    WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

    “Employers know that when they hire our graduates, they are getting a highly qualified professional.”

    Kelli Boniecki

    Program Director

    FAQS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    The Career & Education Opportunities

    Graduates go to work in a variety of child care settings, including child care centers, preschools, Headstart programs, public schools, private kindergartens. Others choose to continue their education and pursue an associate degree at TCL.

    The S.C. annual mean wage for childcare workers is $23,120 according to 2021 reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earnings can increase substantially with time and experience. For example, child care directors have an annual mean wage of $50,340 in South Carolina.

    Is this program right for you?

    The program prepares students to provide quality care for young children and is designed for:

    • Full-time students preparing for a career in early childhood development.
    • Currently employed individuals pursuing a career change as a child care assistant.
    • Childcare teachers and administrators who want to expand their early childhood knowledge.
    • Parents who want to learn more about the growth and development of young children.

    Program Dean

    Laura Dukes

    Dean, Business and Industrial Technologies

    843-525-8235

    Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 14, Rm. 118

    Instructors

    Kelli Boniecki

    Early Care and Education Program Director

    843-525-8307

    Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 2, Rm. 246

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