Early Childhood Development: Diploma

Your next chapter…

Begin a rewarding career by becoming an early childhood development professional.

Program Description

The Early Childhood Development (ECD) diploma program offers a practical and theoretical approach to the study of child development. Students gain a thorough knowledge of developmentally appropriate learning environments, current teaching strategies, guidance practices, parent partnerships, and children’s needs, including those of exceptional children.

The 45-credit-hour Early Childhood Development Diploma program can be completed in as little as three semesters. Coursework ranges from guidance and classroom management to science and math concepts.

The program culminates with a semester-long supervised field experience that provides students with real-world, hands-on experience in child care settings across Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper.

Please note, this program does not lead to teacher licensure.

Accreditation & Accolades

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.

See the Curriculum →

Quick Facts

Quick Fact 1

Learn in the classroom and in the field.

Quick Fact 2

Program designed in preparing students for implementing quality pre-school programming.

Quick Fact 3

Complete the program in as little as three semesters.

What People Are Saying

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

Kelli Boniecki

FAQs & Additional Information

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What does this program cost?*

Tuition: 45 credits x $190 per credit = $8,550.

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.

*Based on Fall 2019 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary.

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 $20,370, according to 2017 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 $44,480.

Other Resources

Gainful Employment: Learn more about the Early Childhood Development Diploma.