The Child Development program (623.3) will change to Child Development (623.4) as of Fall 2010 semester. Students already enrolled in Child Development program (623.3) may complete the current program or move to the Child Development program (623.4) program. Students should discuss these options with their advisors.

ALLEGHENY, BOYCE, NORTH, SOUTH  
Diploma (623.3)

This program is for individuals who desire only specialized courses designed for working with infants, toddlers, and school age children as well as for students who have a four-year degree but need courses to meet state certification requirements in early childhood education. Students receive specialized training in the physical, emotional, social, and psychological care of infants, toddlers and children. They learn the job responsibilities of professionals and identify suitable employment situations and career opportunities.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• integrate appropriate theories and practices, general and content knowledge and professional and pedagogical knowledge to create and implement developmentally appropriate experiences of children and their families;
• employ appropriate discipline terminology and professional tone in written and oral communication in descriptive and applied observation and documentation strategies to positively influence children's growth and development; and
• work with children of diverse ages and abilities and their families by participating in supervised practicum experiences in multiple types of inclusive child care and educational environments.

Students can apply the credits earned in the diploma program toward a certificate or associate's degree in Early Education and Child Development. Students must be eligible for clearances through the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check, the Federal Criminal History Record and Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Check. Additionally, if required by a field/practicum site, students will need to obtain the FBI Criminal History Record Check (ACT114).

Upon completion of this program, graduates may seek employment as a preschool teacher or as an early childhood educational aide and can work in child care agencies, day care, pre-school programs, public and private schools, before and after school programs or private homes.

See the Checksheet for this program in printable PDF form.

Diploma Requirements

Minimum Credits to Graduate: 16–18

Back To Top