The Child Care (655.2) diploma program will change to Child Care (655.3) as of Fall 2010 semester. Students already enrolled in Child Care (655.2) may complete the current program or move to the Child Care (655.3) program. Students should discuss these options with their advisors.

ALLEGHENY, BOYCE, NORTH, SOUTH

Diploma (655.2)

This program is designed for individuals who desire entry-level positions in the area of child development by enrolling in specialized courses designed for working with infants, toddlers and school-age children. Students learn about the physical, emotional, social and psychological care of infants, toddlers and children. They learn the job responsibilities of all staff working in the field and identify suitable 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 for children and their families; and
• 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

Upon completion of the diploma, students can work as an aide in child care agencies or centers, pre-school programs, before and after school programs or private homes. Students are eligible to apply for the nationally awarded Child Development Associate (CDA) after completing the diploma.

Students can apply the credits earned in this 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 and the 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).

See the Checksheet for this program in printable PDF form.

Diploma Requirements

Minimum Credits to Graduate: 9

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