Early Childhood Care and Education Diploma (ECC2)
The Early Childhood Care and Education diploma program is a sequence of courses designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the field of early childhood education. The program emphasizes a combination of early childhood care and education theory and practical application, as well as limited basic skills competencies necessary for successful employment.
NOTE: To be employed in a child care center licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning, an individual must first complete a comprehensive background check with evidence of a satisfactory determination of the following: National fingerprint-based criminal history check; Georgia Child Abuse Registry; National Sex Offender Registry; and, a State fingerprint-based criminal history records check and State child abuse registry for every U.S. territory, tribal land, or state in which the person has resided in the past five (5) years. Students must have a comprehensive background check with evidence of a satisfactory determination from the above list in order to complete program requirements. The cost of these record checks are at the student's expense and must be completed before participation in a practicum or internship whether completing practicum or internship at a licensed Georgia child care center, private child care or public school.
Career Opportunities
Graduates have qualifications to be employed in early care and education settings. Graduates may find employment as private preschool teachers, household childcare workers, self-employed childcare providers, or Head Start assistants. (Bright from the Start recognizes this degree as equivalent to or greater than a CDA for employment.)
Credit Required for Graduation: Minimum of 53 credit hours
Curriculum
Basic Skills Courses
Occupational Courses