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Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

Bachelor's Degree Programme
(Part-time)

The programme is designed for early childhood educators working with children and families.

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

Applications may close earlier due to overwhelming response and successful applicants may be offered a reserved place for future intakes instead.

Overview

The early childhood education (ECE) scene in Singapore has rapidly evolved over the last decade. Increasing studies have affirmed and documented the importance of learning and development of children in the first 6 years of life, making early education an increasingly important component of a successful educational, social and family policy agenda in Singapore.

The need to raise the quality of preschool programmes through better teacher training have also been highlighted in recent government initiatives.

Students may pursue Early Childhood Education as a single major or in combination with a Minor.

Admission Requirements

Refer to general admission criteria for undergraduate programmes.

Additional specific requirements (any one of the qualifications listed below):

Currently employed as

  • L2 ECDA registered teacher on a full-time basis; AND
  • 21 years old and above

ONE of the following:

  • GCE 'A' level with two passes (prior to 2006) or two H2 passes (from 2006) with at least a Grade B4** in GCE 'O' Level English Language + ECDA (PQAC) accredited Diploma in Preschool Teaching or Early Childhood Care and Education (DPE-T/DECCE-T)*, or
  • Local 3-year Polytechnic Diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE)* with at least a Grade B4** in GCE 'O' Level English Language, or
  • Local 3-year Polytechnic Diploma (non-ECE) + ECDA (PQAC) accredited Diploma in Preschool Teaching or Early Childhood Care and Education (DPE-T/DECCE-T)* with at least a Grade B4** in GCE 'O' Level English Language

* NIEC qualifications included as of 2019.
** See ECDA's list of acceptable alternatives for GCE 'O' Level B4 in English Language.

In addition to the admission requirements for the programme, applicants will be evaluated on academic merit and/or relevant work experience. Interviews will be conducted for all shortlisted applicants to assess their suitability in terms of their motivation and ability to complete the programme. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo one or more interview(s) and/or take written admission or other evaluation tests.

Priority will be given to preschool teachers currently employed in the field.

All applications are considered individually and the offer of admission depends on the number of places available. Admission is solely within the discretion of Singapore University of Social Sciences.

Financial Assistance

There are also various types of financial aid available to students who need financial assistance. Please click here for more details.

In addition to the financial aid schemes available to all students from the Singapore University of Social Sciences, there are study awards/grants which are open to Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with Minor part-time students. They are as follows:

Click here to find out more on the scholarships from the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).

Programme Structure

Building on what the teachers already know in relation to the teaching and caring of young children, the programme includes a major subject combination that equips students with advanced knowledge in curriculum design and pedagogy in literacy, arts, mathematics and science for early childhood programmes.

Through the multi-disciplinary courses, learners will be able to critically evaluate their teaching practices and apply their understanding of young children's characteristics and needs to create environments and programmes that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging for all children.

The core and elective courses are selected to extend the range of professional knowledge and competencies of the early childhood professional across different disciplines and areas of study and will incorporate latest research-based evidence and practical application to enable students to stay relevant in an ever-changing and evolving ECE industry.

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

For Jul23 intake onwards:
Students are required to complete a total of 130 credit units (cu) to graduate with a basic degree.

The breakdown of the cu to be completed is:

All courses are 5 cu unless stated otherwise.

Please note that minor in management will not lead to ECDA certification for principal/centre leader positions. Those interested in centre leader qualifications should contact ECDA directly for information or look up https://www.ecda.gov.sg/Educators/Pages/Becoming-a-Centre-Leader.aspx.

The programme is designed for early childhood educators who are already ECDA-certified and working in the early childhood sector in Singapore.

Career opportunities in children and education related professions such as early childhood educators, curriculum specialists, enrichment programme specialists, managers, executives and entrepreneurs in children-related industries.

Testimonials

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