Postgraduate Diploma in
Early Learning and Care
The Postgraduate Diploma in Early Learning and Care is a one-year program that will equip students with professional knowledge and skills to contextualize early childhood development that respects Philippine culture. The program aims to develop professionals who can use reflective and respectful practices to promote nurturing, inclusive, and safe learning environments.
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate critical and analytical thinking to inform reflective and responsive practices and communication.
- Show cultural awareness through respectful and professional practices.
- Adopt and foster inclusive and safe learning environments to promote holistic growth and development.
- Demonstrate basic knowledge of the early childhood learning programs in the Philippines, both historically and in contemporary society.
- Use respectful relationships and practices to advocate for children in the context of family and community.
- Discuss ways in which indigenous language, culture, values, and beliefs may be reflected within early learning programs.
Key Competencies Developed:
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to develop the following key competencies:
- Reflective and Analytical Thinking:Â Apply critical and reflective thinking to inform professional decisions and practices in early learning and care.
- Cultural Responsiveness: Integrate cultural awareness and sensitivity in professional interactions and curriculum design, ensuring respect for Philippine and indigenous cultures.
- Inclusive Practice:Â Create and sustain inclusive, equitable, and safe learning environments that support the diverse needs of children and families.
- Knowledge of Early Childhood Systems: Demonstrate an understanding of the historical, philosophical, and policy foundations of early learning programs in the Philippines.
- Advocacy and Collaboration: Build respectful relationships with families, communities, and institutions to advocate for children’s rights and holistic development.
- Integration of Indigenous Knowledge and Values: Reflect indigenous language, culture, and beliefs within early learning programs in ways that enrich children’s learning experiences.
These competencies can be assessed through a variety of methods, including the following:
- Reflective journals and portfolios
- Case studies and situational analyses
- Observation reports and practicum evaluations
- Research papers or policy analyses
- Lesson or program plan development
Oral presentations and interviews
Potential Careers
The Postgraduate Diploma in Early Learning and Care program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership and practitioner roles in early learning and care settings. Potential career paths include the following:
- Early Childhood Educator or Program Teacher
- Early Learning Center Coordinator or Administrator
- Child Development Specialist
- Family and Community Engagement Officer
- Program Developer or Curriculum Specialist
- Early Childhood Policy or Advocacy Officer
- Trainer or Mentor in Early Childhood Care and Education Programs
Graduates may work in schools, child development centers, NGOs, community-based programs, and government or private institutions focused on child development and family welfare.
CURRICULUM SUMMARY
Courses | Units |
Specialization Courses | 18 |
ELC 201 Perspectives on Child Growth and Development ELC 202 Child Rearing Practices in the Philippines ELC 203 Guiding Relationships ELC 204 Designing Dynamic Environments for Young Children ELC 205 Inclusive Child Care ELC 206 Introduction to Indigenous People | |
Practicum | 3 |
ELC 207 Reflective Practice | |
Total Number of Units | 21 |
