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UNIVERSITY COLLEGECAYMAN ISLANDS
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Early Childhood Education Diploma

The Diploma in Early Childhood Education at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) is designed to prepare aspiring educators with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively with young children. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and supervised practicum experiences, this program equips students with competencies in child development, inclusive education, play-based learning, and early STEM integration.

This diploma aligns with regional articulation standards (including UWI transfer options) and serves as a stepping stone toward further education or entry into the early childhood workforce.

Key Facts

Duration

2 academic years (part-time structure)

Credential Awarded

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Delivery Format

In-person coursework with supervised practicums

Minimum Credits Required

24

GPA Requirement

Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA for graduation

Entry Requirement

Formal acceptance into the UCCI Education Programme

Practicum Requirement

Two non-credit field placements (45 hours each) are mandatory

Degree Plan

Year 1 - Fall

  • ENG 98 – Foundation English (0 credits)
  • MAT 98 – Foundation Math (0 credits)
  • ECE 100 – Foundations of Early Childhood Education (UWI Transfer) (3 credits)
  • ECE 101 – Science of Early Childhood Development (3 credits)

Spring I

  • ENG 99 – Preparatory English (0 credits)
  • MAT 99 – Preparatory Mathematics (0 credits)
  • ECE 102 – Guiding Young Children (3 credits)

Summer I

  • ECE 206 – Health Safety and Nutrition (UWI Transfer) (3 credits)

Fall II

  • ECE 103 - Understanding & Implementing Play and Inquiry Based Learning (3 credits)
  • ECE 204 - Early Child Development for Social Change & Social Justice (3 credits)
  • ECE XXX – Field Practicum I (45 hours required) (0 credits)

Spring II

  • ECE 205 – Curriculum in Early Childhood/STEM (3 credits)
  • EDU 240 – Methods of Inclusion and Collaboration (3 credits)
  • ECE XXX – Field Practicum II (45 hours) (0 credits)

Core Courses

ECE 100

Foundations of Early Childhood Education (3 credits)

ECE 101

Science of Early Childhood Development (3 credits)

ECE 102

Guiding Young Children (3 credits)

ECE 103

Understanding & Implementing Play and Inquiry Based Learning (3 credits)

ECE 204

Early Child Development for Social Change & Social Justice (3 credits)

ECE 205

Curriculum in Early Childhood/STEM (3 credits)

ECE 206

Health, Safety, and Nutrition (3 credits)

EDU 240

Methods of Inclusion & Collaboration (3 credits)

ECE XXX

Field Practicum I (45 hours required)

ECE XXX

Field Practicum II (45 hours required)

Developmental Courses

If applicable:

  • ENG 98 – Foundation English (0 credits)
  • ENG 99 – Preparatory English (0 credits)
  • MAT 98 – Foundation Mathematics (0 credits)
  • MAT 99 – Preparatory Mathematics (0 credits)

Future Jobs & Salary Scales

Role: Plans and delivers age-appropriate learning activities, supports children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, and maintains a safe and nurturing learning environment.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $30,000–$38,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $40,000–$45,000 USD
  • Advanced: $50,000+ USD

Role: Supports lead teachers in early childhood settings by assisting with classroom activities, supervising children, preparing learning materials, and supporting individual learning needs.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $28,000–$35,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $36,000–$42,000 USD
  • Advanced: $45,000+ USD

Role: Provides daily care, learning support, and supervision for young children in preschool, daycare, or nursery environments while supporting early learning and development milestones.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $28,000–$35,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $36,000–$42,000 USD
  • Advanced: $45,000+ USD