Certificate In Early Childhood Care and Education

The Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education at the University for Development Studies is a starting point for anyone who wants to work with young children. It focuses on the care, learning and development of children in their early years, combining classroom study with practical ways of working with children. The programme sits in the Faculty of Education and is less competitive to enter than many degree-level courses.

What studying early childhood care and education is like

Programmes of this kind usually cover how children grow and learn from birth to about age eight, including their physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. You learn about children's health, safety and nutrition, how to plan play-based activities, and how to support children with different needs. Most programmes also include practical experience in settings such as nurseries, kindergartens and daycare centres, so you graduate with hands-on skills as well as knowledge.

How hard it is to get a place

This is one of the less competitive programmes at the university, so if your grades meet the general entry requirements for a certificate, you have a good chance of being offered a place. That does not mean everyone is accepted, so you should still check that your WASSCE results qualify. Cut-off points and aggregate numbers are not published here, but you can confirm your eligibility by applying or contacting the university.