SAY “YES” TO CHILD’S PLAY
Prepare for a rewarding career in early childhood development and learn to care for the whole child.
The Early Childhood Development certificate program offers a practical and theoretical approach to child care. You’ll gain a thorough knowledge of the physical, emotional, social and cognitive development of children.
The 27-credit-hour program can be completed in as little as three semesters. Coursework ranges from growth and development, to guidance and classroom management, to science and math concepts.
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Quick Facts
GREAT START
Perfect for those seeking to begin a career as a child care assistant.
HANDS-ON
Learn in the classroom and in the field.
FAST-TRACK
Complete the program in as little as two semesters.
ACCREDITATION
Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
PROGRAM COST
Total Program Tuition: 27 credits x $214 per credit = $5,778.*
Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many TCL students attend for free. See more about paying for TCL.
*Based on Fall 2022 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary; all subject to change.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
“Employers know that when they hire our graduates, they are getting a highly qualified professional.”
Kelli Boniecki
Program Director
FAQS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Career & Education Opportunities
Graduates go to work in a variety of child care settings, including child care centers, preschools, Headstart programs, public schools, private kindergartens. Others choose to continue their education and pursue an associate degree at TCL.
The S.C. annual mean wage for childcare workers is $25,050 according to 2022 reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earnings can increase substantially with time and experience. For example, child care directors have an annual mean wage of $55,120 in South Carolina.
Is this program right for you?
The program prepares students to provide quality care for young children and is designed for:
• Full-time students preparing for a career in early childhood development.
• Currently employed individuals pursuing a career change as a child care assistant.
• Childcare teachers and administrators who want to expand their early childhood knowledge.
• Parents who want to learn more about the growth and development of young children.
Program Dean
Karen Smith
Dean, Business & Industrial Technologies
843-525-8323
Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 14, Rm. 118
Instructors
Kelli Boniecki
Early Care and Education Program Director
843-525-8307
Beaufort Mather Campus, Bldg. 2, Rm. 246
