Diploma in Early Childhood Education

(R3-DL/143/4/0007 (A6959) 05/28)

Children Learning and Development have been the focus of the Early Childhood Education (ECE). ECE provides the basic education and prepares children for primary school education. The ECE programme at OUM will contribute to the all-rounded development of ECE teachers by updating their knowledge, skills and attitude as ECE professionals.

The programme is tailor-designed for Early Childhood principals, administrators, teachers, care takers, childminders and those involved with young learners to ensure that they have the necessary and enriched knowledge about child development and assessment, curriculum content, children arts and music, learning and pedagogy, health and safety, and ECE-center management skills.

*This programme is not available for International intake

Pn. Nurhusna Binti Abdul Malek
Programme Director

Tel (Office) :
603 78013906

Email :
nurhusna@oum.edu.my

Malaysian Learner Fees
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4
Sem 1 RM 1,278 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,704
Sem 2 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,278
Sem 3 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,278
Total RM 12,780

* Fees applicable to Malaysians and Permanent Residents only.

* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

Discount for the Physically Challenged Learners (OKU) and Senior Citizens
The University offers 50% discount for:
1. Senior citizens aged 60 and above on registration date; and
2. Physically challenged learners – a valid Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) is required.
The discounts are not valid for second time registration and repeating of subjects.
Learners who receive this discount are not entitled to other discounts and promotions.
Note
Processing fee: RM30

Financial options: Payment Mode:
EPF (Account 2); or JomPAY
Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; or Internet Banking
HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); or Debit/Credit Card.
International Learner Fees
*This programme is not available for International intake
Program Educational Objectives (PEO)
This programme aims to produce graduates that are:

PEO 1: To produce early childhood educators who have relevant and related knowledge and technically competence in good digital and numeracy skills.

PEO 2: To produce early childhood educators who have caring personality, positive attitude and entrepreneurial mind set in providing early childhood care and educational services.

PEO 3: To produce early childhood educators who are responsible and accountable in engaging families and communities through good communication and interpersonal skills in ensuring the well-being of children.

PEO 4: To produce early childhood educators who are professional, ethical and sustainable practices in carrying out their duties in providing early childhood care and education at all settings.

Programme Learning Outcomes (PLO)
Upon completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

PLO MQF LO
PLO 1: Compare relevant and related body of knowledge in early childhood education. 1. Knowledge and Understanding
2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 2: Analyse issues on core knowledge, current trends and research findings in early childhood settings to generate innovative solutions to problems. 1. Knowledge and Understanding
2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 3: Apply numeracy skills in analysing current issues and trends in early childhood education. 3. Practical Skills
7. Numeracy Skills
PLO 4: Demonstrate the use of a broad range of digital technology in managing information on early childhood education. 3. Practical Skills
6. Digital Skills
PLO 5: Demonstrate caring personality and inspire positive attitude when addressing or investigating issues/trends in early childhood education. 4. Interpersonal Skills
9. Personal Skills
PLO 6: Demonstrate entrepreneurial mind-set in the administration and management of early childhood education. 10. Entrepreneurial Skills
PLO 7: Design family and community involvement programmes in enhancing the well-being of children in their formative years. 2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 8: Demonstrate effective communication, interpersonal and leadership skills in advocating quality early childhood education. 4. Interpersonal Skills
5. Communication Skills
8. Leadership, Autonomy and Responsibility
PLO 9: Advocate professionalism and ethics in providing early childhood care and education services. 11. Ethics and Professionalism

MPU Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Falsafah Dan Isu Semasa 1 2
Entrepreneurship 1 2
Co-Curriculum 2
Kursus Integriti dan Antirasuah 1 3
TOTAL CREDIT 9

 

University Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Learning Skills for 21st Century 3
English for Oral Communication 3
English for Workplace Communication 3

 

Core Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Development of Early Childhood Education 3
Child Behaviour Management 3
Family and Community in Early Childhood Education 3
Children Observation and Assessment 3
Early Childhood Education Policies and Services 3
Principles Of Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Education 3
Effective Practices in Early Childhood Education: Building A Foundation 3
Bahasa, Literasi dan Komunikasi Bahasa Melayu 3
Cognitive Planning and Teaching 3
Arts and Creativity for Children 3
Affective Planning and Teaching 3
English for Young Children 3
Care In Early Childhood Setting 3
Early Childhood Curriculum: Developmental Bases for Teaching and Learning 3
Safety and Health in Early Childhood Education 3
Early Mathematics for Children 3
Early Science for Children 3
Early Music for Children 3
Introductory Management 3
Introduction to Children Development 3
Practicum I (Nurseries) 3
Practicum II (Preschool) 3

 

Elective Courses (Choose ONE Group of Electives)

Subject Name Credit Hours
GROUP 1
Fardu Ain untuk Kanak-kanak 3
Kemahiran Pengajaran Bahasa Arab 3
GROUP 2
Introduction to Special Needs 3
Educating Young Children with Diverse Abilities 3
GROUP 3
Preschool Physical Education 1 3
Preschool Physical Education 2 3
GROUP 4
Bahasa Cina Prasekolah 1 3
Bahasa Cina Prasekolah 2 3
GROUP 5
Introduction To Psychology 3
Health Psychology 3
  1. Why should I take a Diploma in Early Childhood Education (DECE)?
    If you want to be in the early childhood line in Malaysia, DECE is the minimum requirement you will need.
  2. Why should I take it at Open University Malaysia?
    There are many reasons. To name a few:

    1. OUM is owned by 11 public universities in Malaysia, making it a stable university to study in.
    2. DECE program in OUM has accreditation from MQA and recognized by JPA.
    3. It can be done online or with F2F classes during weekends.
    4. You can do your practicum in your school.
    5. It has a variety of electives to choose from:
    • Islamic Studies
    • Special Needs
    • Mandarin (January 2021)
    • Physical Education for Preschool (January 2021)
  3. Does my experience in any way help me in my studies?
    Of course, in OUM, we value your experience.

    1. You may transfer credit through APEL C
    2. You may do teaching assignments instead of being physically at the setting for practicum if you have five years and more teaching experience
  4. How much are the fees
    It is among the cheapest fees, just RM 12, 780 which you will pay in 10 semesters.
  5. How long is the duration of my studies
    It is just ten semesters or three years and four months.
  6. Is there a possibility of finishing my studies early
    Yes, other than getting credit transfers, you can opt to take four courses per semester.
  7. What are the jobs people might hold after completing the Diploma in Early Childhood Education successfully?
    a. Early Childhood Educator
    b. Administrator
    c. Entrepreneur Principal
  8. Can I teach in government schools in later years?
    You may refer to the Ministry of Education Malaysia or visit their website at www.moe.gov.my for more information.
  9. Do you offer any scholarship?
    No, but you may apply the following for financial assistance:

    • PTPTN; or
    • EPF (Account 2); or
    • Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; or
    • HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); or
    • Flexible Payment Scheme.
  10. What is the average class size?
    Not more than 20 students.

  11. If I were to do it fully online, what support would I be getting?

    You would get the following support:

    • a forum that you may ask questions and interact with your peers and tutor 24 hours every day.
    • Video lectures
    • lesson plan
    • E Tutorial
  12. I have working experience in preschools; is there any special entry requirement to enrol in this diploma programme?
    Yes. The Ministry of Higher Education has set special minimum entry requirements as follows:
    a. 1 credit in SPM with a minimum of 5 years of working experience
    b. 2 credits in SPM with a minimum of 3 years of working experience
  13. What if I don’t have any credits, but I do have working experience, Can I still apply?
    Yes, you can apply through APEL entry but your need to be a

    • Malaysian;
    • must be 20 years old and above in the year of application being made;
    • Have previous working experience/learning relevant to the field applied; and
    • Pass APEL Assessment for a Diploma (conducted by OUM)
  14. How do I apply for the course ?
    You would need to do the following :

    • Apply online
    • Go to the nearest centre and with your certificates, IC and RM30 processing fees.
  15. What is the requirement for the normal entry?
    The requirements are as follows:

    • Pass SPM/SPMV/MCE or its equivalent, with minimum credit in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass UEC with minimum Grade B in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass O-Level with minimum Grade C in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass SKM Level 3 in Early Childhood/ Preschool Care and pass SPM with minimum credit in 1 subject; or
    • Pass Community College Certificate equivalent to MQF Level 3 in a related field and pass SPM with minimum credit in 1 subject; or
    • Pass Early Childhood Education Certificate (MQF Level 3) in a related field with a minimum CGPA of 2.00; or
    • Pass STPM or equivalent with a minimum Grade C (GP 2.00) in 1 subject; or
    • Pass STAM with a minimum grade of Maqbul; or
    • Other qualifications recognized as equivalent by the Malaysian Government.
  16. Can I further my studies after acquiring a Diploma in Early Childhood Education in Open University Malaysia?
    Yes, OUM offers Bachelor in Early Childhood Education and Master in Early childhood Education.
    Do you know that with a Diploma in Early Childhood and work experience you may apply for Master in Early Childhood Education through APEL.
  17. Will I be able to get any credit transfer if I decide to study in OUM?
    Yes, if you decide to proceed to Bachelor in Early Childhood Education, you can get 50% credit transfer. That would mean graduating faster with less money spent.
Fees
Malaysian Learner Fees
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4
Sem 1 RM 1,278 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,704
Sem 2 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,278
Sem 3 RM 1,136 RM 1,278 RM 1,278
Total RM 12,780

* Fees applicable to Malaysians and Permanent Residents only.

* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

Discount for the Physically Challenged Learners (OKU) and Senior Citizens
The University offers 50% discount for:
1. Senior citizens aged 60 and above on registration date; and
2. Physically challenged learners – a valid Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) is required.
The discounts are not valid for second time registration and repeating of subjects.
Learners who receive this discount are not entitled to other discounts and promotions.
Note
Processing fee: RM30

Financial options: Payment Mode:
EPF (Account 2); or JomPAY
Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; or Internet Banking
HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); or Debit/Credit Card.
International Learner Fees
*This programme is not available for International intake
Entry Requirements
PEO & PLO
Program Educational Objectives (PEO)
This programme aims to produce graduates that are:

PEO 1: To produce early childhood educators who have relevant and related knowledge and technically competence in good digital and numeracy skills.

PEO 2: To produce early childhood educators who have caring personality, positive attitude and entrepreneurial mind set in providing early childhood care and educational services.

PEO 3: To produce early childhood educators who are responsible and accountable in engaging families and communities through good communication and interpersonal skills in ensuring the well-being of children.

PEO 4: To produce early childhood educators who are professional, ethical and sustainable practices in carrying out their duties in providing early childhood care and education at all settings.

Programme Learning Outcomes (PLO)
Upon completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

PLO MQF LO
PLO 1: Compare relevant and related body of knowledge in early childhood education. 1. Knowledge and Understanding
2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 2: Analyse issues on core knowledge, current trends and research findings in early childhood settings to generate innovative solutions to problems. 1. Knowledge and Understanding
2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 3: Apply numeracy skills in analysing current issues and trends in early childhood education. 3. Practical Skills
7. Numeracy Skills
PLO 4: Demonstrate the use of a broad range of digital technology in managing information on early childhood education. 3. Practical Skills
6. Digital Skills
PLO 5: Demonstrate caring personality and inspire positive attitude when addressing or investigating issues/trends in early childhood education. 4. Interpersonal Skills
9. Personal Skills
PLO 6: Demonstrate entrepreneurial mind-set in the administration and management of early childhood education. 10. Entrepreneurial Skills
PLO 7: Design family and community involvement programmes in enhancing the well-being of children in their formative years. 2. Cognitive Skills
PLO 8: Demonstrate effective communication, interpersonal and leadership skills in advocating quality early childhood education. 4. Interpersonal Skills
5. Communication Skills
8. Leadership, Autonomy and Responsibility
PLO 9: Advocate professionalism and ethics in providing early childhood care and education services. 11. Ethics and Professionalism

Programme Structure

MPU Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Falsafah Dan Isu Semasa 1 2
Entrepreneurship 1 2
Co-Curriculum 2
Kursus Integriti dan Antirasuah 1 3
TOTAL CREDIT 9

 

University Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Learning Skills for 21st Century 3
English for Oral Communication 3
English for Workplace Communication 3

 

Core Courses

Subject Name Credit Hours
Development of Early Childhood Education 3
Child Behaviour Management 3
Family and Community in Early Childhood Education 3
Children Observation and Assessment 3
Early Childhood Education Policies and Services 3
Principles Of Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Education 3
Effective Practices in Early Childhood Education: Building A Foundation 3
Bahasa, Literasi dan Komunikasi Bahasa Melayu 3
Cognitive Planning and Teaching 3
Arts and Creativity for Children 3
Affective Planning and Teaching 3
English for Young Children 3
Care In Early Childhood Setting 3
Early Childhood Curriculum: Developmental Bases for Teaching and Learning 3
Safety and Health in Early Childhood Education 3
Early Mathematics for Children 3
Early Science for Children 3
Early Music for Children 3
Introductory Management 3
Introduction to Children Development 3
Practicum I (Nurseries) 3
Practicum II (Preschool) 3

 

Elective Courses (Choose ONE Group of Electives)

Subject Name Credit Hours
GROUP 1
Fardu Ain untuk Kanak-kanak 3
Kemahiran Pengajaran Bahasa Arab 3
GROUP 2
Introduction to Special Needs 3
Educating Young Children with Diverse Abilities 3
GROUP 3
Preschool Physical Education 1 3
Preschool Physical Education 2 3
GROUP 4
Bahasa Cina Prasekolah 1 3
Bahasa Cina Prasekolah 2 3
GROUP 5
Introduction To Psychology 3
Health Psychology 3
FAQs
  1. Why should I take a Diploma in Early Childhood Education (DECE)?
    If you want to be in the early childhood line in Malaysia, DECE is the minimum requirement you will need.
  2. Why should I take it at Open University Malaysia?
    There are many reasons. To name a few:

    1. OUM is owned by 11 public universities in Malaysia, making it a stable university to study in.
    2. DECE program in OUM has accreditation from MQA and recognized by JPA.
    3. It can be done online or with F2F classes during weekends.
    4. You can do your practicum in your school.
    5. It has a variety of electives to choose from:
    • Islamic Studies
    • Special Needs
    • Mandarin (January 2021)
    • Physical Education for Preschool (January 2021)
  3. Does my experience in any way help me in my studies?
    Of course, in OUM, we value your experience.

    1. You may transfer credit through APEL C
    2. You may do teaching assignments instead of being physically at the setting for practicum if you have five years and more teaching experience
  4. How much are the fees
    It is among the cheapest fees, just RM 12, 780 which you will pay in 10 semesters.
  5. How long is the duration of my studies
    It is just ten semesters or three years and four months.
  6. Is there a possibility of finishing my studies early
    Yes, other than getting credit transfers, you can opt to take four courses per semester.
  7. What are the jobs people might hold after completing the Diploma in Early Childhood Education successfully?
    a. Early Childhood Educator
    b. Administrator
    c. Entrepreneur Principal
  8. Can I teach in government schools in later years?
    You may refer to the Ministry of Education Malaysia or visit their website at www.moe.gov.my for more information.
  9. Do you offer any scholarship?
    No, but you may apply the following for financial assistance:

    • PTPTN; or
    • EPF (Account 2); or
    • Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; or
    • HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); or
    • Flexible Payment Scheme.
  10. What is the average class size?
    Not more than 20 students.

  11. If I were to do it fully online, what support would I be getting?

    You would get the following support:

    • a forum that you may ask questions and interact with your peers and tutor 24 hours every day.
    • Video lectures
    • lesson plan
    • E Tutorial
  12. I have working experience in preschools; is there any special entry requirement to enrol in this diploma programme?
    Yes. The Ministry of Higher Education has set special minimum entry requirements as follows:
    a. 1 credit in SPM with a minimum of 5 years of working experience
    b. 2 credits in SPM with a minimum of 3 years of working experience
  13. What if I don’t have any credits, but I do have working experience, Can I still apply?
    Yes, you can apply through APEL entry but your need to be a

    • Malaysian;
    • must be 20 years old and above in the year of application being made;
    • Have previous working experience/learning relevant to the field applied; and
    • Pass APEL Assessment for a Diploma (conducted by OUM)
  14. How do I apply for the course ?
    You would need to do the following :

    • Apply online
    • Go to the nearest centre and with your certificates, IC and RM30 processing fees.
  15. What is the requirement for the normal entry?
    The requirements are as follows:

    • Pass SPM/SPMV/MCE or its equivalent, with minimum credit in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass UEC with minimum Grade B in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass O-Level with minimum Grade C in 3 subjects; or
    • Pass SKM Level 3 in Early Childhood/ Preschool Care and pass SPM with minimum credit in 1 subject; or
    • Pass Community College Certificate equivalent to MQF Level 3 in a related field and pass SPM with minimum credit in 1 subject; or
    • Pass Early Childhood Education Certificate (MQF Level 3) in a related field with a minimum CGPA of 2.00; or
    • Pass STPM or equivalent with a minimum Grade C (GP 2.00) in 1 subject; or
    • Pass STAM with a minimum grade of Maqbul; or
    • Other qualifications recognized as equivalent by the Malaysian Government.
  16. Can I further my studies after acquiring a Diploma in Early Childhood Education in Open University Malaysia?
    Yes, OUM offers Bachelor in Early Childhood Education and Master in Early childhood Education.
    Do you know that with a Diploma in Early Childhood and work experience you may apply for Master in Early Childhood Education through APEL.
  17. Will I be able to get any credit transfer if I decide to study in OUM?
    Yes, if you decide to proceed to Bachelor in Early Childhood Education, you can get 50% credit transfer. That would mean graduating faster with less money spent.
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