All ECD Qualifications: 28 for Now 2023

This list of all SAQA Registered ECD qualifications can help you plan your study path. While the NQF Level 4 is popular for ECD Learnerships, there are other options to explore too. Since Early Childhood Development training is a top government priority, you can also find bursaries to study at a higher education level.

Exploring ECD Qualifications: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in Early Childhood Development (ECD), you’ve probably come across a variety of qualifications and learning programs related to this field. Let’s get into the world of ECD education and look at what’s available. In this post, we’ll provide an overview of the ECD qualifications, their levels, and key details to assist you in choosing the right path for your ECD studies.

ECD Qualifications List: SAQA Registered Education and Training Options

Take a look at 5 Higher Education ECD Qualifications

1. Advanced Certificate: Education: Foundation Phase and Early Childhood Development

• Qualification ID: 62455
• NQF Level: 6
• Learning Subfield: Schooling
• Originator: University of South Africa
• Minimum Credits: 120
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 20473

This advanced certificate, offered by the University of South Africa, is a level 6 qualification that focuses on Education in the Foundation Phase and Early Childhood Development. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking to work with young learners in a school environment.

2. Bachelor of Education Honours in Early Childhood Development and General Education and Training

Currently The Highest ECD Qualification at Level 8

• Qualification ID: 97172
• NQF Level: 8
• Learning Subfield: Schooling
• Originator: Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
• Minimum Credits: 120
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 20474

TUT offers a Bachelor of Education Honours program focusing on Early Childhood Development and General Education and Training. This NQF level 8 qualification is designed for individuals who aspire to become experts in ECD and general education.

3. Bachelor of Education Honours: Early Childhood Development

• Qualification ID: 20864
• NQF Level: 7
• Learning Subfield: Early Childhood Development
• Originator: University of South Africa
• Minimum Credits: 120
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 20474

The University of South Africa offers another NQF level 8 qualification, this time specifically focusing on Early Childhood Development. This program is ideal for those who want to specialize in ECD within the education field.

4. Bachelor of Education: Early Childhood Development, Foundation Phase

• Qualification ID: 62453
• NQF Level: 6
• Learning Subfield: Schooling
• Originator: University of South Africa
• Minimum Credits: 360
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 20161

For a broader approach to ECD and education in the foundation phase, the University of South Africa offers a Bachelor of Education program at NQF level 7. This comprehensive program will equip you to work with young learners in various educational settings.

5. Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development

• Qualification ID: 97173
• NQF Level: 5
• Learning Subfield: Early Childhood Development
• Originator: Centre for Creative Education/Iziko La Bantu Be Afrika NPC
• Minimum Credits: 120
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 64649

This higher certificate, offered by the Centre for Creative Education, is an excellent starting point for those interested in ECD. It focuses on the fundamentals of early childhood development.

All Higher Education Qualifications For Early Childhood Development

Go onto SAQA and search the Learning Subfield: Early Childhood Development. These qualifications are registered in Field 005 – Education, Training and Development and fall under the Council of Higher Education.

The originators are the universities or private higher education institutions (HEIs) offering the qualifications.

4 ECD Qualifications at ETDP SETA

The ETDP SETA qualifications for Early Childhood development fall under two sub-fields:

1. Early Childhood Development
2. People/Human-Centred Development

• ETDP SETA Contacts

• List of ETDP SETA Qualifications

1. Further Education and Training Certificate: Community Development: Early Childhood Development

ECD Qualifications Entry-Level

• Qualification ID: 76984
• NQF Level: 4
• Learning Subfield: Adult Learning
• Originator: Generic Provider – Field 05
• Minimum Credits: 125
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 67509

If you’re looking for a more entry-level qualification in ECD, this certificate might be suitable. It’s a level 4 qualification with a focus on community development within ECD, offered by various ETDP SETA accredited providers.

2. Higher Certificate: Early Childhood Development

• Qualification ID: 23117
• NQF Level: 5
• Learning Subfield: Early Childhood Development
• Originator: Generic Provider – Field 05
• Minimum Credits: 120
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 64649

Similar to the previous certificate, this program also focuses on Early Childhood Development at NQF level 5. It provides a solid foundation in ECD principles.

3. National Certificate: Community Development: Early Childhood Development

An Innovative Angle on ECD Qualifications

• Qualification ID: 83388
• NQF Level: 5
• Learning Subfield: People/Human-Centred Development
• Originator: Generic Provider – Field 07
• Minimum Credits: 147
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 80946

For those interested in community development and its relation to ECD, this certificate offers a unique perspective. It’s a level 5 qualification designed to prepare you for community-focused ECD work.

4. National Diploma: Early Childhood Development

• Qualification ID: 23118
• NQF Level: 5 (Pre-2009: Level 5)
• Learning Subfield: Early Childhood Development
• Originator: Generic Provider – Field 05
• Minimum Credits: 240
• Is this a Learning Program? Yes
• Qualification against which Learning Program is recorded: 64650

If you’re seeking a comprehensive diploma program in ECD, this National Diploma is an excellent choice. It covers various aspects of early childhood development and education.

Finding Your Perfect Early Childhood Development Qualification

Now you understand that the field of Early Childhood Development offers a wide range of qualifications and learning programs to suit your educational and career goals. Whether you’re looking for a certificate to start your journey or a specialized degree to become an expert in the field, there are options available to help you succeed in this rewarding profession. Be sure to research each program thoroughly and choose the one that aligns best with your interests and aspirations in Early Childhood Development.

Bursaries: Look Out For ECD Qualifications

Watch the critical skills list to see where the emerging needs are. If the field of education is your thing, then know where the skills shortages are in the education sector. Skills shortages mean that job opportunities and study grants will most likely become available to help meet rising market needs.

• Critical Skills Information: Youth Job Seeker Weapon

• Critical Skills: Study and Work Opportunities

• List Of Hard-to-fill Education Vacancies in 2023

Get Qualified: Finding ECD Accredited Training

• Check out our article on how to find ECD training: How to Find ECD Training: Teacher Qualifications

• Look For ECD Learnerships, read how: Exciting Learnerships in ECD, Youth, Environ and Development

Start An ECD Centre in Your Community

• Apply for an ECD programme certificate if you’re starting an ECD centre, click here to view the steps.

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