This diploma program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed to work with children (5-12 years old) and their families. This diploma can lead to earning the PA School‑Age Professional Credential (SAPC) through the PA Keys.
Weekly field observations and experiences are required throughout the course work in this program. Students must have three current clearances: FBI Fingerprint Clearance, a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and a Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Clearance. Students must also meet the local requirements of the field placement site, including the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification Clearance.
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:
- Demonstrate competency in all 13 Functional Areas relevant to school‑age care through coursework and documentation.
- Cultivate strong reflective and professional practices via portfolio development and assessment.
- Enhance career readiness for roles in school‑age care through a structured, competency‑based program aligned with Pennsylvania standards.
This program requires three courses. Students can apply the credits earned in this diploma program toward a certificate or Associate degree in Early Education and Child Development.
Upon completion of these courses, graduates of this diploma program are well-prepared for a range of positions in school‑age and early childhood settings and can seek employment as school-age program staff in before- and after-school programs in schools, recreation and community centers and child care facilities.
Graduates interested in the School-Age Professional Credential should apply separately through the PA Key and review additional candidacy requirements. (School-Age Professional Credential - The Pennsylvania Key)
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