Specialist Diploma in Psychology (Early Childhood Psychology)

Course details

Early childhood is a time of remarkable physical, cognitive, social and emotional development. Infants enter the world with a limited range of skills and abilities. Watching a child develop new motor, cognitive, language and social skills is a source of wonder for parents and caregivers. The Specialist Diploma in Psychology majoring in Early Childhood Psychology covers two core units. The Disorders of Infancy and Childhood unit that allows students to have a better understand of the mental disorders that are first diagnosed in early or late childhood and their effects. And another unit on Early Childhood Development unit that allows students to develop a solid foundation in the theory and practice of effective childcare with coursework in child growth and development, child psychology and many others.

Structure & Content

To qualify for the award of Specialist Diploma in Psychology (Early Childhood Psychology), students are required to complete eight (8) units comprising:

Four (4) Core Units

• Psychology Around Us
• Human Development from a Psychologist's Perspective
• Psychology: Statistics & Research Methods
• Critical Thinking in Social Psychological Context

Two (2) Specialisation Units in Early Childhood Psychology

• Disorders of Infancy & Childhood
• Early Childhood & Development

Two (2) units from other specialisations

• Applied Business Psychology
• Crisis Stress Management

• Counselling & Communication Skills
• Self-Awareness & Group Dynamics

Assessment Methods

Each module is assessed by a combination of class participation, written assignments (inpidual and/or group assignments), project or examinations. Assessment modes may differ according to inpidual module requirements.

Students will attend a combination of face-to-face lectures and tutorials in this programme.

Entry Requirements

This is an industry-oriented programme and applicants are required to have a minimum of two (2) years working experience. Applicants should also possess one (1) of the following:

• Full GCE 'A' level, OR
• ITE Higher Nitec, OR
• High School Qualification equivalent to Year Twelve (12) in the case of international students, OR
• SMF Institute Certificate in Foundation Studies
• Matured candidates of age 21 and above with substantial working experience would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in the English Language (EL1) or its equivalent:

• GCE 'O' level with grade C6 & above, OR
• IELTS minimum band score of 5.5 (Reading and Listening 5.5) and (Writing and Speaking 5.0) OR
• TOEFL score of at least 525 (paper-based) or 200 (computer-based) or 70 (Internet-based)
• Pass SMF Institute English Placement Test