Short answer: Choose the diploma if you are starting out after SPM and want to begin working with young children sooner. Choose the bachelor's degree if you already have a diploma or STPM/foundation-level qualifications and want deeper knowledge, stronger career progression and eligibility for roles that ask for a degree. Many students do both: diploma first, then degree. At Goon International College (GIC) in Kuala Lumpur, you can take the Diploma in Early Childhood Education and then progress to the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (3+0) with Villa College Maldives.
Side-by-side comparison
| Diploma in Early Childhood Education | Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (3+0) | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Diploma (MQF Level 4) | Bachelor's degree (MQF Level 6) |
| Typical entry | After SPM | After a diploma, STPM, foundation or equivalent |
| Focus | Child development, preschool teaching, childcare, activity planning | Deeper child development theory, curriculum, observation, inclusive care, research and professional practice |
| Study at GIC | Full-time, Kuala Lumpur | 3 years, full-time, English, Kuala Lumpur |
| Intakes | Contact admissions | March, June, November |
| Partner | – | Villa College Maldives |
| Approval | KPT R/0112/4/0131, MQA/FA14363 | N/0112/6/0052, MQA/PA18916 (valid 14 April 2026 – 13 April 2031) |
| Typical roles | Preschool/kindergarten teacher, taska educator, early learning centre assistant | Preschool teacher, curriculum support, senior teacher and centre leadership pathways, education administration |
When the diploma is the right choice
- You have just finished SPM and want a direct route into early childhood education.
- You want to start working in a tadika or taska as soon as possible.
- You are already working in childcare and want a recognised qualification.
- You want to try the field before committing to a degree.
National policy has aimed for preschool teachers to hold at least a Diploma in Early Childhood Education, so the diploma is a strong starting qualification. See What can you become after a Diploma in Early Childhood Education?
When the bachelor's degree is the right choice
- You already hold a diploma, STPM, foundation or equivalent.
- You want to lead a class, a team or a centre in future.
- You are interested in curriculum design, child development research or education administration.
- You may later want postgraduate study or roles that require a degree.
GIC's degree is “3+0”: all three years are completed in Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with Villa College Maldives, so there is no need to study overseas.
The diploma-to-degree route
For many students the best plan is both: complete the diploma, gain some experience, then continue to the degree. This builds practical confidence first and theory and leadership skills second. Entry and any credit transfer depend on the degree's admission rules, so speak to GIC admissions about your results early.
Cost and funding
Fees and PTPTN or other financial assistance depend on the programme, intake and your eligibility. Contact GIC for the latest fee schedule and funding options for both programmes.
Learn more
- Diploma in Early Childhood Education programme page
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (3+0) programme page
- Quick comparison table: Diploma vs Bachelor in Early Childhood Education
Frequently asked questions
Should I take a diploma or a degree in early childhood education?
Take the diploma if you are starting after SPM and want to begin working sooner. Take the degree if you already have a diploma, STPM or foundation and want deeper knowledge and leadership pathways.
Can I do a degree in early childhood education after a diploma?
Yes. At GIC, diploma graduates can apply for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (3+0) in collaboration with Villa College Maldives, subject to admission requirements.
How long is the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at GIC?
It is a 3-year full-time degree taught in English in Kuala Lumpur, with intakes in March, June and November.
What does 3+0 mean?
3+0 means all three years of the degree are studied in Malaysia, delivered in collaboration with the partner institution, with no overseas study required.
Which pays more, a diploma or a degree in early childhood education?
Pay depends on the employer, location and experience, but a degree generally opens more senior roles such as lead teacher, curriculum or centre leadership positions over time.