Academic Programmes
Advanced Diploma in Human Development: Early Child Development:
The Advanced Diploma is an in-service, multi-disciplinary, postgraduate programme. It is designed to prepare professionals engaged in health, education and social development sectors for the development of ECD strategies through a critical examination of current knowledge and practices.
Learning Objectives:
To apply the understanding that early experiences, determined by the social context, give shape to the brain and biological development, and set life long trajectories for learning, behaviour and health.
To plan for sustainable, community-based integrated ECD services that can make a difference in the survival, growth and development prospects of children, create equitable opportunities for women, contribute to community mobilisation and social change and improve the human capital of the population.
To work in a team and collaborate with professionals in several disciplines, donors and organisations in promoting effective ECD services that are grounded in community realities.
To demonstrate how ECD programmes can promote the human rights of all children.
To develop self-awareness of personal values, critical thinking skills and the ability to reflect on and analyse immediate environments within a larger societal context.
Selection Criteria:
A Bachelors degree or professional qualification requiring at least three years of education and training.
Experience in service for atleast two years related to child care, health, education or development.
Employer’s endorsement and Support for in service education and attendance at seminars held at AKU.
Sufficient funds for tuition, travel to AKU and subsistence.
Modes of Study:
Each course extends over approximately five to six months and requires the following modes of study:
The Self Study component is facilitated by a Virtual Learning Environment that allows an interactive process.
Advanced Diploma comprises of following three courses From Early Child Development to Human Development: Integrating Perspectives
For more details about the course, please download the
Course Brochure ,
Application Form and
Sample Test Paper
Early Child Development Practice, Programmes and Policies
An Introduction to Research in Early Child Development: Methodology, Analysis and Reporting
Modes of Study
Each course extends over approximately five to six months and requires the following modes of study:
- Self-study
- Seminars at AKU in Karachi
- Early Child Development project
The Self-study component is facilitated by a Virtual Learning Environment that allows an interactive process.
Entry Requirements
Participants should have a four-year Bachelors degree or a two-year Bachelors degree with two years of ECD-related experience, fluency in English, familiarity with computer applications including accessing, information via the Internet and the ability to understand smile data analysis.
