About IGNOU DECE – Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education
This programme teaches you how to care for and educate children from birth to six years of age. It prepares you to work in preschools, nursery schools, and crèches by explaining how children grow physically and mentally during their early years.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you have finished school and want to work as a teacher in a nursery or a preschool like Kidzee or EuroKids, this course is for you. It is also a great choice for mothers who want to understand their own child’s development or for people planning to start a small daycare center at home. You do not need a background in science or psychology to succeed in this diploma.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it is much cheaper than doing a private nursery teacher training (NTT) course while providing a certificate that is valid across India. The flexible schedule allows you to study while staying at home or working another job. You also get hands-on experience through project work in real schools, which helps you feel confident when applying for teaching jobs later.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing the diploma, you can apply for jobs as a Nursery Teacher, Preschool Coordinator, or Childcare Supervisor. Many graduates find work in private schools, government-run Anganwadis, or NGOs like Save the Children and CRY. It also provides the legal and educational foundation needed if you want to open your own play school or crèche in your locality.
IGNOU DECE (Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education) Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the DECE programme. It outlines the duration, eligibility, and language options available for students enrolling in the 2026 session.
| Programme Name | Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education |
| Programme Code | DECE |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or its equivalent |
| Medium of Instruction | English, Hindi, and Tamil |
| Offering School | School of Continuing Education |
IGNOU DECE Admission – Important Details
The IGNOU DECE Admission process involves both academic study and practical field work. Students must register for the programme and then select a nearby Study Centre where they will attend weekend counseling sessions. It is important to note that the course includes three theory subjects and one major project which requires you to visit a preschool for 30 days. You must keep in touch with your Regional Centre (RC) for updates regarding the submission of your project work and assignments during the 2026 academic cycle.
IGNOU DECE Admission Last Date 2026
The university generally opens the IGNOU DECE Admission window for two sessions every year. For the January session, the last date is typically February 28, 2026. For the July session, the last date is typically July 31, 2026. However, these dates are often extended by the university. Candidates should keep checking the official Samarth Portal for the final notification regarding the 2026 deadlines.
IGNOU DECE Eligibility Criteria
To secure admission in the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education, candidates must meet the basic educational requirements set by the School of Continuing Education.
- Successful completion of 10+2 (Higher Secondary) from a recognized board like CBSE, ICSE, or State Boards.
- Candidates with an equivalent qualification recognized by the university are also eligible.
- There is no minimum percentage required in class 12th for this programme.
- There is no age bar, meaning anyone of any age can apply for admission.
IGNOU DECE Fees Structure 2026
The fee for this programme is kept low to make professional teacher training accessible to everyone. The amounts listed below are based on the latest available data for the 2026 session.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 3,000 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (One-time) |
| Examination Fee | As per university norms (Per Course) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU DECE Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password by providing your email and mobile number.
- Fill out the personal and educational details in the application form and select DECE from the programme list.
- Select the Regional Centre and a Study Centre (LSC) that is convenient for you to visit for practicals.
- Upload required documents such as your scanned photograph, signature, and 10+2 certificates in the correct file size.
- Pay the total admission fees online via Credit card, Debit card, or Net Banking/UPI.
- Save and print your application form and the payment confirmation receipt for your future reference.
IGNOU DECE Curriculum and Course Structure
The DECE programme is a one-year diploma consisting of 32 total credits. Each course is designed to provide a specific set of skills related to child health, nutrition, and education. You must pass both the theory exams and the practical project to earn the certificate.
| Course Code | Core Subjects |
| DECE-1 | Organizing Child Care Services |
| DECE-2 | Child Health and Nutrition |
| DECE-3 | Services and Programmes for Children |
| DECE-4 | Project Work: Working with Young Children in a Preschool Setting |
IGNOU DECE Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Continuing Education.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Department |
| Prof. Rekha Sharma Sen | rekhasharmasen@ignou.ac.in | SOCE, IGNOU |
| Dr. Hebba Ahmed | hebba@ignou.ac.in | SOCE, IGNOU |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU DECE
After successfully completing the IGNOU DECE Admission and finishing the course, you can work as a Preschool Teacher, Nursery In-charge, or Crèche Supervisor. Many students find jobs in private chains like Little Millennium or Mother’s Pride. You can also work with government schemes like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) as an Anganwadi worker or supervisor. If you prefer social work, organizations like UNICEF and local child welfare NGOs often hire diploma holders for their community education projects. This diploma also allows you to legally register and start your own small nursery school or daycare centre in your community.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for DECE students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU DECE Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
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