The IDSCD program is designed for two groups of professionals, supported child care consultants working with special needs children aged 4-12 in before- and after-school programs and child care settings, and infant development consultants working with special needs children and their families aged 0-3 in either group or home locations.
The certificate program is an introductory level of training and consists of five courses or 15 credits. Students have two years to complete the program on a part-time basis. Individuals having completed the certificate program can put their credits toward the diploma program.
The diploma program, consisting of 10 courses or 30 credits, gives additional academic and professional guidance to infant development and supported child development consultants. Students have five years to complete the diploma program.
Individuals wishing to enroll in either the certificate or diploma programs must have either an undergraduate degree, a diploma in early childhood development from a recognized post-secondary school or relevant professional experience in an associated field.
The certificate program cost approximately $2,515 and the diploma program cost approximately $5,031 in 2010 Canadian dollars.