2026 Preschool Curriculum Requirements: How Kindergarten Teachers Can Pursue a Degree Part-Time

Did you know that Malaysia's Ministry of Education (MOE) is introducing a new preschool curriculum in 2026? This initiative aims to enhance the quality of early childhood education, with a special focus on bilingual learning. As part of this change, kindergarten teachers will soon need to hold a degree to continue teaching.

For current kindergarten teachers, balancing work and upgrading qualifications might feel daunting. However, pursuing a degree part-time is an accessible solution that allows you to meet these requirements while continuing your job. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can achieve your degree in Early Childhood Education through flexible part-time programs offered by top Malaysian universities.

Why Pursue a Degree in Early Childhood Education?

A degree equips you with advanced skills and knowledge to excel in teaching young children. You'll gain expertise in child development, pedagogy, and classroom management, ensuring you are well-prepared for the updated curriculum. Moreover, having a degree opens doors to career advancement opportunities, making you a more competitive professional in the education sector.

Top Part-Time Degree Programs for Kindergarten Teachers

1. Management and Science University (MSU)

Program: Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (PJJ)

MSU offers a highly flexible distance learning program (PJJ) tailored for working professionals.

Key Features:

• Modules designed to fit around your work schedule.
• Access to online learning materials and on-campus resources.
• Emphasis on practical teaching strategies and bilingual education.

Why Choose MSU?

As one of Malaysia's top five private universities, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Management and Science University (MSU) offers a program ideal for teachers seeking a comprehensive educational experience while managing their professional commitments.

2. Wawasan Open University (WOU)

Program: Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)

WOU’s program focuses on flexible learning for working adults, with a blend of online and face-to-face tutorials.

Key Features:

• Open entry policy allowing more flexible admission pathways.
• Comprehensive coverage of early childhood education principles.
• Strong focus on bilingual teaching methodologies.

Why Choose WOU?

WOU offers fully flexible online learning designed specially for working adults. With its focus on open and distance learning, WOU is perfect for teachers seeking an affordable and flexible way to gain their degree, while being able to focus on their duties as educators.

3. Open University Malaysia (OUM)

Program: Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with Honours

OUM specializes in flexible learning solutions tailored for working professionals in the education sector.

Key Features:

• Self-paced learning through online platforms.
• Specialisation in child development and early childhood curriculum design.
• Opportunities to interact with a community of educators.

Why Choose OUM?

As Malaysia's pioneer in open and distance learning, Open University Malaysia (OUM) offers a fully online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with Honours program. This flexible approach allows you to balance full-time work while advancing your qualifications at your own pace.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

Create a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times each week for your studies to maintain consistency.

Seek Employer Support: Inform your employer about your degree pursuits; some schools may offer flexible work hours or sponsorship.

Leverage Online Resources: Use online lectures and forums to save time and stay engaged with your coursework.

Join a Support Group: Connect with peers who are also pursuing part-time degrees to stay motivated and share resources.

Take the First Step Towards Your Future in Early Childhood Education

With the new curriculum requiring all kindergarten teachers to hold a degree by 2026, now is the perfect time to take the next step in your professional journey. 

Programs offered by MSU, WOU, and OUM provide the flexibility you need to earn a degree while continuing to teach. Start preparing today to meet MOE’s requirements and contribute to the brighter future of early childhood education in Malaysia.

If you're ready to begin your journey, explore the links provided above to find the program that best suits your needs!