Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Educators are an essential part of a child’s early years, helping to prepare them to navigate the world and to enter into formal education. Our certificate program provides the knowledge and skills you need to provide high quality childcare and education in a variety of settings for children from 30 months to age 12. The diploma program allows you to specialize as either an Infant/Toddler or a Special Needs educator.
Individuals who choose to work as Early Childhood Educators should:
- Be caring and have the desire to make a difference in the lives of children.
- Be comfortable providing fair but firm discipline
- Have strong communication skills with children and parents of various cultural backgrounds.
Important Notice for Program Applicants Re: Immunization During COVID-19 Outbreak
Thank you for your interest in applying to be a student in one of our Health and Human Services programs at the College of the Rockies. As a successful applicant, you will receive or have received a request to provide documentation confirming you are current in immunizations.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic obtaining and completing these admission requirements has been more difficult, your admission into the Health and Human Services programs will not be held up while you wait to complete these requirements. Recently services have begun to open up and obtaining these documents is becoming available. It is the responsibility of the student to continue to actively seek to obtain and complete these requirements. Please submit any missing admission requirement documentation to Enrolment Services.
Immunization services in BC are in flux as Public Health Departments must regularly reprioritize resource distribution in response to changing COVID-19 conditions. Our local Public Health agency will do their best to accommodate College of the Rockies student immunizations by individual appointment. Immunizations are also available through local pharmacists and Travel Clinics. We recommend that students continue to pursue obtaining required immunizations to complete program admission and practicum placement requirements as soon as available.
If you have chosen not to be immunized, you should submit the waiver form in your application package, as per the package instructions.
Program Overview
The Early childhood Education certificate program is available either online or through blended studies, meaning you would take some courses face-to-face in a classroom, and some online. This program can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis.
This program also includes a practicum, where you will correspond with your instructor online but receive your practicum experience in a face-to-face work setting.
The diploma program allows for specialization as either an Infant/Toddler Educator or a Special Needs Educator and is available online only.
- Full-time students will start in September of each year and complete all the required courses and practica by the end of June (10 months).
- Part-time students may take up to 3 years to complete all course work and practica requirements.
View: Early Childhood Education Planning Guide
At the completion of all courses and practica, a Child, Youth and Family Studies Certificate with an Early Childhood Educator specialization is granted. Graduates of the ECE Certificate are encouraged to continue their studies in the Infant/Toddler Diploma and/or the Special Needs Diploma.
Early Childhood Education Certificate Requirements
Year 1 Fall Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CYFS 101 | Inclusive Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| CYFS 102 | Observing and Recording | 3 |
| ECED 105 | Developing Relationships with Young Children | 3 |
| ECED 113 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 3 |
| ECED 125 | Introduction to Practicum | 3 |
| ECED 129 | Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| ECED 137 | Creating Curriculum with Young Children 1 | 3 |
| Total | 21 |
Year 1 Winter Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CYFS 116 | Lifespan Development | 4 |
| ECED 126 | Practicum 1 | 4 |
| ECED 131 | Principles of Program Development | 3 |
| ECED 138 | Creating Curriculum with Young Children 2 | 3 |
| CYFS 103 | Guiding Across the Lifespan | 4 |
| HSWR 106 | Families | 3 |
| Total | 21 |
Spring Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ECED 120 | Professional Conduct | 3 |
| ECED 128 | Practicum 2 | 4 |
| ECED 149 | Studies in Diversity | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
| Totals: Fall, Winter and Spring semesters | 52 |
Successful completion of all Year 1 courses is required for the Early Childhood Education Certificate.
Why Choose an Early Childhood Education Career?
- Work in a variety of settings including: child care centres, early learning programs, preschool programs, schools, recreational facilities and more.
- Work BC forecasts an opening of close to 6,300 jobs to replace retiring workers over the next 10 years with an additional 3,000 openings due to economic growth.
- A rewarding career – creating safe and interactive learning environments where children develop social skills, build their self-esteem and learn important life skills.
Course Descriptions
Year 1 – Semester 1 – Fall
CYFS-101 – Inclusive Interpersonal Communications
Inclusive Interpersonal Communications enables the student to develop interpersonal communication skills to enhance their professional and personal relationships. We also expect students to clearly evaluate their own values, beliefs, and attitudes that influence their interpersonal communication.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $202.80
- Course Outline
CYFS-102 – Observing and Recording
This course is designed to help students learning to become human service workers, education assistants, early childhood educators, and aboriginal education support workers enhance their skills in observing and recording human development and behaviour from birth through adulthood. A variety of observing and recording techniques will be explored in the course.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $202.80
- Course Outline
ECED-105 – Developing Positive Relationships with Young Children
This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the importance of developing positive relationships with young children. A variety of developmentally appropriate techniques and strategies will be presented and explored to help learners build on their skills and ability to foster nurturing, caring and supportive relationships with the children in their care.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12,ENGL 090, or equivalent. Corequisites: ECED 125 (as a co-requisite is exempt for students auditing or taking the course for general interest).
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-113 – Health, Safety and Nutrition
This course focuses on the important aspects of health, safety, and nutrition in the early childhood setting. Topics explored include introduction to field trip and menu planning; the promotion and modeling of a healthy, safe environment; personal hygiene; standards of cleanliness; preventing the spread of communicable diseases; and supporting the management of chronic health conditions.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-125 – Introduction to Practicum
Introduction to practicum prepares students with the necessary skills, knowledge and values required for completion of ECED 126 and 128. Students will accumulate theory and knowledge before applying it to practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent. Corequisites: ECED105
- Delivery Method: ? Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-129 – Introduction to Early Childhood Education
ECED 129 provides students with an introduction to the Early Childhood Education profession. The history of early childhood education in Canada and theoretical perspectives that compare and contrast Western and Indigenous views are explored. Regulatory requirements, play-based curriculum and pedagogy, assessing quality environments and practice, diversity, programs and services, and responsibilities of the Early Childhood Educator are discussed in detail. The Early Learning Framework is embedded in the course to help students understand how it informs their practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-137 – Creating Curriculum With Young Children 1
This course introduces participants to the foundations of creating curriculum using a hands on self-exploration approach. Participants explore a variety of ways to blend and balance literature, music, art, tactile/sensory and dramatic play. The emphasis is on expanding children’s initiatives in play-based environments.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
Year 1 – Semester 2 – Winter
CYFS-116 – Lifespan Development
This course explores the development of humans from conception to death. It includes physical, cognitive and psychosocial developmental domains. Students preparing to work in careers that involve other people need to clearly understand the complex, dynamic process of development throughout a person’s lifespan. This knowledge can provide students with insight into their own development and the development of those they will encounter in their personal and professional lives.
- Minimum Credits: 4
- Length: 60 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online, Blended
- Cost: $270.40
- Course Outline
ECED-126 – ECED Practicum 1
Practicum 1 provides students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and abilities in licensed early childhood settings. Students will begin to integrate theory to practice with children aged 30 months to 12 years.
- Minimum Credits: 4
- Length: 190 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent. Successful completion of ECED 105, ECED 113, ECED 125, ECED 129, ECED 137, CYFS 101 and CYFS 102. Corequisites: CYFS 103
- Delivery Method: ? Online
- Cost: $285.32
- Course Outline
ECED-131 – Principles of Program Development
Students gain a deeper understanding of BC’s provincial Early Childhood Education (ECE) licensing regulations and early learning framework. Students learn how to design inclusive play environments for young children and understand culturally diverse philosophies and practices.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in English 12 or equivalent and completion of ECED 129.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-138 – Creating Curriculum With Young Children 2
This course introduces participants to the foundations of creating curriculum using a hands on self-exploration approach. Participants explore a variety of ways to blend math, manipulatives, science, cooking and social studies. The emphasis is on expanding children’s initiatives in play-based environment.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
CYFS-103 – Guiding Across the Lifespan
This course focuses on effective ways to guide and understand the needs and behaviours of children, youth and adults. Learners will also explore the influences that inform their own behaviour and reflect on how these influences impact their understanding of themselves. A variety of theoretical, developmental and experiential perspectives will be explored.
- Minimum Credits: 4
- Length: 60 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent. CYFS 102: Observing & Recording
- Delivery Method: ? Online, Blended
- Cost: $270.40
- Course Outline
HSWR-106 – Families
This course provides early childhood educators and human service workers with an in-depth understanding of the diverse nature of families, the issues and challenges that can be barriers to family health, and how to assist in building skills to work collaboratively to support families.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $202.80
- Course Outline
Year 1 – Semester 3 – Spring
ECED-120 – Introduction of Professional Practice
Through this course, students will develop an understanding of the roles and responsibilities as professionals and approaches to practice. Students will apply regulatory requirements in their exploration of ethical challenges and certification. Students will research provincial programs and resources, and create budgets including payroll. Students will use aspects of the early learning framework to guide their practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: ECED 129 and ECED 131. Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
ECED-128 – Practicum 2
Practicum 2 provides students the opportunity to continue to build on their experiences and integrate theory to practice with children aged 30 months to 12 years in licensed early childhood settings. When possible, students are expected to participate in all aspects of programming under the guidance and supervision of program staff.
- Minimum Credits: 4
- Length: 190 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in English 12 or equivalent. Successful completion of ECED 105, ECED 113, ECED 125, ECED 126, ECED 129, ECED 131, ECED 137, ECED 138, CYFS 101, CYFS 102, CYFS 103, CYFS 116 and HSWR 106.
- Delivery Method: ? Online
- Cost: $285.32
- Course Outline
ECED-149 – Studies in Diversity
This course is designed as an introduction to studies in human diversity. It provides students with a foundation from which to explore diversity and examine the issues related to it.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? Online
- Cost: $213.99
- Course Outline
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Secondary school graduation or equivalent
- Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent
Non-academic Requirements
- Completion and submission of CYFS Application Package
- Completion of immunizations, documented by the immunization form in the admission package, or completion of Immunization Waiver Form (lack of immunizations may impact applicant’s access to practicum placements)
- Good command of oral and written English language
- Complete a criminal record check through the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Criminal Records Review Program
How to Apply for Admission:
- Complete a College of the Rockies Application Form. Submit required documentation confirming admission requirements.
- Qualified applicants will receive a CYFS Program Admissions Package. Once you receive the package, complete and return.
Your Costs
Tuition and Fees:
| Tuition: | $3,645.75 |
| Application Fee: | $30.00 |
| Student Association Fee: | $103.50 |
| Total | $3,779.25 |
*These prices are for domestic students and may not be 100% accurate. However, these estimates will give you an adequate idea of tuition and fees for our programs. These prices do not include textbook costs. All prices are subject to change. Tuition fees include an alumni fee, student activity fees, and a student technology fee. In certain cases a materials and supply fee may also be included. For more information, visit: Tuition and Fees.
Additional Info
Practicum Information
Where possible, students will complete their requirements for practicum in their own communities. If they are not able to complete practicum requirements in their own communities, students must be prepared to travel elsewhere, and will be responsible for their own transportation as well as any travel and living expenses.
Students may be able to complete their practicum in their current workplace if the supervisor and center meet workplace practicum requirements. One workplace practicum is permitted in the certificate program. Please talk with your instructor prior to starting your practicum about this option if you are interested.
Flexible Assessment
Credit can be awarded for one or more courses in this program through Flexible Assessment.
Assistant Early Childhood Educator
Completion of one of the following courses allows you to apply to the Ministry of Children and Family Development for a license to work as an Assistant in Early Childhood Education.
- ECED 113 – Health, Safety and Nutrition (3 credits) Fall Semester
- CYFS 116 – Lifespan Development (4 credits) Winter Semester
- CYFS 103 – Guiding Behaviours (4 credits) Winter Semester *this course requires CYFS 102 as a prerequisite.
Please note, you need to apply and meet the admission requirements; however, you do not need to be accepted into the program but meet the admission requirements and course prerequisites in order to take one of the above courses.
For further information regarding the role of Assistants, please contact The Ministry of Children and Family Development
Licensing Requirements
Completion of a program in Early Childhood Education from College of the Rockies is the first step in becoming a Certified Early Childhood Educator in BC.
Graduates of the diploma program who are currently registered with the BC Community Care Facilities Licensing Branch are eligible for a License to practice as an Infant/Toddler Educator and/or Special Needs Educator.
Information on additional licensing requirements:
BC Government – Early Childhood Education Registry
Phone: 250-356-6501 | Toll Free: 1-888-338-6622
Fax: 250-952-0765
Email: ECERegistry@gov.bc.ca
Employment Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for employment as child care professionals in group care and education settings with children from birth to age 12. These settings include child care centres, pre-school centres, schools, family day homes and private homes.
- Wage Range: $14.60 – $22.00 /hour
Sample Job Titles
- Preschool Teacher
- Special Needs Educator
- Family Child Care Operator
- Group Child Care Educator
- Supported Child Development Consultant
- Early Interventionist
- Infant Development Consultant
- Supported Child Development Support Workers
- Child Care Resource and Referral Consultant
- Family Literacy Coordinator
- Community Action Program for Children Consultant
- Self Employment Options
Early Childhood Education Certificate – Block Transfer Agreements
| To Institution | Program | |
|---|---|---|
| University of Victoria | Bachelor of Child and Youth Care Note: For transfer details please see University of Victoria Calendar or visit the BC Transfer Guide website. | |
| University of Victoria | Bachelor of Social Work Note: For transfer details please see University of Victoria Calendar or visit the BC Transfer Guide website. |
Program Details
Delivery Method:?
Blended, Online, Off-site
Credential:
Certificate
Categories:
Education, Health & Human Services
Interests:
Care for Others, Get in, Get out, Get a Job, Not Have a Desk Job, Start or Run Your Own Business, Teach Others, Work With My Hands
Contact Details
Cranbrook
2700 College Way,
Box 8500, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 5L7
Phone: 250-489-2751
Toll-free: 1-877-489-2687
Email: info@cotr.bc.ca
