The Centre collégial de l'Alberta offers two programs in early childhood education :

A one-year program that leads to the Government of Alberta’s Child Development Worker certification.

A two-year program (the first year of which consists of the same courses as the certificate program), which leads its graduates to the Government of Alberta's Child Development Supervisor certification.

Introduction

The early childhood education programs are based on the application of the latest findings in child development research. Our curriculum focuses on teaching the child as an individual learning to appreciate, understand and master their environment. Our program is specifically adapted to the francophone minority context and focused on the child's language development in a multicultural francophone context. The program's teachers will also be able to offer you the benefit of their many years of experience in Francophone daycare services or in an early childhood center in a minority setting.

Practicum

The Early Childhood Education programs’ formula combines theoretical instruction with practical placements in daycare centers or Francophone early childhood centers. 

Practicums will normally have to be completed in person. 

Certification

Upon successful completion of the first Early Childhood Education course, students may apply for certification as a Childcare Development Assistant (Level 1) with the Government of Alberta. The first course in the program is condensed to allow students to apply for certification earlier and work while studying. 

Upon successful completion of the certificate (the first year of EPE, 10 courses and 2 practicum placements), students may apply for certification as a Childcare Development Worker with the Government of Alberta (Level 2).

Upon successful completion of the diploma (second year of EPE, 20 courses and 4 practicum placements), students may apply for certification as a Childcare Development Supervisor with the Government of Alberta (Level 3).

Students are encouraged to apply for certification as soon as they are eligible. Doing so allows you to access $1,000 per year in professional development scholarships. In addition, certification makes it easier for students to obtain employment and gain work experience. 

Employment Opportunities

• Early Childhood Educator
• Education Assistant
• Specialized Educator
• Daycare Coordinator
• Compliance Officer
• Licensing Agent
• Educational Support Agent

For more information on careers in the early childhood field, including salary information and requirements for certification, visit the ALIS Alberta occupational info Early Childhood Educator website.

 

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Choice of face-to-face or online courses

Courses in this program are offered online or in-class. The choice is yours!

Online courses
The online education option utilizes the University of Alberta's state-of-the-art training tools by offering real-time virtual classrooms. The eClass e-learning platform allows students to learn and collaborate in a convenient and efficient manner.

Face-to-face
Courses can also be taken in person at Campus Saint-Jean, an immersive francophone environment.

Full-time or part-time studies

Full-time
Courses in the ECE program can be taken full time and the program completed the minimum of 1 year of the certificate and 2 years for the diploma. This is normally equivalent to 5 courses in each of the fall and winter semesters.

Reduced course load
Courses in this program can also be taken three or four courses per semester, to reduce the course load while extending the length of the program. The program must be completed within three years of admission. 

Fall Admission

Fall (September)
The entry in September is more common. The deadline for applications is April 1st.

Winter (January)
Admission for the winter semester is suspended indefinitely.