Early Childhood Care and Learning Certificate

Certificate
Also available as:
TYPE:
  • Part Time
  • Full Time
LENGTH: 1 year
CAMPUS: Burns Lake - Fort St. James - Mackenzie - Prince George - Quesnel - Vanderhoof
FEES: Estimated at $4,760
START DATE: Fall 2025 - Fall 2025
DELIVERY:
  • In Class
  • Some courses are available online
  • Overview
  • Courses
  • Location & Dates
  • Entry Requirements
  • Fees

Overview

Finishing a program in early childhood education is an important step towards becoming licensed to practise as an Early Childhood Educator in BC.

Childhood care and education is a naturally rewarding and challenging career. It is full of opportunities to help children and families learn and grow.

A natural ability around young children is only the first step in the career journey. Professional caregivers face a variety of behavioural, organizational, and personal challenges. This program will prepare you with the skills and knowledge you need to help every child get the most from their time spent in your care.

Careers

Graduates in Early Childhood Care and Learning may go on to work with young children in a variety of settings, including:

  • Child care centres
  • Preschools
  • Supported Child Development programs
  • Community Care Licensing Officer
  • Aboriginal supported child care programs
  • Infant and family development programs
  • Social service agencies
  • Libraries
  • School district StrongStart programs
  • Child development centres
  • Owner/operator of early learning programs

What you will learn

The Early Childhood Care and Learning program provides comprehensive practical skills and theoretical understanding.

  • Growth and development theory
  • Historical and Contemporary Early Learning
  • Health, safety, and nutrition
  • Working effectively with parents and coworkers
  • Curriculum development
  • Responding to the unique interests and needs of children
Graduates will also have the option of additional training to specialize as either an Infant and Toddler Educator or Special Needs Educator.

Early Childhood Care and Learning Certificate Courses

The Early Childhood Care and Learning Certificate Program provides students with the competencies and knowledge required to care for and educate children from birth to five years of age, and to work collaboratively with children, families, professionals, and communities. Upon completion of the certificate, graduates are eligible to apply to the ECE Registry (Ministry of Education and Child Care) for the following credentials: ECE Certificate

Required courses

COURSE CODE COURSE TITLE CREDITS LENGTH
ECCL-150 Developmental Perspectives I 3 15 weeks
ECCL-151 Developmental Perspectives II 3 15 weeks
ECCL-154 Historical Contemporary ECE 3 15 weeks
ECCL-156 Care and Guidance 3 15 weeks
ECCL-165 Responsive Curriculum I 3 15 weeks
ECCL-166 Responsive Curriculum II 3 15 weeks
ECCL-167 Responsive Environments 3 15 weeks
ECCL-170 Observing and Recording 3 15 weeks
ECCL-170L Observing and Recording 0 15 weeks
ECCL-172 Health and Wellness 3 15 weeks
ECCL-178 Professional Interactions 3 15 weeks
ECCL-175 Families 3 15 weeks
ECCL-190 Practicum 1 3 15 weeks
ECCL-190P Practicum 1 0 15 weeks
ECCL-195 Practicum II 4 15 weeks
ECCL-195P Practicum II 0 15 weeks
ECCL-199 Practicum III 3 15 weeks

Locations & Dates

CNC programs have varying lengths and start dates to meet your needs, and are offered across multiple campuses where possible. Don’t see the campus you’re looking for? Check back with us soon as this page is updated throughout the school year.

START DATE CAMPUS DELIVERY LENGTH
Fall 2025 Vanderhoof Online 1 year
Fall 2025 Prince George In Class 1.5 years
Fall 2025 Quesnel Online 1.5 year
Fall 2025 Mackenzie Online 1 year
Fall 2025 Fort St. James Online 1 year
Fall 2025 Burns Lake Online 1 year

Entry Requirements

Successful completion of Grade 12 (with English 12 or English 12: First Peoples with a minimum “C” grade) or equivalent.

Note 1: Upon acceptance into the program, you must provide documents certifying current immunization and TB screening, in addition to a Self-Health Report. These must be on official forms that are included in the ECCL information package and must be submitted prior to the start of the program.

Note 2: You’ll have to undergo a criminal record search, Schedule B, through the Ministry of Justice. Any costs are your responsibility.

Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our Academic Upgrading options.

Invest in your future

The estimated cost for this program is $4,760. 

  • Semester 1: $2,173
  • Semester 2: $1,913
  • ECCL 199: $674

These costs are an estimate and do not include books. Costs may change without notice. Student fees vary by campus.

Books for this program can be purchased from the bookstore.

Paying for college

We're here to help. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries through CNC. We can also help you find loans and other funding. Visit Financial aid to find out how. 

Salaries and employment

Looking for a job? Check the student employment opportunities board