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
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.