Early Childhood Care and Learning Diploma
Diploma
| Type | Part Time Full Time |
|---|---|
| Length | 2 years |
| Campus | Prince George Quesnel |
| Delivery | In Class |
| Fees* |
Estimated at $12,552.22.
International Check fee schedule
*All fees are an estimate. |
| Starting Semesters | Fall 2026 |
Overview
Earn a Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Learning from CNC. This program will provide you the opportunities to work with infants and toddlers or children requiring extra support.
Early childhood 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.
The diploma will prepare you with skills to work with infants and toddlers and children with diverse abilities.
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
- Aboriginal supported child care programs
- Infant and family development programs
- Infant Toddler 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.
- Attachment theories
- Infant & Toddler development
- Health, safety, and nutrition
- Family Centered Practice
- Administration and Leadership
- Advocacy
Graduates of the diploma can apply for a certificate to practice as an Infant/Toddler Educator and/or a Special Needs Educator from the Early Childhood Educator Registry in BC.
Courses
The Early Childhood Care and Learning Diploma 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. Graduates are eligible to apply to the ECE Registry (Ministry of Children and Family Development) for the following credentials: - ECE Certificate - Infant Toddler Certificate - Special Needs Certificate
Required courses
ECCL-151
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
An overview of the contemporary theories in growth and development from 24 months to five years of age are introduced. Growth and development in the key developmental domains including social/emotional, physical, cognitive, language, and spiritual development are examined as part of ongoing life span development. Strategies for identifying developmental milestones and applying resources as needed.ECCL-154
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course focuses on historic and current theories that influence the field of Early Childhood Education (ECE), including Canadian policies aimed at assimilating Indigenous people, the role of play, and perspectives that reinforce contextually appropriate practice.ECCL-165
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Based on the philosophy that natural play provides the foundation for children's growth and development, this experiential course focuses on curriculum planning and teaching strategies. At the end of this course, the learner will be able to develop and implement programming plans for curriculum areas such as art, storytelling, music, and movement. The focus will be on developing an educational philosophy through experiential learning and self-reflection.ECCL-166
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
The learner acquires knowledge, experience, and skill in planning, implementing, and evaluating learning environments for groups of children based on educational philosophy and research. The BC Early Learning Framework is used as a guide for reflection and evaluation.ECCL-170
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course introduces the learner to a variety of methods for objectively observing, recording, and interpreting child behaviour for evaluation and assessment purposes using a licensed child care facility as a lab setting.ECCL-172
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Learners will examine the overall health, safety, and nutritional needs of children from infancy through to five years of age. Emphasis is placed on the role and responsibilities of the educator in establishing and maintaining safe nurturing environments for children in cooperation with families. This is achieved with an understanding of licensing regulations, policies, and practices promoting the health and well-being of children. Learners will also gain an understanding of how their own wellness impacts their practice.ECCL-178
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Professional interactions support the learner's understanding of how to develop, maintain, and navigate workplace relationships. Topics examined in the course include perception of self and others, verbal and non-verbal communication, conflict management, confidentiality, and establishing professional boundaries.ECCL-252
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course is an introductory look at the administrative aspects of operating a child care centre at the local, provincial, and federal level. The learner is introduced to issues encountered by child care administrators and explores what it means to be a leader.ECCL-255
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Utilizing knowledge of the growth and development of children under 36 months, learners apply the principles of responsive care to nurturing relationships, program planning, and designing environments.ECCL-256
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course provides an overview of inclusive child care with a focus on children from birth through five. The learner applies knowledge of growth and development, culture, and family dynamics to create a holistic view of the child. A variety of assessment materials and intervention techniques for working with children who have diverse abilities are explored.ECCL-272
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course focuses on the health, safety, and nutritional requirements for children with exceptionalities in inclusive early learning environments. The interconnectedness between caregiver and child, health and wellness, is explored.ECCL-275
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
The interrelationships between home and the child care program are examined to develop family centered curriculum that reflects the diverse nature of today's families. Strategies are presented to assist the learner in developing effective parent-educator communication.ENGL choice
ENGL-103
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
A study of grammar, composition, and style. A vigorous program of essay-writing plus a variety of writing assignments or exercises dealing with specific problems in essay-writing. Strongly recommended for students who wish to improve their writing skills.ENGL-113
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel, Mackenzie |
Description
ENGL 113 introduces students to the principles and practices of effective written and oral communications in English as applied in current academic, business, and technical contexts in university course levels. Instruction will emphasize grammar, punctuation, style, and presentation as important elements applied to a wide variety of writing and speaking situations: e-mail, letters, reports, and instructional and persuasive talks. Research strategies will be practiced.Required Practicum choice
ECCL-295
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Intersession Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Under mentorship of a licensed Infant/Toddler Early Childhood Educator the learner plans, implements, and evaluates curriculum for the diverse needs of infants and toddlers. The learner takes on a leadership role by guiding and facilitating daily experiences for children and their families. Learners are required to attend a weekly two-hour seminarECCL-299
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Intersession Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Under mentorship of a Special Needs Early Childhood Educator the learner plans, implements, and evaluates curriculum which respects and reflects diversity. The learner takes on a leadership role by guiding and facilitating daily experiences for children with diverse abilities and their families. Learners are required to attend a weekly two-hour seminarECCL-150 and ECCL-251
ECCL-150
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Occasionally |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
An overview of the contemporary theories in growth and development from conception to 24 months are introduced. Genetics and environmental factors affecting development at the prenatal, neonatal, infant, and toddler stages are examined. Growth and development in the key developmental domains including social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language are discussed as part of ongoing life span development.ECCL-251
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course provides learners with a foundation for designing contextually appropriate inclusive programs for infants, toddlers, and children with exceptionalities. Through a strength-based lens, learners utilize methods of observing and recording to assess children's developmental progress as a tool for early detection and intervention. Learners evaluate early care and learning environments and the impact of environment on development.ECE-251
ECCL-156
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course examines a theoretical framework of guidance principles and techniques which support children's optimal development. Emphasis is placed on responding to the needs of the individual, promoting positive self-concept, fostering pro-social behaviour, and addressing the factors that may impact behaviours.ECCL-167
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Learners examine the role of the environment on children's growth and learning. Emphasis is placed on using pedagogical narrations to understand and respond to children's interests and needs. The Early Learning Frameworks are used to create and evaluate environments.ECCL-175
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course will examine the interrelationships between the home and the child care program. Attention is given to developing an effective culturally inclusive parent program curriculum to support the diverse nature of today's families. The learner will investigate the status of the Canadian family and the issues confronting it. The role of the Early Childhood Educator as an advocate for children and families will be emphasized.ECCL-190
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
The practicum introduces the learner to the early care and learning environment. Learners gain practical experience working with young children and families while working under a licensed early childhood educator. Under supervision the learner is given the opportunity to plan, implement, and evaluate contextually appropriate curriculum activities. Learners are required to attend a weekly two-hour seminar.ECCL-195
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Intersession Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
The learner is active in curriculum planning and guiding children's behaviour during this intermediate level practicum. Beginning supervision skills are developed while learners work with large and small groups of children. Learners are required to attend a weekly two-hour seminar.ECCL-199
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Leadership, evaluation and integrating theory into practice are the focus of this practicum. The learner amalgamates knowledge from previous practicums and early childhood care learning courses in Practicum III to guide and facilitate daily experiences for large and small groups of children and their families. Learners are required to attend a weekly two-hour seminar.Entry Requirements
Fall 2027 Intake and Onwards
For applications to the Fall 2027 intake (September start), you must meet the following requirements:
Note 1: Students must complete a provincial Schedule B criminal record search because there is a practicum component involving work with vulnerable people. Students are responsible for all costs incurred. A search which identifies relevant criminal convictions may prevent students from registering for practicum. To graduate from the Early Childhood Care and Learning program, each practicum must be successfully completed. RCMP criminal record checks are not accepted.
Note 2: Students can apply for an Early Childhood Certificate to Practice with the ECE Registry after completing the 100 level courses.
Note 3: Students can complete either ECCL 295 or ECCL 299 to receive a diploma. Graduates may wish to return in a fall semester and complete either ECCL 295 or ECCL 299 to meet the ECE Registry requirements for an Infant/Toddler certificate to practice or a Special Needs certificate to practice; however, they will not receive further credentialing from CNC.
Note 4: If students have completed an Early Childhood Care and Learning Program, or equivalent, at another post-secondary institution contact the Articulation Officer at transfercredit@cnc.bc.ca to discuss transferring credits towards a CNC diploma.
All costs associated with certifications, courses, and/or documentation requirements are the student’s responsibility
Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our options.
Limited admission
A program with a limited number of seats per intake and is on a “first qualified, first admitted” basis.
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Invest in your future
This program is estimated at $12,552.22.
These costs are an estimate. Student fees vary by campus. Check the for more details.
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.
Salaries and employment
Looking for a job? Check the student employment opportunities board.
Get More Information
Highlights
13,010
Projected Job Openings
For Early Childhood Educators and Assistants from 2025-2035
89%
Employed in Permanent Positions
(BC Student Outcomes)
