Early Learning and
Child Care Diploma

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Credential

Diploma

Length

2 years (5 terms)

Delivery

In-person

Work Integrated Learning

Practicum placements

International Student

Accepted | PGWP Eligible
CIP: 19.0709

The Early Learning and Child Care Diploma prepares you to support children’s development and create engaging, inclusive learning environments. You’ll build skills in program planning, child development, guidance, leadership, and working with families and communities. Through classroom learning and hands-on practicum experiences, you’ll be prepared for a rewarding career in a variety of early learning and child care settings.

Upcoming Intakes

Intakes Domestic Students International Students
Winter 2027 No Intake No Intake
Fall 2027 Open Open
Winter 2028    

i Intake availability is subject to change. Apply early to secure your spot.

What You'll Learn in Early Learning & Child Care

A boy and a girl icon

Support Children's Growth

Learn how to support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through everyday interactions.

Color palette and a brush

Plan Fun Learning Activities

Create engaging experiences that encourage children to explore, learn, and build confidence.

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Work with Children and Families

Build strong relationships with children, families, and coworkers while creating a welcoming environment.

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Create Safe Learning Spaces

Learn how to guide children's behaviour and create spaces where every child feels supported and included.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the Early Learning and Child Care Diploma Program, you'll be well-prepared for leadership and specialized roles in early childhood education. This credential opens doors to supervisory positions and provides the qualifications needed to take your career to the next level in Alberta’s growing child care sector.

Child Care Program Supervisor Early Childhood Educator Preschool Supervisor Family Day Home Operator Out-of-School Care Program Coordinator

Graduates may also be eligible to apply for Level 3 Child Development Supervisor Certification through the Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office.

An early childhood educator helps a child choose coloured pastels during an art activity in a classroom.

Program Details

Year 1 Entry

High School Diploma (or equivalent):

You must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) with:

  • A minimum of 50% in English 30-1 OR
  • A minimum of 65% in English 30-2 

Mature Students (21+):

Mature students (students who are 21 years or older) with less than a high school diploma are encouraged to apply. Applicants will be considered after their overall strengths have been determined through a combination of an interview with ELCC staff and the College Entrance Assessment.

English Language Proficiency (if applicable):

  • TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 79 with no score below 19
  • IELTS Academic: minimum overall band score of 6.0
  • CAEL: minimum score of 60
  • MELAB: minimum score of 80
  • Duolingo: minimum score of 100
  • PTE (Academic): minimum score of 50

Year 2 Entry

Applicants must have one of the following:

  • An Early Learning and Child Care Certificate (or equivalent) OR
  • A Level 2 equivalency, as recognized by the Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office, may be eligible if applicants provide proof of competency in the following early learning courses: CHSD 104, CHSD 105, ELCC 106, and ELCC 206, and have equivalent practicum experience in an early learning setting.

All applicants will be asked to complete:

  • A Program Applicant Information package
  • A pre-entry interview with the Chair of Human Services or designate

Year 1

Year 1 – Term 1
Course Code Course Title Credits
CHSD 101 Child Development I 3
CHSD 104 Guiding Children’s Behaviour 3
CHSD 105 Personal Development & Interaction 2
ELCC 106 Learning Through Play 3
ELCC 110

Practicum I

 4
ELCC 123

Creative Experiences for Young Children

 3
ELCC 125

Practicum Seminar I

 1
ENGL 100

Written Composition

 3
Year 1 – Term 2
Course Code Course Title Credits
CHSD 201 Child Development II 3
ELCC 102 Language and Literacy in Early Childhood 3
ELCC 116 Nutrition, Health & Safety 2
ELCC 206 Planning for Play 3
ELCC 210 Practicum II 5
ELCC 225 Practicum Seminar II 1

Year 2

Year 2 – Term 1
Course Code Course Title Credits
ELCC 330 Ecology of the Family 3
ELCC 331 Understanding Children’s Behaviour 3
ELCC 332 Inclusion in Child Care Settings 3
ELCC 334

Practicum III

 4
ELCC 335

Practicum Seminar III

 1
Year 2 – Term 2
Course Code Course Title Credits
ELCC 333 Environments & Programming 3
ELCC 340 Anti-Bias Education in Child Care 3
ELCC 341 Child Care Organizations & Administration 3
ELCC 342 Supporting Children & Families in Indigenous Contexts 3
ELCC 344 Practicum IV 4
ELCC 345 Practicum Seminar IV 1
Year 2 – Term 3
Course Code Course Title Credits
ELCC 343 Interpersonal Relationships, Ethics & Team Dynamics 3
ELCC 350 Infants & Toddlers OR ELCC 351 School Aged Care 3

Please Note:

Keyano College reserves the right to modify the syllabus, curriculum, or schedule of any course/program, or to cancel a course/program entirely, at any time and for any reason. Such changes may be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances, regulatory requirements, or to ensure the highest quality of education.

Students will be notified of any significant changes as soon as possible. Keyano College is not responsible for any inconvenience or disruption caused by these changes. It is the responsibility of the students to stay informed about any updates or modifications to their courses.

Tuition & Fees (2026–27)
Term Domestic Students International Students
Fall $2,778.00 $7,356.00
Winter $2,778.00 $7,356.00
Annual Total $5,556.00 $14,712.00

Please Note:

  • These estimates are based on 100% enrolment for all semesters and do not include mandatory laboratory fees. Laboratory fees can range from $35-$135.
  • *Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage - deadlines can be found at StudentCare website.
    ** Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.

For more information view the Keyano College Credit Calendar.

Refunds, Withdrawals, and Deposits

For information about withdrawals, tuition refunds, program cancellations, and deposit policies, please refer to the Refund Policy page.

Throughout the diploma, you'll complete four practicums in licensed early learning and child care settings. Each placement gives you the opportunity to apply your classroom learning while working directly with children, families, and educators. As you progress through the program, you'll take on more responsibility and gain experience supporting children's development, planning learning activities, creating inclusive environments, and working as part of an early learning team. Practicum seminars are included to help you reflect on your experiences and connect them to your coursework.

Pre-Practicum Requirements:

The following documentation must be submitted by the document deadline established by the department:

  • Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Check
  • Child Intervention Record Check issued by Alberta Children and Family Services  
  • Heart & Stroke Health Care Provider Standard First Aid/CPR/AED

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certifications may be required prior to practicum. Students will be responsible to obtain these certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The Diploma builds on the ELCC Certificate. You can enter Year 2 if you’ve completed the Certificate or have equivalent Level 2 Child Development Worker certification and relevant coursework/practicum experience.

Level 2 (Child Development Worker) is typically granted after completing a certificate program. Level 3 (Child Development Supervisor) requires a diploma and qualifies you to take on leadership or administrative roles in licensed child care programs.

Many students balance part-time work with their studies. Some courses may be available in the evening or online, and practicum placements offer flexible learning opportunities. Spring electives are also available for students already employed in child care settings.

Yes, you may be eligible for direct entry into Year 2 if you have Level 2 Child Care Certification, can demonstrate competency in the required courses (CHSD 104, CHSD 105, ELCC 106, and ELCC 206), and have equivalent practicum experience in an early learning setting.

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Have questions about applying? Contact admissions@keyano.ca or 780-791-4801.

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