Yes. You must be working at a licensed childcare centre before beginning your first practicum placement.
The Applied Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Program at Keyano College offers a dynamic, hands-on pathway into the childcare field. Designed in an apprenticeship-style format, this one-year certificate blends in-class learning with on-the-job experience in a licensed childcare centre.
Students gain foundational knowledge in child development, play-based learning, and guidance strategies, while immediately applying what they learn in real-world settings. This unique format builds confidence, reinforces best practices, and prepares you to support children’s early growth and development from day one.
You must be employed at a licensed childcare centre before your first practicum.
What You’ll Learn
Students in this program develop the essential skills to guide and support young children in nurturing, inclusive environments.
You will explore:
- Child development and behavioural guidance
- Planning for play-based and creative learning
- Language and literacy development
- Communication, observation, and professional composition
- Work-integrated learning through five progressive practicum placements
Career Opportunities
Graduates are eligible for Level 2 Early Childhood Educator Certification and may work in roles such as:
- Early Childhood Educator
- Preschool Assistant
- Childcare Program Facilitator
- Daycare Staff Member
Admission Requirements
High School Diploma (or equivalent)
- Minimum of 50% in English 30-1 or 65% in English 30-2
Mature Students (21+)
- May be admitted following an interview and successful College Entrance Assessment
English Language Proficiency (if applicable)
- TOEFL iBT: 79 (min. 19 in each section)
- IELTS: 6.0 overall
- CAEL: 60 | MELAB: 80 | Duolingo: 95 | PTE: 50
Pre-Practicum Requirements
- Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector from the RCMP (originals only and within three months of the start of practicum)
- Child Care First Aid (may be completed in Week 1)
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Tuition and Fees
2023–2024 Estimated Total: $6,950.28
Fall Term: $2,671.00
Winter Term: $2,577.92
Spring Term: $1,701.36
Tuition is subject to change. Students must opt out of health/dental if already covered. Fees are due 10 business days before term start.
Sample Program Structure
Category Requirements
Course selection may vary depending on your intended major and transfer destination. Below is a sample two-year plan:
Term I
- CHSD 101 – Child Development I (3 credits)
- CHSD 104 – Guiding Children’s Behaviour (3 credits)
- ELCC 131 – Work Integrated Learning I (3 credits)
- ENGL 100 – Written Composition (3 credits)
- ELCC 132 – Work Integrated Learning II (3 credits)
Term II
- ELCC 106 – Learning Through Play (3 credits)
- ELCC 123 – Creative Experiences for Young Children (3 credits)
- ELCC 133 – Work Integrated Learning III (3 credits)
Term III
- CHSD 201 – Child Development II (3 credits)
- ELCC 102 – Language and Literacy in Early Childhood (3 credits)
- ELCC 134 – Work Integrated Learning IV (3 credits)
- ELCC 206 – Planning for Play (3 credits)
- ELCC 135 – Work Integrated Learning V (3 credits)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be employed in childcare before starting the program?
Can I apply as a mature student without a high school diploma?
Yes. Applicants aged 21+ may be admitted based on a placement assessment and interview.
Will I qualify for Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification?
Yes. Graduates are eligible for certification through Alberta Children’s Services.
Can I work full-time while taking this program?
Since the program is structured around employment in childcare, many students work full-time. However, coursework and assessments still require time and commitment.
Stay Connected
Launch your career in early childhood education
Take the next step toward a meaningful career supporting children’s growth and development.
Contact us: Human.Services@keyano.ca
Call: 780-791-4801
Next Intake: Fall 2025