Yes. Mature students (21+) may qualify through the College Entrance Assessment and an interview.
If you're passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where children can grow and thrive, the Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Certificate Program at Keyano College is your first step toward a fulfilling career.
This one-year certificate blends theoretical learning with hands-on practicum placements, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge directly to early learning environments such as daycares, preschools, and family support settings. With a focus on play-based, child-centred practices, you'll graduate ready to nurture holistic development in young children.
Which Program Is Right for You?
Diploma vs. Certificate
Start with the Certificate if you're new to the field - gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience. Advance to the Diploma if you’ve completed Year 1 or already work in early learning and want to move into supervisory or administrative roles.
What You’ll Learn
Students of this Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Certificate Program will learn to:
- Plan and facilitate inclusive, play-based learning activities
- Promote healthy social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development
- Use strength-based strategies for guiding children’s behaviour
- Observe and document developmental progress
- Build supportive relationships with children, families, and communities
Career Opportunities
Upon graduation, you will be prepared to:
- Early Childhood Educator (Level 2)
- Daycare, preschool, or out-of-school care staff
- Day Home Provider
- Infant and Child Development Assistant
Admission Requirements
General Admission
- High school diploma (or equivalent)
- English 30-1 (minimum 50%) or English 30-2 (minimum 65%)
Mature Students (21+):
- May apply without a diploma
- Must meet English requirement above or pass College Entrance Assessment
English Language Proficiency
- TOEFL iBT: 79 (min. 19 in each section)
- IELTS: 6.0 overall
- CAEL: 60 | MELAB: 80 | Duolingo: 95 | PTE Academic: 50
Pre-Practicum Requirements
To participate in practicum placements, you must submit:
-
Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector from the RCMP (originals only and within three months of the start of practicum)
- Child Care First Aid certification (can be completed during Week 1)
- Three references (may be requested; non-family members only)
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Tuition and Fees
Fall Term: Tuition $2,200 + Fees approx. $471
Winter Term: Tuition $2,157 + Fees approx. $405.92
Spring Term: Tuition $1,512 + Fees approx. $189.36
Total Estimated Cost: $6,950.28 for one year (based on full-time enrolment)
Fees include health and dental, campus rec, SA fees, and technology fee. Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each term. Students may opt out of health and dental with proof of alternate coverage.
Subject to change. See Credit Calendar for full breakdown.
Year 1: $12,632.84
Year 2: $12,815.00
Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.
Lab fees and optional costs not included.
Sample Program Structure
Category Requirements
The certificate is completed over three terms. Practicum seminars and in-the-field placements are built into the schedule to give you real-world experience working with children.
Term 1
- CHSD 101: Child Development I
- CHSD 104: Guiding Children’s Behaviour
- CHSD 105: Personal Development & Interaction
- ELCC 106: Learning Through Play
- ELCC 110: Practicum I
- ELCC 123: Creative Experiences for Young Children
- ELCC 125: Practicum Seminar I
- ENGL 100: Written Composition
Year 1
Spring Term
- CHSD 201: Child Development II
- ELCC 102: Language & Literacy in Early Childhood
- ELCC 116: Nutrition, Health & Safety
- ELCC 206: Planning for Play
- ELCC 210: Practicum II
- ELCC 225: Practicum Seminar II
Important Notes
- ELCC 110 and 125 must be completed before ELCC 210 and 225
- CHSD 101 is a prerequisite for CHSD 201
- ELCC 106 is a prerequisite for ELCC 206
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take this program if I don’t have a high school diploma?
Do I need to complete a police check before the program starts?
Yes. A valid Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search is required before your first practicum.
Is the program recognized for certification?
Yes. This certificate leads to Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification in Alberta.
The departments are eager to welcome you to the College, read the Welcome Letter and the Handbook for your program below:
Ready to Start Your Early Childhood Education Journey?
Inspire, guide, and support the next generation.
Reach out to our Human Services team to discuss future intakes or pathways into the diploma.
Email: Human.Services@keyano.ca
Call: 780-791-4801