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
- Dayhome worker
- 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 Check
- Child Intervention Record Check
- Standard First Aid/CPR/AED and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
- Three non-family references
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Program Structure
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
Term 2
- 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 110/125 and ELCC 210/225 must be taken concurrently
- CHSD 101 is a prerequisite for CHSD 201
- ELCC 106 is a prerequisite for ELCC 206
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.
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:
Tuition and Fees
Duration: 1 year
Eligible for Domestic and International Students
| Tuition & Fees (2025–26) | ||
| Term | Domestic Students | International Students |
| Fall | $2,724.00 | $7,212.00 |
| Winter | $2,724.00 | $7,212.00 |
| Annual Total | $5,448.00 | $14,424.00 |
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 for 2025-2026.
- *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.
Ready to Start Your Early Childhood Education Journey?
Inspire, guide, and support the next generation.
Apply online at ApplyAlberta
Or contact us directly at 780-791-4801 | admissions@keyano.ca