Yukon College Home Programs Early Childhood Development

Early Childhood Development

School of Health Education and Human Services
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t. 867.668.8845 f. 867.668.8805

Program Overview

The objective of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) program is to meet the need identified by the community for the education of Early Childhood educators. The goal of the ECD program is to provide opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide early learning opportunities and child care for young children and families. Throughout the program, students learn to assist children in all areas of growth and development.

Required Courses

The ECD certificate consists of 13 courses, including English, two field placements, and one College-level, three-credit elective. The program may be pursued on a full- or part-time basis.

Electives

The ECD diploma consists of 27 courses, including English, four field placements and three college-level, three-credit electives. The program may be pursued on a full- or part-time basis. Completion of ECD certificate program, and:

Electives

Please consult a program advisor for current and future offerings.

Admission Requirements

     
  • high school graduation with English 12; OR 
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  • Mature Student Status with acceptable scores on the College Assessments or the GED® test

Other Requirements

     
  • acceptable criminal records check
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  • current immunization and medical clearance
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  • a letter outlining the applicant’s interest in the program, including related work and/or volunteer experience.

Transferability

The Early Childhood Development program transfers to the following institutions:

     
  • Grant MacEwan Community College, Edmonton, AB
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  • Lakeland College, Vermillion, AB
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  • Lethbridge Community College, Lethbridge, AB
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  • Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB
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  • University of Victoria School of Child and Youth Care, Victoria, BC (with university-level English and electives).

Employment

ECD program graduates are qualified to work as early childhood educators in child care centres, family day homes, and preschools; as program assistants in child development centres and child care facilities; as educational assistants in kindergarten and the early grades; as nannies, family support workers, and as child care licensing officers.

Duration

Certificate program: One year of full-time study (13 courses, 37 credit hours)
Diploma program: Two years of full-time study (27 courses, 75 credit hours)

Ancillary Fees

For information on program fees and ancillary fees related to courses, please see the Tuition & Fees page.

Options For The Mature Student

Due to the practical nature of the ECD program, a number of mature students enter with years of related experience. A variety of methods have been developed to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills and thus receive credit for prior knowledge gained in the field. These include:

     
  • Challenge Exams The ECD program has developed Challenge Exams which allow students to receive credit for prior knowledge gained in the field. Students must be enrolled in the ECD program to be eligible to challenge any ECD course. For more information, contact the instructor/co-ordinator at 867.668.8793.

Outside Courses

A student may be eligible for advanced standing if they have completed an equivalent college course at another accredited post-secondary institution.