Explore This Program
Program Overview
This diploma program is provincially approved and successful graduates will be able to apply for the Level 3 certification (ECE III) in Alberta.
Total Tuition: $15,495*Â
This program is licensed under Alberta’s Private Vocational Training Act (PVTA) .
In 2020, just over 52% of Canadian households with children between 0 and 5 years of age used some form of early learning, amounting to just over 1.2 million children. It’s undeniable that early childhood educators are needed and highly valued in Canada.
We understand you’ll want to hit the ground running in your career as soon as possible, which is why our diploma program is only 16 months long. We offer a condensed learning format, giving you the relevant information you need, delivered efficiently so you’ll be work-ready, faster.
The Early Learning and Childcare program is designed to give you the skills to help young children from all cultures and backgrounds grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Upon completion of this program, you will be able to:
- Create safe, healthy, and inclusive learning environments
- Facilitate sensory, intellectual, social, spiritual, and emotional development
- Promote positive relationships and conflict resolution
- Establish positive connections with children’s families and communities
- Create equitable, culturally relevant teaching environments
- Use effective program development and leadership skills to facilitate early childhood programming
- Demonstrate professional behaviour and work effectively as a member of a team
Respectful and fair treatment of children, colleagues, and families is at the heart of good childhood education. As an educator in this field, you’ll work to eliminate unfair biases, stereotypes, and barriers so children from all backgrounds and cultures feel valued and included.
Part of the Early Learning and Childcare diploma program focuses on teaching you how to create equitable, culturally relevant learning environments that encourage meaningful conversation and play. You’ll learn how to address the needs of Indigenous children and families and incorporate cultural touchpoints into learning activities. Not only that, you’ll have the privilege of helping children foster caring relationships and healthy, inclusive social interactions.
Program Delivery
Hybrid Learning
- A mix of online and on-campus learning.
- Enjoy the flexibility of remote learning without sacrificing valuable in-person training under the guidance of your instructors.
- You only come to the campus for scheduled in-person labs! The theory portion of the program is delivered online through Brightspace, our online learning platform.
- On campus classes are typically scheduled during the evenings and on Saturdays.
Visit our Hybrid Learning to learn more about this delivery format.
Campus Locations
This program is offered at multiple Robertson College campus locations. Select a campus below to view campus-specific schedule information and enrolment dates.
Select A Campus
Program Details
Quick Facts
Admission Requirements
Contact AdmissionsCareer Opportunities
Graduates of the Early Learning and Childcare program have the foundational knowledge and skills needed to qualify for positions as Early Childhood Educators in the early childhood sector. There are a variety of career opportunities available for graduates, including:
- Child Care Professionals
- Child and Youth Workers
- Home Care Providers
- Child Care Teachers
- Preschool TeachersÂ
- Nursery Workers
- Daycare Workers
- Childcare Center Assistant Directors
- Child Development Assistants
Graduates can expect to find jobs in a variety of institutions, including:
- Child Day Care Services
- Individual and Family Services
- Elementary and Secondary Schools
- Child and Youth Services
- Civic and Social Organizations
Lifetime Career Services
Even though you’ll leave Robertson once you graduate, we will support you throughout your career. Our team will help you with resume building, job hunting and interview preparation and will continue to guide you as you advance in your role.
Before you graduate, you’ll be paired with a career specialist in your field who will help you find a meaningful place to start your career. As a graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to student services that are committed to your success and helping you thrive.
Learn more about Lifetime Career Services.
Next Start Dates
To view enrolment dates for a specific location please select a Robertson College campus.
Select A CampusTopics of Study
Child Development (180 Hours)
Child Development 1 (60 Hours)
This course introduces the principles, processes and theories of human development. Influences on prenatal development and the newborn’s capacities are explored. The physical, cognitive, language, emotional and social domains of development and milestones reached through infancy and toddlerhood are the focus of this course.
Child Development 2 (40 Hours)
This course focuses on the development of the preschool child. The physical, cognitive, language, emotional and social domains of development and milestones of children ages two to six will be explored through theory, research and observation.
Child Development 3 (40 Hours)
This course involves the study of the development of the school age child and adolescent. Through the study of theory, research and observation, students will explore the physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional development and milestones of children ages six to twelve, as well as the stages of development that mark the transitions through adolescence.
Health and Well-being (40 Hours)
This course introduces students to the basic principles and practices of health promotion, nutrition, illness prevention and management, safety, and occupational health.
ELCC Programming (340 Hours)
Curriculum Approaches (60 Hours)
This course introduces students to the different approaches to early childhood education. Students will be introduced to the history of early childhood education development in Canada and the factors that have influenced this. Students will explore a variety of models and approaches to early childhood care.
Play-Based Learning (40 Hours)
This course introduces students to the value of play in children’s learning and development. The course examines how play changes as children reach each stage of development, the factors that influence play, and the early childhood educator’s role in supporting play.
Observation and Assessment (40 Hours)
This course focuses on observation and assessment. Documentation techniques and formats will be taught in this course. Students will practice these techniques by observing children and the environment in child care environment.Â
Designing Learning Experiences (40 Hours)
This course focuses on designing effective learning experiences within the early childhood environment by developing the necessary background, tools, and strategies. Students will explore the impact of the early childhood center’s philosophy, environment, materials, and resources on learning experiences.  Â
Early Childhood Literacy (40 Hours)
Early childhood educators require knowledge and understanding of how to promote literacy. This course develops an understanding of both theory and literacy and language development activities in an early childhood environment.
Early Childhood Numeracy (40 Hours)
Early childhood educators require knowledge and understanding of how to promote numeracy. This course develops an understanding of both theory and numeracy development activities in an early childhood environment.
Art, Music and Movement (40 Hours)
This course focuses on the importance of creative self-expression for the young child. Emphasis is on art experiences, movement and music that are appropriate to the developmental levels of children.Â
Science and the Natural Environment (40 Hours)
This course focuses on engaging children with science and the natural environment. This course helps early childhood educators develop strategies to help children engage with and make sense of the world around them.
Relationships (260 Hours)
Family Dynamics (60 Hours)
This course introduces students to different family structures and dynamics. The course develops also an understanding of the significance of family on the life of a child. Students will develop strategies to support families facing crisis and stress.
Introduction to Early Childhood Profession (40 Hours)
This course provides an overview of the field of early childhood education. Students will be introduced to the profession of early childhood education. Early learning program components, career options and the role and qualities of an early childhood educator will be explored.
Professionalism (40 Hours)
This course provides students with the knowledge essential to providing quality early childhood care and education by focusing on professional behaviors, ethical practice, and growth as advocates for the rights of children and families.
Understanding Child Abuse (40 Hours)
This course is an introduction to the Early Childhood Educator’s role and responsibilities in identifying, recording and responding; as well as educating for preventions, on behalf of children who may be victims of physical, emotional and sexual abuse or neglect. This will include the identification of personal feelings and responses to abuse.
Guiding Children’s Behavior Part I (40 Hours)
This course introduces students to the basic concepts related to guiding children’s behaviors. The course introduces strategies, processes, behaviors, and routines that support the development of a nurturing and respectful early childhood environment. Students will explore their own values regarding children’s behavior, learn guidance techniques, and develop an understanding of the early childhood educator’s role in fostering healthy child behaviors.
Guiding Children’s Behavior Part II (40 Hours)
This course builds upon Part I, as student will deepen their understanding of concepts related to guiding children’s behaviors. Students will examine and analyze strategies, processes, behaviors, and routines that support the development of a nurturing and respectful early childhood environment. They will reflect on their personal beliefs and values as they explore their personal approach to guidance.
ELCC Field Placement (800 Hours)
Field Placement 1 (100 Hours)
Field Placement 2 (100 Hours)
Field Placement 3 (100 Hours)
Field Placement 4 (100 Hours)
Field Placement 5 (200 Hours)
Field Placement 6 (200 Hours)
Related Courses (160 Hours)
The Indigenous Perspective, History and Culture (60 Hours)
This course introduces students to the principles of racism, inequity and exclusion as it pertains to Indigenous Peoples and will focus on building an awareness of Indigenous history and culture. ECE educators develop cultural awareness, cultural sensitivity and cultural competence to best support Indigenous children and families.
Leadership and Management in ELCC (60 Hours)
This course will prepare students to work as leaders, supervisors and managers of an ELCC facility. Students will learn how to hire and train staff, resolve conflict, oversee an operating budget, and manage a child wait list. They will also learn administrative tasks required of an ELCC manager such as payroll processes and staff scheduling. Finally, in this course, students will learn how to write funding proposals, reports and memos.
Interpersonal Communication(40 Hours)
This course provides students with a general introduction to the theory and principles of interpersonal communication. In this course, students will be given the opportunity to develop and practice skills to improve their communication effectiveness.
Financial Assistance & Funding
$14,995.00 Tuition + $500.00 Application Fee* = $15,495
The amounts listed are in Canadian (CAD) currency. Application fee is included in the total tuition and do not need to be paid at the time of registration.
There are a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we offer financial assistance and have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation. Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.
Questions about tuition & financial assistance?
Contact AdmissionsThe Distinction Between ECE II And ECE III In Alberta
According to the Certification Guide For Early Childhood Educators, in Alberta, the Early Learning and Child Care Act requires people who work in licensed child care programs to have provincial certification. Certification is how the provincial government reviews the education and abilities of child care staff.
Level 2 Early Childhood Educator:Â to be certified you must have completed:
- 1-year early learning and child care certificate program offered by an Alberta public college, or an approved educational equivalency
Level 3 Early Childhood Educator:Â to be certified you must have completed:
- 2-year early learning and child care diploma program offered by an Alberta public college, or an approved educational equivalency
Graduates of Robertson’s ELCC Certificate and Diploma programs who apply for child care certification in Alberta will be eligible for certification as a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator (formerly Child Development Worker) or a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator (formerly Child Development Supervisor), respectively.
Who Should Enroll?
It takes a special type of person to work in the childhood education sector. This program would be a good fit for students who have these characteristics.
You enjoy working with children. This is a must in this career path. You should be enthusiastic and passionate about working with children and want to make a difference in their lives.
You’re a patient person. Patience is key when working with youngsters. They have short attention spans and can be energetic for long periods of time, so it’s important to exercise patience and take every day in stride.
You’re ready to be active. Early childhood education is a physically-demanding career. You must be able to lift children and learning materials as well as move quickly to keep them safe.
You’re creative. The more creative you are, the easier a time you’ll have at crafting learning activities that interest children and keep their attention. It’s important to be a good observer and an analytical thinker.
You have strong interpersonal skills. All children are different and you may work with some that are more difficult than others. Showing compassion and empathy will help you work with those children and support them when they’re struggling.
You have strong communication skills. You must be able to communicate with children and their families, as well as actively listen.
You enjoy challenges. Every day will be different and not every day will be easy. You must be able to adapt and think quickly to resolve any issues as they come up.
Let's Get Started
Simply fill out the form below and one of our Student Advisors will provide any extra information you need and get your account activated as early as today.
Program Availability
This program is offered at multiple Robertson College campus locations. Select a campus below to view campus specific information, like schedule information and enrolment dates.