36 Weeks
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Develop comprehensive skills to design and implement educational programs that promote the holistic development of young children
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Shape the Future Through Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program at Western Community College prepares students to become proficient educators in early learning settings. The curriculum emphasizes understanding developmental milestones, creating effective curricula, and assessing children’s progress..
- In-depth study of child development and learning theories.
- Curriculum planning and assessment strategies.
- Field placements for practical experience in early learning environments.
Next Intakes
Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.
Career Opportunities in CHILDCARE
Become an Essential Member of the Childcare Workforce
$25*+$6
Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate + Govt. TOP UP
*Based on Canada Job Bank
Field placements provide hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are ready to foster positive learning experiences for young children
- Early Childhood Educator: Lead educational activities in preschools and childcare centers.
- Child Development Consultant: Advise on programs and policies supporting child development.
- Family Support Worker: Assist families in nurturing their children’s growth and learning.
Why Study at Western Community College
Western Community College offers students an inclusive and vibrant learning environment, with dedicated support services to ensure your academic success and personal well-being.
- Installment-based, low tuition fee.
- Choose weekday, weekend, or evening classes to fit your schedule.
- Part-time or full-time class schedule.
- Free CLB preparation classes (*Conditions Apply).
Begin Your Path in CHILDCARE Career
Admission Requirements
Grade 12 or Mature Student Status (19 years of age or more).
Language Proficiency Requirements: To demonstrate language proficiency, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:
Option 1: Secondary Education Evidence that three years of full-time secondary education (Grades 8-12) have been successfully completed in English in a country where English is one of the principal languages. This includes successful completion of a BC Adult Graduation program. The student needs to have a minimum of English 10 or higher with a minimum Grade C or higher.
Option 2: Post-Secondary Education Evidence that two years of full-time post-secondary education have been completed in the program’s language of instruction at an accredited institution in a country where the language of instruction is one of the principal languages. Language development (ELL) courses cannot be included.
Option 3: Standardized Language Test Achievement of minimum scores on a recognized standardized language test. Test results should be valid at the time of enrollment.
| Name of English language assessment/test | Minimum score(s)/level(s)* |
|---|---|
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic | Minimum overall score of 5.5 (no less than 5.0 in any module) |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT | Minimum overall score of 46 |
| Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) | Minimum overall score of 40 |
| Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) | Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, and Writing 5. |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | Minimum overall score of 95 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic | Minimum overall score of 43 |
| Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First exam (FCE) Institutions may include other Cambridge Qualifications at a higher level (i.e., C2 Proficiency (CPE)). | Minimum overall score of 160 or “C” |
| Cambridge Linguaskill | Minimum overall B2 level |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | Minimum overall B2 level |
| The Michigan English Test (MET) | Minimum overall B2 level |
| iTEP Academic | Minimum overall score of 3.5 |
| EIKEN | Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1 |
The following countries are recognized for education completed in English:
| American Samoa | Dominica | Lesotho | St. Kitts & Nevis |
| Anguilla | Falkland Islands | Liberia | St. Lucia |
| – | Fiji | Malta | St. Vincent & the Grenadines |
| Australia | Gambia | Mauritius | Tanzania |
| Bahamas | Ghana | Montserrat | Trinidad & Tobago |
| Barbados | Gibraltar | New Zealand | Turks & Caicos Islands |
| Belize | Grenada | Nigeria | Uganda |
| Bermuda | Guam | Seychelles | United Kingdom |
| Botswana | Guyana | Sierra Leone | US Virgin Islands |
| British Virgin Islands | Ireland | Singapore | USA |
| Canada | Jamaica | South Africa | Zambia |
| Cayman Islands | Kenya | St. Helena | Zimbabwe |
Apply Now
Take the next step toward your future!
Gain the skills you need for success and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Enroll today to learn essential industry knowledge, enhance your expertise, and open doors to new opportunities.
Apply Now969
Total program
hours
484
Practice Experience HOurs
$25+6*
Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate
97%
Graduate Employment Rate
| Course #’s | Course Titles | Total Course Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ECE010 | Child Care Growth and Development I | 45 |
| ECE020 | Child Care Growth and Development II | 45 |
| ECE030 | Guidance and Caring | 60 |
| ECE040 | Foundation and Philosophy of ECE | 60 |
| ECE050 | Pedagogy and BC Early Learning Framework | 50 |
| ECE080 | Early Childhood Education I | 60 |
| ECE082 | Early Childhood Education II | 30 |
| ECE084 | Early Childhood Education III | 30 |
| ECE060 | Fostering Outdoor and Nature Play | 30 |
| ECE090 | Interpersonal Communication | 45 |
| ECE070 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 30 |
| ECE110 | Practicum I Observation and Recording | 112 |
| ECE120 | Practicum II | 186 |
| ECE130 | Practicum III | 186 |
| Total Hours | 969 |
Our Academic Partners
We collaborate with leading Legal profession courses to ensure our curriculum is relevant and up-to-date, providing our students with valuable insights and connections.
Our PartnersFee Structure
Tuition & Financing
We offer competitive tuition rates and flexible financing options to make your education at Western Community College both accessible and affordable.
BC Student Loan
In-house Financing
Student Line of Credit
Scholarships
Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.
Finance Options-
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