Early Learning & Child Care (was Early Childhood Development)
Chairperson
Toni Lachance
Program Information:
E-mail: inquire@rdc.ab.ca
Phone: 403.342.3400 OR 1.888.732.4630
One-Year Certificate or Two-Year Diploma
The importance of the early years in a child's development is well established. There is a critical need for a variety of programs for children and families and for trained staff to ensure children's developmental needs are being met. The Early Learning and Child Care Program trains professionals to work with children from birth to eight years, with some related preparation for working with children from eight to twelve years of age. Throughout the program, there is an emphasis on developing caring relationships with children and families.
A one-year certificate and/or a two-year diploma can help prepare students for a rewarding career. This program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and develop competencies in such areas as child development, interpersonal relations, curriculum content, family studies, exceptional children, and program management.
Focus is placed on the integration of theory and practice. This is accomplished by an extended practicum in a variety of early learning and care program environments.
Related Careers
Graduates of the Certificate program in Early Learning and Child Care may find employment in a variety of positions:
- early childhood caregivers in child care programs
- instructional assistants in kindergarten programs and primary grades
- teachers in a nursery school
- caregivers in school-age care programs
- family day home providers
As well as the above, other opportunities for employment for Diploma graduates include:
- day care directors and administrators
- family support workers/visitors
- child care program coordinators (in a women's shelter, for instance)
- family support workers
- instructional assistants to children with special needs in preschool or school programs
The Program
RDC offers a one-year certificate and a two-year diploma program in Early Learning and Child Care. Each course you take focuses on a different topic important to those who work with young children - everything from child development, to guiding behavior, to planning snacks and bulletin boards, to planning and participating in play experiences, to interacting with children who have special needs.
The ELCC department operates in partnership with college and community programs serving children from birth to twelve years of age. Students work in practicum placements in these programs as a method of integrating theory and practice. There are two practicum courses in each of the ELCC programs. By the end of the Diploma Program, students assume many of the responsibilities related to preschool care and education in their practicums.
Outreach (Distance) Delivery
The Outreach Program in Early Learning and Child Care offers the opportunity to study at the college level, to continue working, and to remain in your community for most of the experience. There are several methods of Outreach Delivery: The certificate program is available by Blended Delivery based at RDC and the diploma program is available online.
Certificate Distance (Blended) Delivery courses are based in Red Deer and combine the strengths of print-based independent study materials, with computer-facilitated support, as well as on-site classroom delivery two Saturdays per course.
A complete cycle of ELCC courses can be completed through part-time study over a four-year period or less. This multi-delivery approach is highly effective in meeting the diverse needs of adult students.
Students with an ELCC Diploma may transfer to related fields in some university programs. Students wishing to transfer to these universities should seek information on additional admission requirements from the institution.
Students can enter the program in September, January or May and can register as part-time or full-time students.
See Distance Learning for more information.
Admission Requirements
Certificate Program
1. High School Diploma with a minimum mark of 50% in ELA 30-1 OR a minimum mark of 65% in ELA 30-2
OR
2. Mature Student: You must be 19 years of age or older, out of high school at least one full year before the program starts, and have a minimum mark of 50% in ELA 30-1
OR
a minimum mark of 65% in ELA 30-2
OR
a minimum score at the 50th percentile on the English component of the College Board Placement Test (written on campus) or the Test of Adult Basic Education (written off campus) and a score of 2-3 on a writing sample.
*Note: Government requires people who work directly with young children to have a current immunization record and a criminal record check. While not an admission requirement for the program, some practicum agencies and field placements may require Criminal Record Checks of students working in their organizations. Information about obtaining Criminal Record checks will be provided to students after they have been admitted to the program. Some programs may require medical examinations, as well.
Part Time and Outreach Students
1. You may meet the requirements above
OR
2. Mature Students may be admitted as conditional students to two ELCC courses in the certificate program. Upon the successful completion of these courses, and the recommendation of the Chairperson, they may be admitted to the Early Childhood Development Program.
Diploma Program
- Early Childhood Development Certificate with a minimum G.P.A. of 1.7, or consent of the Chair
- Transferring students from another post-secondary institution will be required to present an equivalent academic program.
Communications Course Placement Testing
ELCC students will be required to take a College Placement Test before registering in a written communications course (COMM 150 or COMM 254). The achieved test score will be used as an indicator of placement in COMM 150 or COMM 254. Students with 60% or greater in ELA 30-1 will be exempted from this test and qualify to register in COMM 254.
Program Content
Year 1 - Certificate Program
Note: Students are encouraged to take COMM 254 if they qualify.
Year 2 - Diploma Program
*One of ELCC 305, ELCC 308, ELCC 309 or one other option approved by the Chair.
Special Fees and Expenses
You should budget about $500.00 per year for books and supplies. Practicum courses are usually in the Red Deer area, but you should expect some extra costs for travel, clothes, etc.
Program Cost Estimates - 2009/2010
Graduation Requirements
A certificate will not be granted if a diploma has been awarded. You must pass all first year courses to receive a certificate and pass all second year courses to receive a diploma.