Early Childhood Education
The information on this program page is based on the 2012-13 Academic Calendar. This page will be updated on June 1 with 2013-14 Academic Calendar information.
Important: The complete 2013-14 Academic Calendar is now available in print format at the Lethbridge College Bookstore and can be downloaded from our Publications page.
Join learning and play to create a nurturing future
If you possess a caring attitude with a desire to make a difference, you’ll find a rewarding experience through our Early Childhood Education program. You can be an essential part of a child’s early years, where learning through play is a vital part of their development. With all of the courses available online, you have the flexibility to set your own schedule as you work your way through the program. And whether you are in the classroom or online, we’ll show you how to plan appropriate learning experiences as key elements in early childhood education. You will also have a comprehensive introduction to child growth, behaviour and development as well as health, nutrition and safety.
Early Childhood Education is right for you if you:
- model appropriate behaviour and language
- have good communication skills
- are observant
- communicate effectively and can work closely with children, parents and colleagues
- can deal creatively and effectively with problem situations.
Develop the career that’s right for you
We’ll give you the flexibility to choose from daytime, evening/weekend and distance learning courses to help you find the fit that’s best for you. Our 98 days of practicum will allow you to test your abilities, focusing on children from birth to six years old. Your certificate or diploma in Early Childhood Education will give you more than a practical grounding in child development. It will arm you with the knowledge and experience you need for an enjoyable career working with young children at any stage of development.
PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
There is a required practicum component to this program. The College dictates the legal terms and conditions governing the practicum experience. Failure by the student to accept by way of legal contract and abide by these terms and conditions will result in non-completion of the program.
Applicants are advised they will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check with a vulnerable sector search before entering the practicum experience component of the program. The existence of a criminal record may affect the practicum placement, program completion and employment prospects.
The consequences of a prior criminal conviction will be examined and discussed on an individual basis if necessary.
Students are required to complete practicums in child care centres, preschool programs and/or kindergartens. Every effort is made to provide placements within Lethbridge; however some placements may occur in the outlying communities. Students who are completing practicum through Distributed/Online Learning may complete these practicums in their own communities or nearby areas.
| Tuition | Fees | Books & Supplies | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $2,923 | $1,017 | $2,300* |
| Year 2 | $2,923 | $1,092 | $2,400* |
