Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs are based on the application of the latest findings in child development.

Our pedagogical framework is based on Take Wings: A Framework for Early Learning and Child Care Programs in Alberta.

It emphasizes relational practices that enhance the child's image as a powerful learner and citizen, through an adapted environment.

The programs are developed specifically in the context of the French-speaking minority, through the language development of children living in a multicultural French-speaking environment.

Our teachers also have years of experience working in French-language daycare centers and early childhood centers in minority settings.

Training

Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs combine lectures with a practicum component. This formula gives students real-life experience in a professional workplace.

Specifically, the first year of the ECE program comprises 450 hours of coursework, with 2 internships of 96 and 280 hours respectively.

The second year also includes 450 hours of courses with 2 internships, this time of 120 and 280 hours, respectively. Navigate to the course details pages to see the official internship descriptions.Internships must be completed in person.

Program Flexibility

Choice of Face-to-face or Online Training

Courses in the Early Childhood Education program are offered both online and face-to-face. All practicums must be completed in person.

Online

Online courses use the University of Alberta's state-of-the-art training tools, offering virtual classes in real time (synchronous) or in delayed mode (asynchronous).

The eClass online learning platform enables students to learn and collaborate in a practical and effective way.

Face-to-face

Face-to-face courses take place at Campus Saint-Jean, in an immersive French-speaking environment.

• Internships must be face-to-face.
• Full-time or part-time studies
• Full-time
• Number of hours: 826 hours (Certificate) / 1676 hours (Diploma)
• Duration: Certificate 12 months, Diploma 24 months

The courses and internships in the Early Childhood Education programs are organized so as to complete training over a period of one year for the certificate and two years for the diploma. The program structure is illustrated on the course grids.

Part-time

Number of hours: 826 hours (Certificate) / 1676 hours (Diploma)
Maximum authorized duration: Certificate 24 months, Diploma 48 months

Courses in Early Childhood Education programs can also be taken on a part-time basis, which doubles the time required to obtain the desired degree, but allows greater flexibility.

This is preferable for workers and others who want a lighter course load. and complete the program in two years for the Certificate and four years for the Diploma.