Early Childhood Education Diploma

General Admission Requirements: All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Lethbridge College programs, as indicated in the Admissions section of the calendar.

Academic Requirements: Applicants are required to have successfully completed a one-year Early Childhood Education certificate or equivalent from a recognized college, in order to enter the Early Childhood Education diploma program.

Practicum Experience Requirements: This program has a required Practice-Based Experience (PBE) component. The College dictates the legal terms and conditions governing the PBE. Students must meet and maintain certain requirements to participate in the PBE setting as determined by programs, practice agencies and/or legislated by government bodies. These may include health (e.g. immunizations, screening tests, etc.), privacy and security (e.g. Police Information Check, IR Check, etc.), and OH&S requirements (e.g. CPR certification, Fire Safety, WHMIS, etc.).

Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage – PBE placement agencies and employers usually require WCB coverage on behalf of the student. Students enrolled in post-secondary institutions in Alberta are deemed to be employees of the Province of Alberta and, as such, provided WCB coverage. In certain instances for students outside of Alberta, WCB coverage may not be provided (e.g. non-Alberta residents taking a course solely through distance learning with a PBE placement outside of Alberta). These students are advised to contact the program prior to application.

PBE sites will include Lethbridge and may include surrounding rural communities. Students may complete a PBE in their own communities or nearby areas if possible to arrange. PBE’s may include day, evening, and/or weekend schedules. Students will be expected to travel to assigned sites and will be responsible for arranging travel and any associated costs. 

Note: Applicants who lack the required academic admission requirements can apply to the College and University Preparatory Program to upgrade for your program.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA): If you have experience working in this field of study, you may be eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.

Your Investment: Students are responsible for the cost of the field trips relating to this program.