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MaKami College Launches New Educational Assistant Program

MaKami College instructor supporting two students using a laptop in a classroom

MaKami College will launch its new Educational Assistant certificate program in September 2026. The one-year program will prepare students to support diverse learners in schools and community settings.

Educational assistants work with teachers, school teams, families and community partners to support student learning, accessibility and independence. MaKami’s program will help students build the academic, behavioural, communication and practical skills needed for this work.

Classes will follow a Blended-HyFlex format. Depending on the course pathway, students may attend live classes on campus, join live-streamed classes from home or watch recorded classes later.

Prospective students can learn more and sign up for enrolment updates on the Educational Assistant program page.

Prepare for a career supporting students

The Educational Assistant certificate program is designed for people who want to help students learn, participate and build independence. No previous experience is required.

This makes the program an option for people beginning their careers, returning to school or considering a career change.

Students will learn inclusive teaching strategies, academic support skills and positive behaviour approaches. The program also covers AI and assistive technologies, child and adolescent development, culturally responsive practices, trauma-informed support and universal design for learning.

These skills will help graduates respond to the different strengths and needs of the students they support.

Choose how you take part

MaKami’s Blended-HyFlex model gives students more choice in how they attend classes. Depending on the course and available pathway, students may:

  • Attend live classes on campus
  • Join live-streamed classes from home
  • Watch recorded classes afterward

This format can help students balance school with work, family and other responsibilities.

Delivery options may vary by course. Students should review the latest program information and speak with an admissions advisor about their schedules.

Gain experience through a practicum

Hands-on learning is an important part of the program. Students will complete three work-integrated learning courses, including 225 hours of practicum experience.

The practicum will give students an opportunity to apply what they learn in an educational setting. Students can build experience in areas such as collaboration, student support, accessibility, positive behaviour and professional responsibility.

Explore career opportunities

Graduates may pursue support roles in public and private schools, specialized learning centres, early learning settings, post-secondary institutions, community education programs, recreation and after-school programs, Indigenous schools and non-profit organizations.

Potential roles include:

  • Educational assistant
  • Teaching assistant
  • Developmental assistant
  • Behaviour interventionist
  • Recreation aid
  • Respite worker
  • English as an Additional Language assistant
  • Education assistant supporting students with complex needs
  • Education assistant supporting special education

Employment requirements and hiring decisions vary by employer.

Find the right admission pathway

Applicants come to MaKami with different educational and professional backgrounds. The program offers standard and mature admission as well as options for transfer students and prior learning assessment and recognition.

Applicants whose first language is not English may also need to meet English-language proficiency requirements.

An admissions advisor can help prospective students understand the available pathway, admission requirements and next steps.

Learn more about the September 2026 launch

The Educational Assistant certificate program offers flexible learning and practical experience for people interested in supporting students. The program includes three work-integrated learning courses and 225 hours of practicum experience.

Visit the Educational Assistant certificate program page to review the latest information and sign up for launch and enrolment updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does MaKami College’s Educational Assistant Program launch?

MaKami College’s new Educational Assistant Certificate Program launches in September 2026. For the confirmed intake date, enrolment timeline, and current next steps, visit the program page and request updates from the admissions team.

How long is the Educational Assistant Certificate Program?

The Educational Assistant Certificate Program is a one-year certificate program.

Where is MaKami College’s Educational Assistant Program offered?

The program is offered through MaKami College’s Edmonton and Calgary campuses. The program uses a Blended-HyFlex format; prospective students should speak with an advisor about how scheduled learning options apply to their cohort.

How does Blended-HyFlex learning work?

Blended-HyFlex learning can allow students to attend classes live on campus, join live-streamed classes from home, or watch recorded classes afterward through an alternate pathway.

Does the Educational Assistant Program include a practicum?

Yes. The program includes three work-integrated learning courses and 225 hours of practicum experience to help students connect their learning to real-world educational environments.

Do I need previous experience to apply to the program?

No previous experience is required. MaKami College provides standard, mature, transfer, and prior learning assessment and recognition pathways, subject to its admissions requirements.

What could I do after completing an Educational Assistant certificate?

MaKami College identifies potential roles including Educational Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Developmental Assistant, Behaviour Interventionist, Recreation Aid, Respite Worker, and EAL Assistant. Employment requirements and hiring decisions vary by employer.

Is financial aid available, and is a laptop included?

MaKami College indicates that financial aid may be available and that a laptop is included with tuition. Prospective students should contact the College to confirm their eligibility and the current terms.

 

 

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