Campus News, Educational Assistant
Introducing MaKami College’s New Educational Assistant Program
Sep
This September, MaKami College is proud to launch a program built for one of Alberta’s most in-demand careers: our new Educational Assistant (EA) Certificate Program.
Educational Assistants play a vital role in classrooms across the province, supporting students with diverse learning needs and helping teachers create inclusive, engaging environments. With schools across Alberta facing a growing need for qualified EAs, this program was designed to meet that demand head-on and to give graduates the real-world skills to walk into the role with confidence.
What Makes This Program Different
The Educational Assistant Certificate is a one-year, Blended-HyFlex program, offered at both our Edmonton and Calgary campuses. Blended-HyFlex means students can:
- Attend classes live on campus
- Join live-streamed classes from home
- Watch recorded classes anytime afterward
That flexibility is built in from day one, so students can choose the format that fits their life without falling behind.
The program is designed to meet government and industry requirements and is officially supported by Alberta Advanced Education, giving students confidence that what they’re learning lines up with what the field actually expects.
Hands-On, Practicum-Based Learning
Classroom theory only goes so far. That’s why the program includes three Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) courses and 225 hours of practicum experience, giving students real time in real classrooms before they graduate. Students also learn to use AI and assistive technologies, trauma-informed approaches, and Universal Design for Learning strategies to support students with complex needs.
By graduation, students will be prepared to:
- Apply child and adolescent development principles to support diverse learners
- Assist with academic subjects using assistive and adaptive technologies
- Support positive behaviour, accessibility, and independence in the classroom
- Promote belonging, equity, and collaboration through ethical, professional practice
Where Graduates Can Work
Educational Assistants are needed well beyond the traditional classroom. Graduates of the program will be prepared for roles across:
- Public and Catholic schools
- Private and charter schools
- Early childhood and pre-school settings
- Post-secondary institutions
- Community and support programs
- Recreation and after-school programs
- Non-profits and Indigenous schools
Career paths include roles such as Teaching Assistant, Behaviour Interventionist, Educational Assistant – Complex Needs, Educational Assistant – Special Education, Respite Worker, and more.
No Experience Required
This program is open to those just starting their career path as well as those looking for a meaningful change. MaKami offers multiple admission pathways, including standard admission, mature student admission, transfer pathways, and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) so there’s a route in no matter where you’re starting from.
Enrollment Opens This September
Seats in the first cohort are limited, and interest in this program has already been building. If you, or someone you know has ever thought about a career supporting kids in the classroom, now is the time to get on the list.
