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Early Learning and Child Care Certificate Program FAQs

Find answers to commonly asked questions about MaKami College’s one-year Early Learning and Child Care certificate program in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta.

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Early Learning and Child Care Certificate Program Overview

The Early Learning and Child Care certificate program is designed to be completed in 1 year, or 42 weeks, including 400 hours of practicum experience.

Tuition cost for domestic students is $13,475
Tuition cost for international students is $21,560

Yes it is. MaKami’s Early Learning and Child Care certificate program is recognized by the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Advanced Education and the Ministry of Children and Family Services, which qualifies graduates to receive Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification.

This ELCC certification is a requirement for all ECE’s working in licensed family day home agencies, daycares, out-of-school care and preschool programs.

MaKami College is a public, not-for-profit post-secondary college that is also listed on the Government of Canada’s list of Designated Learning Institutions, which approves us to accept international students.

There are many factors that make MaKami’s Early Learning and Child Care certificate program unique, including:

  • A holistic, inclusive and interculturally responsive curriculum including multiple perspectives such as cultural awareness and indigenous ways of knowing and being, preparing graduates for the skills to meet all learners.
  • 2 practicum placements, giving you more hands-on knowledge and skills in a variety of child care settings.
  • First aid, WHMIS and food safety training included.

MaKami College offers its Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program all year round in our Edmonton and Calgary campuses. Contact us to learn more about our enrollment dates and deadlines.

Early childhood educators are currently in high demand. It is estimated Alberta needs 7,000 to 9,500 more early childhood educators over the next four years to fill existing vacancies and new positions.

MaKami’s Early Learning Child Care (ELCC) certificate program will prepare you to work in a variety of settings, such as child care and daycare centres, day homes, preschools, Kindergarten classrooms and more.

According to the Government of Alberta, early childhood educators and assistants earn an average of $18.59 per hour. However, upon graduation, educators with Level 2 certifications may qualify for a Wage Enhancement Grant from the Government of Alberta of an additional $5.05 per hour on top of their employer’s wage.

In addition, students who complete the one-year Certificate can go on to complete the 1-year Early Learning and Child Care diploma program, where their additional training will make them eligible to enter management positions and earn higher wages.

Availability and Accessibility

This flexible program is offered in a blended format, with online and in-person classes, workshops and practicums.

Interactive online components make learning fun and engaging, ensuring students stay motivated and involved.

Our early learning and child care certificate program was designed with the working child educator in mind. Our flexible program has both online and in-person classes.

In-person classes are held twice a week in the evenings to accommodate students who are working while upgrading their credentials.

Eligibility and Admissions

Standard Admission

Students must meet the following criteria for standard admissions:

  • Minimum 17 years of age
  • Successful interview with school administration
  • Alberta high school diploma/non-Alberta equivalent

Mature Admission

Students using Mature Admissions for the Personal Trainer Program must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum 18 years of age.
  • Successful interview with school administration
  • Successful completion of a Wonderlic Exam equal to grade 12 or above
    OR Successful completion of a post-secondary program in Canada

English Proficiency

Additionally, should the applicant’s primary language not be English, then one of the following criteria must be met:

  • Completion of previous education with either a High School or Post-Secondary Diploma in an institution where English is the primary language of instruction and communication.
  • Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Literacy Placement Test with a score of 7 in each of the four
    competencies – reading/writing/listening/speaking, or equivalent:
    • CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) with a minimum score of 7 in each of the four competencies: reading/writing/listening/speaking.
    • IELTS General (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum score of 6.0 in each of the four competencies: reading/writing/listening/speaking.
    • TOEFL iBT: 53
    • CAEL: 50
    • Cambridge: CAE-C, CAE-B, CPE-C
    • MELAB: 80
    • Can Test: 4.5
  • Completion of course in English 30-1 or equivalent with at least 60%, or English 30-2 or equivalent with at least 65% passing grade.
  • If the credentials are from outside Canada, the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) will be used to assess the equivalencies of the courses submitted.

Early Learning Child Care Certificate Program Curriculum

The Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) certificate program provides a holistic, inclusive and interculturally responsive curriculum taking into consideration children’s levels and abilities, as well as a spectrum of educational approaches. The program includes First Aid Level C + CPR, Food Safety and WHMIS.

View MaKami College’s Early Learning Child Care certificate program curriculum to learn more about courses and hands-on training.

Reide, MaKami College Massage Therapy program graduate

It’s the culture of MaKami that sold me, you don’t just leave with the excellent education – you leave with relationships that are going to help support you throughout your career.

Reide / Massage Therapy Graduate
Freddy, MaKami College Massage Therapy program graduate

Doesn’t matter what campus you’re on, it’s the community that we make here at MaKami – with the staff and with the students – that makes it what it is. You’re a part of the community and so if you’re here at MaKami, you’re going to be well taken care of.

Freddy / Massage Therapy Graduate

Interested in the Early Learning and Child Care certificate program at MaKami College?

Are you ready to see if you have what it takes to become an early childhood educator? Answer a few questions below and get pre-approved today!

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