Early Learning and Child Care – certificate

Early Learning and Child Care is a one-year certificate at NorQuest College that prepares students to provide quality child care and plan developmentally appropriate activities for children. Delivered over two terms of 16 weeks each, the program is recognized by Colleges and Institutes Canada as a program of excellence, and instruction is primarily in-person with some coursework completed online. Students complete 400 hours of work experience across two practicums, applying classroom learning in real early-childhood settings. Graduates are eligible to apply for Early Childhood Educator II certification through the Government of Alberta, a credential required to work in licensed child care programs in the province. Coursework addresses child development, program planning, health and safety, and family and community engagement, preparing graduates for roles as early childhood educators in daycares, preschools, and family child care settings, or for further study in early learning and child care credentials.