Early Childhood Education and Development

About

You can make a difference in the quality of early learning and child care that children, families, and communities access. This Early Childhood Education and Development (ECE) certificate program prepares you to support children and families with high-quality practices founded on knowledge of current research and theories that are responsive to the development and uniqueness of the children you work with. Each term, you will engage in experiential learning opportunities in your community through a practicum placement. You will grow your knowledge of child development, family dynamics, play, and program planning, through the lens of Flight: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework. As a developing leader, you will gain knowledge of reflective practice, pedagogical leadership, and the role of early learning and child care in society, in addition to knowledge of child development, family dynamics, play, and program planning.

Graduates are eligible for Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification from the Alberta Government.

Flexible Delivery Options

The ECE certificate program is offered full-time or part-time with a variety of delivery options including traditional classroom and online learning. There are daytime and evening classes scheduled throughout the week. The practicum, however, must be completed physically onsite at a licensed childcare program in Alberta.

Innovative Learning Lab

The ECED learning lab is a dedicated space to explore possibilities and materials that support responsive environments for young children. This innovative and engaging space supports the translation of theory to practice.

Outdoor Pedagogy

We are pleased to work in partnership with the Lawson Foundation to promote and support outdoor pedagogy in early childhood education and development. Ongoing research is informing our curriculum and instructional practices.

Admission Requirements

• Credit in English Language Arts 30-1, or minimum 65% in English Language Arts 30-2, or equivalent
• Successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test with a minimum standard score of 520 in Language Arts: Reading and Writing
• Satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admission and Placement Test

Pre-Practicum Requirement

A current Police Information Check (PIC) with a Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS) must be submitted prior to practicum placements. The existence of a criminal record may postpone or prevent clinical, practicum, or field work placements and, subsequently, successful completion of the program.

Required Resources in Practicum Courses

To enhance your educational experience and streamline document tracking and management, you will be required to purchase and use a software tool for data tracking and communication called CompTracker. This tool is designed to meet the specific needs of your practicum course, ensuring everything runs efficiently, and it keeps all your practicum documents easily accessible on either your personal mobile device (Apple or Android) or on the secure website. No more lost forms! With this software you will be able to receive real-time feedback, and it promotes consistency and transparency in communication.
CompTracker software is a required resource for your program and access must be purchased at the start of each term to receive course credit. The purchase price is $50 plus GST per practicum course and is payable when you login to download the software. Full details and training on this app will be provided to you in your course. The device and browser specifications are available at

Transferability

Transfer opportunities are available to a variety of institutions. Transfer credits are reviewed and accepted on an individual basis by the institution to which you apply.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, please review English language proficiency requirements.

Academic Upgrading

Enhance your previous education to meet the missing admissions requirements for one of the BVC programs.

Available Intakes

• September 2025: Domestic - Open, International - Not Offered
• January 2026: Domestic - Open, International - Not Offered

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Students

Term	Tuition Fees	Additional Fees	Total Fees*
Term 1	$2,227	$605	$2,832
Term 2	$2,628	$605	$3,233

International Students

Term	Tuition Fees	Additional Fees	Total Fees*
Term 1	$6,477	$605	$7,082
Term 2	$7,310	$605	$7,915

*All tuition and fees are subject to change. Program tuitions are estimates only. Your actual tuition and fees are calculated on actual course registrations and can be viewed under "Statement of Account" in MyBVC or by requesting a Statement of Account from Registrar Services.

Courses

Term 1

Code	Course	Credit	PDF
ELCC1101	Introduction To Early Childhood Education and Development	3	picturepdf
ELCC1301	Child Development: An Introduction	3	picturepdf
ELCC1998	Early Childhood Education and Development Practicum I	6	picturepdf
ENGL1201	English Composition	3	picturepdf
ELCC1401	Holistic Wellbeing in Early Childhood Education and Development	3	picturepdf

Term 2

Code	Course	Credit	PDF
COMM1101	Interpersonal Relationships And Communication Skills	3	picturepdf
ELCC1305	Developing Through Play	3	picturepdf
ELCC1313	Supporting Children's Social and Emotional Development	3	picturepdf
INDG1101	Introduction to Indigenous Studies	3	picturepdf

Electives

Earn at least 7 credits from the following courses:

Code	Course	Credit	PDF
ELCC1999	Observation in Early Childhood Education and Development	7	picturepdf

Bow Valley College

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Overview:

Bow Valley College is a public post-secondary institution located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It offers a wide range of programs and services to students, including diploma programs, certificates, apprenticeships, and continuing education courses. The college is known for its commitment to applied learning and its focus on preparing students for successful careers.

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Services Offered:

Bow Valley College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:

Academic Services:

Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.

Financial Services:

Information and assistance with student loans, bursaries, and scholarships.

New Student Orientation:

Programs and events to help new students transition to college life.

Office of the Registrar:

Services related to registration, transcripts, and graduation.

Learner Success Services:

Support for students with disabilities, mental health services, and other personal and academic support.

Student Association:

A student-run organization that provides social and advocacy services.

RGO Library and Learning Commons:

Access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, computers, and study spaces.

Intercultural Centre:

Programs and services to support international students and students from diverse backgrounds.

Iniikokaan Centre:

Services and resources for Indigenous students.

Bookstore:

Textbooks, supplies, and other merchandise.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Bow Valley College offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for student engagement, social activities, and community involvement. Students can participate in clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities. The college also has a strong focus on student support and provides a variety of resources to help students succeed.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Job-Ready Programs:

Bow Valley College's programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers.

Applied Learning:

The college emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience.

Experienced Faculty:

Bow Valley College has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to student success.

Supportive Environment:

The college provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds.

Regional Campuses:

Students can access programs and services at regional campuses in Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.

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Academic Programs:

Bow Valley College offers a wide range of academic programs in various fields, including:

Entertainment Arts

Business

Technology

Community Studies

Health and Wellness

Careers in Immigrant Advancement

Continuing Education

Academic Upgrading

English Language Learning

Open Studies

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Other:

Bow Valley College is recognized as one of the top 50 Research Colleges in Canada. The college's Research and Innovation department focuses on applied research, teaching excellence, curriculum design, and workforce development.