Education Assistant

About

The Education Assistant program at Bow Valley College teaches students the skills and knowledge needed to support children and teens with different needs in the classroom.

Competency-Based Education

This program is offered in a Competency-Based Education format, which focuses on teaching the skills and knowledge that employers in the field expect. Industry experts and hiring managers help design the courses to ensure they meet real-world job requirements.

Competency-Based Education allows students—whether they have prior experience or not—to learn through various teaching and assessment methods. The program offers flexible delivery options, including in-person, online, and self-paced learning, to suit different needs.

• If you have worked/had education in this or a related field previously (either in Canada or another country), the competency-based education format can help you finish the program faster. You choose when you want to take assessments, giving you more control over your learning.
• If you have no experience in this field, you will work through the course material at your own pace within the term and complete the assessments as they appear in the course progression.
• If you are an International student, you must attend in-person sessions to meet visa requirements and keep your full-time student status.

Practicum

At the end of the program, students must complete a seven-week practicum in a school as an Education Assistant. To qualify, you will need to finish all coursework and meet pre-placement requirements. Students with relevant experience may be eligible for credit through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

Admission Requirements

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

Pre-Practicum Requirement

The Education Assistant program includes a practicum placement in agencies where employers require a Police Information Check (PIC) with a Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS). Results of this check may restrict opportunities for placement in a practicum. The PIC must be obtained before the start of the practicum.

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.

Available Intakes

• September 2025
• January 2026

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Students

• Term 1: $2,700 (tuition fees) + $605 (additional fees) = $3,305 (total fees)
• Term 2: $2,466 (tuition fees) + $605 (additional fees) = $3,071 (total fees)

International Students

• Term 1: $6,780 (tuition fees) + $605 (additional fees) = $7,385 (total fees)
• Term 2: $6,300 (tuition fees) + $605 (additional fees) = $6,905 (total fees)

Courses

Term 1

• EDAS1150: Introduction to the Role of Education Assistant (3 credits)
• EDAS1151: Trauma-informed Practice for Education Assistants (3 credits)
• EDAS1152: Communication Skills for Education Assistants (3 credits)
• EDAS1450: Indigenous Approaches to Education (3 credits)
• EDAS1250: Create a Safe Learning Environment (3 credits)
• EDAS1551: Support Students and Teachers Across Contexts (3 credits)

Term 2

• EDAS1350: Provide Behavioural Support (6 credits)
• EDAS1550: Provide Academic Support (6 credits)
• EDAS1950: Education Assistant Practicum (6 credits)

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.