Program Description

Make a difference providing support to exceptional students dealing with physical, emotional or intellectual challenges while attending school.

This part-time, online learning program has been designed to meet the needs of those who wish to pursue a career as an Educational Support/Assistant or are already working in the field and need to upgrade their qualifications. Although this program has undergone a name change from Educational Assistant to Educational Support, the program outcomes and career opportunities remain the same.

The provincially-approved curriculum has been designed to develop the aptitudes, knowledge and skills needed to work with, and support children and youth with special needs during their educational experience. Through a carefully designed program of studies that combines theory and hands-on practice in school-based field placements, candidates prepare to work with teachers, and other professionals in meeting a wide-range of exceptional student needs.

Students can complete this program within two years and can complete the program through part-time or full-time studies.

Courses in this program cost approximately $400 to $550 each. Textbooks are an extra cost.

Use of iPads may be required for this program. We encourage students to refrain from making a purchase until instructed to do so. View the minimum requirements.

Interested in finding out more about this program?
Register for the next information session!

Potential and in-progress students must be aware that most agencies accepting clinical/placement students require you to be fully vaccinated with Health Canada approved vaccines. If you are not fully immunized, it may have a significant impact on your ability to participate in clinical/field placement.

Additional Details

Admission and Registration

You must apply, and be accepted, prior to registering for courses.

Application Process:

  • Application must be submitted, with your official transcript, through the OCAS - Ontario College Application Service (opens in new window).
  • Applicants are asked to select only one option (full-time or part-time) when applying. If accepted, you will receive an offer to only one option if you applied for both. Your status (part-time or full-time) will be determined when registering for your courses each semester. Students can switch between full-time and part-time status throughout the duration of their studies. 

Intakes are available in the Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring (May).

You require:

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) OR equivalent (Mohawk Academic Upgrading, GED) OR Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older)
  • A pass in Grade 12 English, C or U or equivalent

Financial Assistance

green checkmark OSAP funding may be available. Learn more about Financial Assistance Options for Continuing Education Students.

 

Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes outline what graduates need to know, and be able to do, after they complete a program.

Review the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) program learning outcomes.

Opportunities

Academic Opportunities

  • Educational Assistant Apprentices - A partnership exists between Mohawk College and Georgian College to facilitate individuals who are working as Educational Assistants, and who have met all the requirements for the Educational Assistant Apprenticeship Certification of Completion, to complete the courses required to be awarded an Educational Assistant Ontario College Diploma. Email us for more details on this bridging opportunity.
  • View the Educational Pathways.

Career Opportunities

View future career options and industries of employment.

For details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, visit the Government of Canada Job Bank (opens in new window).

Next Steps

Wait for your application to be approved. Once approved, you can select and register for your courses.

Field Placement / Clinical

Visit our Educational Support Field Placements page for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

College Resources

Program Contact

Continuing Education
Community Services and Support
Email Us
1-844-767-6871

Completion Requirement

24 Course(s)

teacher and young student at a desk with a tablet

 

This program of studies applies to students starting the program in the current academic year. Students who began in other academic years may require different courses to be eligible to graduate. If you have questions regarding a strategy for completion email the Program Contact listed at the bottom of this page.

Click on the course names to view current availability.

A selection of courses will be offered each term. Visit our course schedule page for a tentative list of future offerings.

Required fields are indicated by .