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.

This program is also offered through Full Time Studies.

Continuing Education students usually complete this program in two to three years.

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

iPads are required in this program. View the minimum requirements.

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, to this program prior to registering for courses.

Apply Now!

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

You must submit an Official Grade 12 transcript showing Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent (GED, College and Career Preparation) including Grade 12 English, C or U or equivalent.

All applicants who do not meet or are missing the academic eligibility requirements for this program may contact the Program Manager for a Pre-Admission test(s) recommendation.

All applicants submitting prior academic history completed outside of Canada must provide confirmation of equivalence to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. This can be coordinated through any of the following:

Recommended Requirements

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

If you struggle with communications or your first language is not English, you are encouraged to explore upgrading options available through our Applied Communications Centre. You are also encouraged to take COMM11040 instead of COMLL041 for added understanding and support. Both meet the graduating requirements of the Program of Studies

  • Computer Skills (e.g. word processing, data management, internet access).

Students should be familiar with computers, word processing, and email based systems prior to considering this blended program (a mix of online and in class learning). To upgrade computer skills, consider a CE introductory 'Computer Basics' course or a Learning Support Centre workshop before applying.

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 Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) 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.

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