- Program Description
- Program of Studies / Mandatory Courses
- Admission and Registration
- Learning Outcomes
- Opportunities
- Next Steps
- Field Placement / Clinical
- Additional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- College Resources
- Program Contact
Program Description
Learn how to foster the physical, emotional and educational development of children in this rewarding career.
This part-time program has been designed to meet the needs of those who wish to pursue a career as an Early Childhood Educator or are already working in the field and wish to upgrade their qualifications.
The provincially-approved curriculum has been designed to develop the aptitudes, knowledge and skills ECEs need to work with, and support children and their families in their early educational experiences. Through a carefully designed program of studies that combines theory and hands-on practice in field placements, candidates prepare to create vibrant environments for young children, support exploration, inspire learning and nurture creativity.
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 $220 to $550 each. Textbooks are extra.
Additional Details
Admission and Registration
You must apply, and be accepted, to this program prior to registering for courses.
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.
If you do not meet the academic eligibility requirement for this program you may take a pre-admission test. The pre-admission test is done on a referral-basis only. You need to indicate on your application that you require a pre-admission test, include your date of birth, and our admissions secretary will send you a referral to the testing centre for you and let you know your next steps once a referral has been made. Please do not indicate that you require a pre-admission test if you plan on submitting an original transcript.
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:
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) (opens in new window)
- University of Toronto Comparative Education Service (CES) (opens in new window)
- World Education Services (WES) (opens in new window)
Recommended Requirements
- Current volunteer experience in childcare.
- 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
OSAP funding may be available. Learn more about Financial Assistance Options for Continuing Education Students.
Additional financial support may be available through the Ontario Early Childhood Educators Upgrade and Leadership Program (opens in new window).
This program is recognized by the Ontario ECE Grants Program. To learn more or to determine eligibility for the Ontario ECE Grant funding, please visit https://ecegrants.on.ca/brochures/. If you are eligible for ECE Grant funding and have been accepted into the Early Childhood Education program at Mohawk College, please contact our office for assistance with course registration.
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
View the Educational Pathways.
Career Opportunities
View future career options and industries of employment.
For more 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 Early Childhood Education Field Placements page for details.
Additional Information
This diploma program requires the completion of two General Elective courses. Students are encouraged to view current General Elective courses offered through Continuing Education by visiting our General Elective Course Search webpage. Students must review the General Elective Restriction List webpage prior to registering for General Elective courses as each program has specific courses that cannot be taken as General Electives. For more information on General Electives and the General Elective Restriction List, please email gened@mohawkcollege.ca or visit the General Education Elective webpage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Continuing Education FAQ
- Where can I find more information on registering?
- What is the fee structure?
- How can I apply for an exemption?
- Can I obtain credit for learning obtained outside a traditional classroom?
- Where can I find more information on online learning and exams for online courses?
- How do I apply to graduate?
College Resources
Program Contact
Continuing Education
Education and Library Studies
Email Us
1-844-767-6871