| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Early Childhood Education Fast Track Diploma Program at Conestoga College is a one-year, full-time program designed for university graduates seeking to become early childhood educators. It combines interactive classroom learning with work-integrated learning experiences, preparing students for careers in child care centers, preschools, and other early learning settings. Graduates receive an Ontario College Diploma in Early Childhood Education and are eligible for financial support.
Program Outline
Outline:
Program Content:
This program focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to work with young children in early learning and care settings. It builds upon the existing knowledge and experience of university graduates, enabling them to develop the expertise needed for a career as an early childhood educator.
Structure:
The Fast Track version of the program is designed for completion in two consecutive academic semesters (9 months) of full-time study. It combines interactive classroom learning with work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences. However, it mentions that the program integrates classroom theory and practice through work placements in college-operated child development centers, kindergarten classrooms, licensed early learning and care programs, and community agencies.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes collaboration between students, families, colleagues, and communities to design, implement, and evaluate inclusive play-based early learning programs. It also focuses on building a strong foundation in child development and principles of responsive practice.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the program can pursue careers as early childhood educators in various settings, including:
- Child care centers
- Preschools
- Kindergartens
- Family resource centers
- Community agencies
- Government organizations
Opportunities and Outcomes:
The program prepares graduates for roles such as:
- Early Childhood Educator
- Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE)
- Child Care Supervisor
- Program Coordinator
Length of Program:
The program can be completed in one year.
Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Overview:
Conestoga College is an Ontario college offering full and part-time studies. It provides a wide range of programs and services to students, including full-time, continuing education, online, apprenticeship, and open programs. The college is known for its focus on applied learning and its commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Conestoga College offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Academic integrity resources, accessible learning services, bookstore, eConestoga online learning platform, global opportunities, library services, program technology requirements, student tech help, and tutoring & academic help.Student Support:
Counseling, Indigenous services, medical care clinic, remote service hours, student financial services, and student rights and responsibilities.Get Involved:
Athletics & Recreation, Co-Curricular Record (CCR), CSI - Student association, Orientation, and Student Engagement.Campus Services:
Child care centers, facilities management, food services, IT service desk, lockers, ONE Card, parking & transportation, printing services, safety & security, and student housing.Career & Employment:
Community Career Centre, Conestoga Entrepreneurship Collective, co-operative education, myCareer Services, and Talent Hub.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Conestoga College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for students. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and student government. The college also offers a range of social events and opportunities for students to connect with their peers and the wider community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning:
Conestoga College emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development, preparing students for real-world careers.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of employers and prepare students for specific career paths.Strong Industry Partnerships:
Conestoga College has strong relationships with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and access to real-world experiences.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, with a range of services and resources available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Conestoga College offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
- Applied Computer Science & Information Technology
- Business
- Community Services
- Creative Industries
- Engineering & Technology
- Health & Life Sciences
- Hospitality & Culinary Arts
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Trades & Apprenticeship
Other:
Conestoga College has multiple campuses and locations across Ontario, including Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Milton, Stratford, and Waterloo. The college also offers a variety of online programs and courses.
Early Childhood Education Fast Track (ECE) | Diploma - Entry Requirements:
Canadian Applicants:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with a minimum average of 60% and
- Completion of the following courses:
- Grade 12 English (ENG4U or equivalent)
- Grade 12 Mathematics (any grade 12 mathematics course)
Mature Applicants:
- Applicants who are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for at least one year may be considered for admission based on a mature student assessment.
- The mature student assessment may include an interview, a review of previous academic or work experience, and standardized testing.
International Applicants:
- A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with a minimum overall average of 70%
- Completion of the following courses:
- English equivalent to Grade 12 English (ENG4U)
- Mathematics equivalent to Grade 12 Mathematics (any grade 12 mathematics course)
- Proof of English language proficiency, as outlined in the Language Proficiency Requirements section.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving a minimum score on one of the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with a minimum of 21 in each section (reading, listening, speaking, writing)
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each section (reading, listening, speaking, writing)
