Douglas College‘s outstanding Early Childhood Education program has opened its doors to international students commencing Fall 2020. So, this program is a great choice for those with a passion for childcare, health, education, and serving diverse needs. Also, the program includes theory, labs, and practicum experience to ensure you are ready for the job world.
Program Overview
The Douglas College Early Childhood Education program prepares students to contribute to the well-being of children, families, and their community. Students will participate in an integrated approach to learning including theoretical material with laboratory and practicum experience. This will give graduates of the program the ability to work with children from newborns to up to 8 years of age. Specifically, the Early Childhood Educator grads will be able to promote health and nutrition, communicate and collaborate with children and caregivers, and manage a child care setting.
Early Childhood Education Admission Requirements
To enter the Early Childhood Education program as an international student there a few steps that must be done. Below are all the necessary admission documentation necessary for your application:
- 2 letters of reference (in English)
- 20 volunteer in a licensed centre for 3-5yr olds (not a requirement during COVID19)
- Medical declaration (if entering a practicum)
- Must be 18 years of age by December 31st of the year they enter
- Applicants who have completed 9 or more post-secondary credits must be in good academic standing (with a minimum GPA of 1.5)
- Successfully participate in a formal orientation and selection process to determine suitability and readiness for training.
- Complete a Criminal Record Check (if entering a practicum)
International students were not previously eligible for this program, but now they are able to enter as of Fall 2020. Many requirements are undergoing alterations as well in light of this and COVID19. For example, formal interviews are no longer a requirement, and the volunteer hours have been cut from 50 to 20 hours.
Early Childhood Education Program Requirements
Students in the Early Childhood Education program must complete a number of courses in areas such as education, communication, health, and more. Also, all courses designated under the program requirements are necessary and will be supplemented by electives or other relevant courses.
To receive an Early Childhood Education Diploma from Douglas, students must complete the basic courses for the certificate and supplement them with other beneficial courses. For example, a student could complete the basic certificate courses alongside several courses in Special Needs, earning that certificate. So, both certificates would contribute to the diploma.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Early Childhood Education program are able to apply for two provincial licenses to practice as Early Childhood Educators and Special Needs Educators. Further, graduates may wish to return for a post-diploma Certificate in Infant and Toddler Care, and then apply for a third provincial license as an Infant/Toddler Educator.
Further, students have the option of considering university transfer options. Graduates may apply to receive transfer credit to the Bachelor in Child and Youth Care at Douglas College, University of Victoria, University of the Fraser Valley, or Vancouver Island University. Further, outside of British Columbia, they can apply to the University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation (BCR). Other transfer options are available, be sure to check the B.C. Transfer Guide.
Douglas College lifting the domestic student requirement for this program is a dream come true! Additionally, lowering the barriers for entry will also help you apply easier to the program at Douglas. Graduates of this program are eligible for provincial certifications, university transfers, and great careers working with children of varying ages and needs across Canada.
