Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

    Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma at Vancouver Island University

    Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma at Vancouver Island University

    International students can study the Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma at Vancouver Island University on the Nanaimo campus in Canada. This Diploma degree is available as a Full Time program delivered on campus in English. The program has a duration of 2 year(s) and is offered at the Nanaimo campus. Tuition fees are USD 22,892 / year, and students can apply for the next intake starting on September 8, 2026.

    About Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

    The ECEC program gives you the knowledge and skills to work with young children and their families in childcare settings. You will go through a series of theory classes and practicums that will help you integrate childhood development theory into practice. You learn how to develop responsive and inclusive environments for children, covering topics like:

    • program planning
    • child development
    • wellness
    • communication
    • administration
    • collaboration with families.

    You can complete this program on a full-time or part-time basis.

    You graduate with skills in:

    • health and safety practices
    • cultural competency
    • behaviour management
    • collaboration
    • curriculum planning

    You learn to think methodically about your fundamental beliefs and how cultural, social and other forces shape your sense of self and your relationship with others. These skills equip you to support and nurture young learners.

    Requirements and Admission Criteria for Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma at Vancouver Island University

    Entry Requirements

    • General admission requirements apply.
    • English 12 with a minimum “C” grade, or equivalent.
    • Résumé describing education and employment background.
    • Two letters of reference, completed on a University Reference Form, from persons other than relatives. At least one letter of reference must document completion of 20 hours in a licensed child care facility such as a family childcare, group day care or pre-school.
    • Group interview with the program Chair and faculty.

    Notes on Admission

    • Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

    Practicum Placements

    • International Students will require a valid practicum work permit before being placed in practicum. Submit copy of practicum work permit to the ECEC faculty.
    • Documented completion of a C.P.R. Emergency Child Care Certificate, or equivalent (e.g., St. John’s Ambulance Standard First Aid Certificate or Basic Life Support, Level B). The First Aid certification must be valid for entire practicum placements. Documentation to be submitted to ECEC Faculty before first day of practicum.
    • Fieldwork and/or practicums will require a satisfactory criminal record check prior to placement. Criminal Record Checks are requested through VIU. The Registration Centre at VIU will contact prospective students by mail regarding the requirements for a Criminal Record Check. Criminal Record Checks are processed through the Ministry according to the Criminal Records Review Act. A check completed through the RCMP is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the Act.

    English Program Requirements

    Test
    Minimum score
    TOEFL iBT Paper Edition
    550 (no section below 56)
    TOEFL iBT
    88 (no section below 20), 4.5 (No section below 4.0)
    IELTS (Academic)
    6.5 (no band below 6.0)
    CAEL
    60
    C2 Proficiency, formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
    176 overall
    C1 Advanced, formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
    176 overall
    English Studies 12 (BC)
    Min. “C
    Pearson (PTE) Academic
    60 (no section below 60)
    Duolingo English Test
    115 (no band less than 105)
    International Baccalaureate English A1/A2
    Higher Level (HL)/ Standard Level (SL) grade 3 or higher
    VIU English Language Centre
    Successful completion of University Preparation Level 5 (UP5) or EAP Level IV on BC EAL articulation
    Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition
    Grade 2 or higher
    Accredited institution where English is the primary language of instruction, located in a country that satisfies VIU’s English Language Requirements
    Completion of recognized diploma (minimum 2 years) or degree program
    Accredited institution where English is the primary language of instruction, located in a country that satisfies VIU’s English Language Requirements
    Completion of six credits of post-secondary English composition and literature with a minimum grade of “C
    General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)
    English at the O-level with a minimum grade of C or 4
    CAEL online
    60
    Pearson (PTE) Online
    60 (no section below 60)
    TOEFL iBT Home Edition
    88 (no section below 20)
    ILAC Pathway Program
    Successful Completion of Pathway 3.3

    Career Opportunities after Completing Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

    • early childhood educator (ECE)
    • preschool teacher
    • infant and toddler educator
    • childcare centre administrator or manager
    • childcare director
    • special needs educator
    • childcare consultant
    • child development specialist
    • cruise ship or resort children’s coordinator
    • parks and recreation program coordinator
    • children’s yoga or music programs

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    22,892 / year
    Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma at Vancouver Island University
    Vancouver Island University
    Vancouver Island University
    Canada

    Canada, Nanaimo

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