UBC’s Faculty of Education is offering a program of courses that would lead to the BC Early Childhood Education (ECE) Assistant and Basic Certificates. These credentials are required by the Ministry of Children and Family Development to work in early childhood settings (ages birth to 5 years) in BC. Upon completion of the courses in the program, graduates apply to the Early Childhood Education Registry for certifications.

Coursework for both certificates is offered 100% online, allowing the flexibility to work and manage other responsibilities while preparing for an exciting career in Early Childhood Education! Most practica will take place in the Lower Mainland. Once students are admitted, they can discuss with their advisor the potential for a rural or non-Lower Mainland practicum.

An individual with the Assistant Certificate is able to work in a child care setting under the supervision of a qualified Early Childhood Educator. To become a fully qualified Early Childhood Educator, an individual must take all courses in the Basic Certificate Program and apply to the Early Childhood Education Registry for certification.

BC ECE Assistant Certificate

One of (3 credits):

• ECED 401 - Supporting Young Children's Health and Well-Being in Early Childhood Settings (child health, safety and nutrition)
• EPSE 406 - Typical and Atypical Development in Infants and Children (child development)
• ECED 407 - Supporting Early Learning in the Pre-School Years (child guidance)

BC ECE Basic Certificate

13 courses (39 credits) of prescribed online courses and 9 credits of on-site practicum (48 credits total).

The ECE Basic Certificate requires that you take the following courses

• • ECED 400 -  Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Care
  • ECED 401 - Supporting Young Children's Health and Well-Being in Early Childhood Settings
  • ECED 405 - Foundations of Curriculum and Instruction in Early Childhood Education
  • ECED 406 - Early Learning Curriculum in the Pre-School Years
  • ECED 407 - Supporting Early Learning in the Pre-School Years
  • ECED 420 - History of Early Childhood Education
  • ECED 421 - Supporting Young Children Through Home, School, and Community Relationships
  • ECED 438 - Observation and Documentation in Early Childhood Settings
  • ECED 439 - Assessment of Infants and Young Children with Special Needs
  • ECED 442 - Supporting Indigenous Infants and Young Children within the Context of Their Communities
  • EPSE 348 - Family-Centred Practice for Children with Special Needs
  • EPSE 406 - Typical and Atypical Development in Infants and Children
  • LLED 441 - Introduction to Teaching Children's Literature

Practicum

• • ECED 490 - Early Childhood Education Practicum & Seminar I  Prerequisites: ECED 400 and 438
  • ECED 491 - Early Childhood Education Practicum & Seminar II  Prerequisites: All of ECED 400, 401, 438, 490 and EPSE 406 (or other approved course)
  • ECED 495 - Early Childhood Education Practicum & Seminar III  Prerequisites: All of ECED 400, 401, 406, 407, 438, 490, 491 and EPSE 406 (or other approved course)

Find out more information about how to apply and register.

For the most up-to-date information on this program, including admissions information and program requirements, please visit the Early Childhood Education website.

Apply via the PDCE PayPortal