Full-time Programs

ECED - Early Childhood Education - Distance

ECEM - Early Childhood Education - Apprenticeship

Program Entry

SEPTEMBER, JANUARY or MAY

Program Description

ECED DISTANCE EDUCATION DIPLOMA

Loyalist offers the entire Early Childhood Education program through Distance Education. Students are able to earn income anywhere in the country while they work toward their diploma at a pace that meets their personal and individual needs. Students can stop and start their studies to accommodate their life circumstances without losing credits. Some students may be required to complete a practicum at Loyalist’s Centre for Early Childhood Education. Distance Education students who take a minimum number of courses may qualify for financial assistance through OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program). 

Admission Requirements 

(a) OSSD or equivalent OR Mature Applicant 
(b) Standard First Aid and Basic CPR (level C) prior to practicum 
(c) Criminal Record Check required prior to practicum 
(d) Certificate in Dealing with Anaphylaxis required prior to practicum 

ECEM CHILD DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONER APPRENTICESHIP CERTIFICATE 
(formerly Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship)

The Apprenticeship program is for people interested in completing the Child Development Practitioner Apprenticeship Certificate (formerly ECE Apprenticeship) while continuing to work. As a registered Apprentice with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, you and your employer must enter into a contract which represents your employer’s willingness to support you through this certificate. There is no on-campus requirement for the Apprenticeship Certificate. 

In addition to the Child Development Practitioner Apprenticeship Certificate, if the apprentice completes three approved general education courses and provides proof of First Aid/CPR (level C), and a certificate in Dealing with Anaphylaxis, the apprentice will be eligible to receive the Loyalist ECE Diploma. For more information regarding the Apprenticeship Certificate visit: www.loyalistfocus.com 

Admission Requirements 

Anyone 16 years of age or over who has acquired a Grade 12 or equivalent level of education can apply. Anyone who does not have a Grade 12 diploma may obtain this qualification through night school or correspondence courses. Information concerning qualification requirements leading to certification can be obtained by contacting the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, (416) 326-5800, or a regional office: Belleville (613) 968-5558; Kingston (613) 545-4338; Pickering (905) 837-7721; or Peterborough (705) 745-1918. 

Approximate Cost and Registration 

Information regarding registration and fees for ECED and ECEM is available at loyalistfocus.com

Curriculum