• Early Learning and Childcare Diploma

      At Train Alberta, we are committed to providing comprehensive and high-quality training for future leaders in early childhood education. Our Early Learning and Childcare Diploma (ELCD) is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to create enriching learning environments for young minds.
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    Start Date

    October 7, 2024

    February 3, 2025

    May 5, 2025

      Duration

      50 weeks

      Program Delivery

      Online instructor-led or in-person program

      Program Cost

      $8,810.00

      Admission Requirements

      We are excited that you are considering joining our Early Learning and Childcare Diploma (ELCD) program. To ensure a smooth admission process, 

      please review the following requirements carefully.

      General Admission
      English as a Second Language
      Program Cost
      Student Aid
      Additional Information
      General Admission

      Proof of Your ECE-2 Certification

      Applicants must provide proof of their Early Childhood Educator Level 2 (ECE-2) certification. 


      ECE-2 Certification Transcripts

      In addition to the certification, we require official transcripts from the institution where you completed your ECE-2 program. These transcripts should detail the courses you completed and the grades you achieved.


      Current Photo ID

      • A current, government-issued photo ID is necessary to verify your identity during the admission and instructional process. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport, or national identification card.
      • Ensure that the photo ID is not expired and contains a clear photograph of you.
      English as a Second Language
      If English is NOT your first language - One of the following English proficiency test scores is required:
      • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
        Minimum score: 60 (iBT)

      • IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
        Minimum score: 5.5 (Academic Module)

      • CELPIP / LINC / CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark)
        Minimum score 6.5 or greater in reading, writing, speaking, and listening components

      • Other Recognized Proficiency Tests
        Provide scores from other recognized tests or credentials may be considered, including: IQAS, WES, or Certificates or Diplomas achieved with backup transcripts for a minimum one year program in a recognized English-speaking country


      Program Cost

      Tuition: $7,350.00
      Material Fees: $175.00
      Graduation Fees:  $85.00
      Textbooks: $1,200.00

      Program Cost: $8,810.00
      Student Aid

      Accessing financial aid can help you invest in your education and worry less about how you will pay for it.


      Provincial and Canada Student Loans

      As Train Alberta is a Designated Educational Institution, students in the Early Learning and Childcare Programs (Certificate and Diploma) are eligible to receive Provincial and Canada student loans. After registration, students are directed to apply for student loans directly with their provincial student loan service centre.


      Alberta Child Care Grant Funding

      Students in the Early Learning and Childcare Program (Certificate and Diploma) may apply for and receive Professional Development Funding, provided they meet the eligibility criteria as indicated in the Alberta Child Care Grant Funding Guide.


      Canada-Alberta Job Grant

      Employers may be eligible to receive the Canada-Alberta Job Grant when they contribute to an employee's training costs with Train Alberta. To find out if you and your employer are eligible, visit the  Canada-Alberta Job Grant website.

      Additional Information
      Application Deadline: Ensure that all required documents are submitted by the application deadline specified on our website. Late submissions may result in delays or disqualification from the admission process.

      Contact Us: If you have any questions about the admission requirements or need assistance with the application process, please do not hesitate to contact our admissions office.


      We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our ELCP Diploma Program. Your journey to becoming an advanced early childhood educator starts here!

      ​Register Today

      Complete the form below to have us to contact you and determine your eligibility

      Having trouble with the form? Click here.

      Upcoming Diploma Programs

      Diploma - ELCD-11B

      • October 7 2024 - September 24, 2025

      Diploma - ELCD-13

      • February 3, 2025 - January 19, 2026

      Diploma - ELCD-14

      • May 5, 2025 - April 20, 2026

      CURRICULUM
      ELCD 213: Child Development III:
      This course investigates how children grow and develop, recognizing that  learning and development varies in each individual. 

      ELCD 242: Program Planning 
      This course explores program planning using theories and concepts outlined in Flight, Alberta’s early learning and childcare framework.

      ELCD 244: Inclusive Education 
      This course begins with a review of the origins, purpose and dimensions of  quality early childhood inclusive environments. 

      ELCD 248: Social and Emotional Learning
       Students will develop an understanding of how children develop socially and  emotionally in the context of relationships and a well-structured and planned  early learning environment.

      ELCD 264: Family and Community Partnerships 
      This course investigates the changing face of the Canadian Family. The main  focus will be to recognize and understand diverse aspects of Canadian family  with its implications.

      ELCD 268: Interpersonal Relationships 
      This course will examine the theory and research pertaining to the field of  interpersonal communications.

      ELCD 288: Program Administration
      This course explores the roles and responsibilities of administrators in childcare  programs. 

      ELCD 284: Indigenous Peoples
      The course will provide introductory knowledge of the history of Indigenous  peoples in Canada, related educational experiences and knowledge systems. 

      ELCD 291: Practicum Seminar III 
      This course is the first of two practicum seminars offered in the Early Learning  and Childcare Diploma program at Train Alberta.

      ELCD 293: Practicum Seminar IV 
      This course is the second and final practicum seminar offered in the Early  Learning and Childcare Diploma program at Train Alberta

      ELCD 296: Practicum III 185 Hours 
      This course is the first of two practicum experiences offered in the Train Alberta Early Learning and Childcare Diploma program. 

      ELCD 298: Practicum IV 185 Hours 
      This course is second and final practicum experience in the Train Alberta Early  Learning and Childcare Diploma program. 



      Why Train Alberta?

      Instructor-Led Classes

      Our Early Learning and Childcare program offers online and in-person instructor-led classes designed to engage your desire to learn and connect.

      Virtual
      Training

      Online learning platforms to provide flexible and high-quality education so you can apply your training to your work.


      Small Classroom Sizes

      Small classroom sizes ensure each student receives individual attention and tailored support from instructors and administrative staff.