<p>This program leads to a Red Seal certification. Visit our <a href="/go/plan/trades">Trades page</a>.</p>

The Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with young children and their families in licensed child care settings. You'll progress through an interrelated series of courses and practica designed to integrate theoretical learning, awareness of self in relationships, and practical experience in becoming an Early Childhood Educator.

Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

Vancouver Island University

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1. High school graduation or equivalent
2. English 12 (C) or equivalent



Academic Admission Requirement



1. Resume describing your education and employment background
2. Two letters of reference, completed on a university [Reference Form](https://www.viu.ca/sites/default/files/viu-ecec-reference-letter.pdf), from persons other than relatives. At least one letter of reference must document completion of at least 20 hours of experience as a volunteer or an employee in a licensed child care facility such as a group day care or pre-school.
3. Group interview with the Program Chair and faculty (normally scheduled in April)


Additional Academic Admission Requirement

1. If you don't meet any of the admission categories, you may be admitted as an "Unclassified Student" to register into university-level courses which you meet the prerequisites. You will register after other students, so course availability will be limited.
2. You may be offered an earlier interview date if your application is submitted by the end of February.
3. Upon acceptance into the program, you must submit the following before placement in a practicum:
Current CPR Emergency Child Care Certificate or equivalent (for example: 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.
Criminal Record Check (instructions and requirements to be provided by VIU) 

4. International students are required to have a valid practicum work permit before being placed in practicum.

5. Enrollment in this program is limited. Admission is on a competitive basis. Meeting or exceeding the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission into the program. 


Admission Advice

Applications are accepted for September entry until late June for domestic students and until early June for international students. Early application is recommended.


When you are ready to apply, use our [pre-application checklist](https://www.educationplannerbc.ca/go/resources) to make sure you have everything you need, and visit our [How-to guides page](https://www.educationplannerbc.ca/help) for more information.

Application Deadline Advice

Early Childhood Education Diplomas

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URL for Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

Vancouver Island University

Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma

Overview

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