How long will it take to get my ECE diploma doing it part-time?
If you take two courses each semester (six per year), it would take approximately four years. For the Early Childhood Assistant (certificate), it might take half that time. Centennial College certificates and diplomas should be completed within five years of starting.
How much does the whole ECE diploma program cost?
The cost can be determined by adding up the fees listed with each course – in the calendar (which total approximately $7,500)
How long does a transfer credit take?
This will vary in length as the program supervisor needs to look at and assess all documents, before returning to our Records department to process - depending on the time of year, it can take two-six weeks.
I have worked in a daycare setting for a number of years - can I get any credit for that?
Through the Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) process, credit is possible. If you achieve a B+ or better in a first practicum, you have worked full-time for two or more years, and if all PLAR requirements are met, you can get credit for one placement.
Do I have to do Field Practicum during the day (one of the reasons I am taking classes at night)?
You must do placement during weekdays. A Field Placement in a daycare or comparable setting enables you to practice your skills with young children in a group setting.
There are three practicum experiences - one in each unit - each one is 25 days in length (75 days total for the diploma). However, if you have worked or are working in a child centre, you may only have to complete two practicum experiences. These practicums take place at the conclusion of Units 2, 3 and 4. You will have some choice as to the number of days per week you do your practicum. However, the minimum is one full 8-hour day, following a three-consecutive-day block. We attempt to place students in centres as close to their residences as possible.
Do part-time students at Centennial get any financial aid for their courses?
Financial Aid is possible for part-time students if they qualify; you usually must take at least three courses (60% of a full-time study load) to qualify. Bursaries may also be offered during the semester to students, promoted through your MyCentennial student account. For more information, please call Financial Aid, 416-289-5300.
Can I take a course during the day if seats are available, so I can get my diploma earlier?
Day courses usually have a large number of students. However, occasionally space may be available. Contact Lynn Haines, lhaines@centennialcollege.ca, 416-289-5000, ext 2337, for advice on day sections.
After receiving my diploma, does Centennial offer a degree program in ECE?
Centennial College does provide links to other universities that offer an ECE degree. We also offer post-diploma certificates specializing in Special Needs and Administration.
After receiving my ECE diploma, can I teach kindergarten or primary grades?
No. A university degree and a specialization in education is necessary for teaching kindergarten and primary grades in Ontario (contact the Ontario College of Teachers for more information). Our ECE diploma qualifies you to be a teaching assistant in an elementary school.
Where can I expect employment after receiving my ECE diploma?
Our program is primarily designed for work in day care, nursery schools and related child care programs – focusing on ages from birth to 12 years. Most graduates find jobs within about six months of graduating.
What kind of pay can ECE graduate make?
Each facility will have a different pay scale, but on average you could make $25,000 - $28,000 per year.
How can I find out more information?
See our ECE website at centennialcollege.ca/ece. Specific details (courses, times, dates, costs) can be found on our program pages - ECE diploma and ECA certificate. For a PDF copy of our ECE brochure please click here.
For more details, contact:
ECE program supervisor, Lynn Haines, 416-289-5000, ext 2337, lhaines@centennialcollege.ca. |
