College Diploma - Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) at Coast Mountain College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-08

Program overview

Program Overview

The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program at Coast Mountain College (CMTN) is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as an early childhood educator, specializing in the care and education of infants and toddlers. This program equips students with essential skills, knowledge, and learning dispositions necessary for provincial certification. The curriculum is grounded in current best practices in early learning and care, addressing the evolving needs of children and families in the 21st century. Students will engage in experiential and place-based learning, fostering creative thinking and problem-solving abilities in young children.

Program Structure

The ECCE Diploma program spans four semesters over two academic years, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. Here are some key features of the program structure:

Option to opt-out after completing 15 courses for a CMTN certificate.
Eligibility for various provincial certifications, including Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) and Basic Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certificates.
Experiential learning through field placements in diverse early childhood settings.
Courses delivered through blended learning, including online and in-person options.

Students can choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis, with part-time students having longer completion timelines. The program emphasizes co-creating curriculum with children and designing inclusive learning environments.

Featured Experiences

Experiential and place-based learning opportunities.
Field placements in various early childhood settings, allowing hands-on experience.
Focus on nurturing creativity and problem-solving in young children.
Collaboration with local First Peoples to embrace diversity in education.
Options for provincial certification throughout the program.

Career Options

Graduates of the ECCE program have a wide range of career opportunities in Canada, particularly in British Columbia. Here are some potential job roles:

Early Childhood Educator: Work in group daycares, preschools, and early learning centers, providing care and education to children from birth to age 12.
Education Assistant: Support teachers in kindergarten and Grade 1 classrooms, assisting with the educational needs of young children.
Family Childcare Provider: Operate in-home childcare services, offering personalized care for small groups of children.
Program Coordinator: Manage and develop early childhood programs, including those in community services and municipal parks and recreation.
Specialized Support Worker: Work in programs such as Supported Child Development and Infant Development, providing tailored support to children and families.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Coast Mountain College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-08

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Diploma program are as follows:

High School Graduation or Mature Student status
English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, or Equivalent
Criminal Record Check as required under BC Child Care Regulation
Two letters of reference confirming suitability for working with young children, written and dated within one year of the application
Up-to-date written submission of work history (Resume)
Proof of compliance with BC's Immunization and Tuberculosis (TB) Control
Comprehensive typewritten statement (approx. 500-800 words) outlining work and/or volunteer experience with children aged birth to six, career goals, and reasons for taking the ECCE program

*Students who wish to complete only CMTN’s ECCE Certificate must meet the same Academic Requirements as those taking the ECCE Diploma program.

*Students applying to the ECE Assistant program require English Studies 11.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

At Coast Mountain College (CMTN), all applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency before being admitted to any programs. There are three options available to fulfill the English language requirements:

Option 1: English Language Proficiency Tests/Exams

Applicants can complete one of the following accepted English proficiency tests, ensuring that the scores meet the required levels for their program of interest:

IELTS - Academic
- Listening: 6
- Speaking: 6
- Reading: 6
- Writing: 6
- Overall: 6.0
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL)
- Listening: 60
- Speaking: 60
- Reading: 60
- Writing: 60
- Overall: 60
TOEFL - iBT
- Listening: 12
- Speaking: 18
- Reading: 13
- Writing: 21
- Overall: 80
Pearson Test of English (PTE-A)
- Listening: 52
- Speaking: 52
- Reading: 52
- Writing: 52
- Overall: 57
Duolingo English Test
- Overall: 115

Option 2: English Pathway Program via Partnered Language Schools

Applicants may also fulfill the requirement through an English pathway program at partnered language schools, such as the International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC).

Option 3: Countries that Satisfy English Language Requirements

Applicants whose native language is English and who have completed at least three years of full-time education in an English-medium school in specific countries may not need to submit English proficiency tests. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!