Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH) at Seneca Polytechnic - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

The Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH) program is a graduate certificate offered by Seneca College, designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills to specialize in infant and early childhood mental health. This program spans two semesters (8 months) and is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online and in-person coursework. Students will delve into critical topics such as family dynamics, attachment, brain development, health promotion, and trauma, all aimed at enhancing mental health outcomes for young families. The program emphasizes practical skills, including effective communication with families and advanced assessment techniques, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their future careers in this vital field.

Program structure

The Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH) program is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience over a duration of two semesters (8 months). The program is designed with the following key features:

Hybrid Delivery: A mix of online and in-person classes to accommodate diverse learning preferences.
Field Placement: An unpaid field placement in the second semester allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Skill Development: Focus on practical skills such as communication with families, screening, assessment, and advanced practice.

This program is also PGWP-eligible, allowing international students to work in Canada after graduation. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience prepares students for various roles in the field of infant and early childhood mental health.

Featured Experiences

The Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH) program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Field Placement: Students engage in an unpaid field placement during the second semester, working alongside infant mental health practitioners.
Real-World Application: Opportunities to integrate classroom teachings into practice while assisting children and families in community settings.
Experienced Faculty: Learn from faculty members who have extensive experience in the field, providing insights into current research and practices.
Networking Opportunities: Build industry connections through field placements and interactions with professionals in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH) program can explore a variety of career options in Canada, including:

Early Intervention Specialist: Work with families to provide support and strategies for children at risk of developmental delays.
Children’s Mental Health Worker: Support children facing mental health challenges through therapeutic interventions and resources.
Infant Development Program Coordinator: Oversee programs that promote healthy development in infants and young children.
Family Support Worker: Assist families in accessing resources and support services to enhance their well-being.
Child Welfare Agency Worker: Work within agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of children in vulnerable situations.

These roles are crucial in promoting positive mental health outcomes and supporting families in various community settings.

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

Visit Seneca Polytechnic official website

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Infant & Early Child Mental Health (IMH), applicants must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Ontario university/college degree, three-year college diploma, or equivalent.
Applicants with a two-year college diploma and at least six months of full-time work experience in early childhood development or a related field may be considered for admission. A relevant resumé and references must be provided.

Canadian citizens or permanent residents educated outside of Canada must provide a WES or an ICAS credential evaluation.

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

For international students, it is essential to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process.

For specific information regarding Academic Requirements for international students, please consult with LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

All applicants to Seneca must be well prepared to study in English. If you are coming from a country where English is not the primary language, you must show one of the following:

Successful completion of a minimum of two years of full-time study in a school and country where English is the primary language
Successful completion of a minimum of one year of full-time study at the postsecondary level in an institution and country where English is the primary language
Successful completion of an intensive English program
English proficiency test scores from one of the international English language testing bodies listed below. Only tests taken in the last two years are considered valid

Please note that the requirements below are the minimum cut-offs and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Highly competitive program seats will be offered to the most highly qualified applicants based on ranking from highest to lowest.

Tests	Graduate Certificate Programs
CAEL CE and CAEL online	Minimum 70 (Writing no less than 60)
Cambridge English Exams (B2 First/FCE, C1 Advanced/CAE or C2 Proficiency/CPE)	Minimum 176 with no skill below 169
Duolingo	Minimum score 120 to 125
IELTS Academic	Minimum 6.5 with no skill below 6.0
PTE Academic	Minimum score 60
TOEFL iBT (including MyBest TOEFL and Home Edition)	Minimum 88 with no skill below 22
TOEFL Revised Paper Delivered	No skill below 22

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!