Early Learning and Child Care

Early Learning Instructor sitting at table with 3 young children

Open doors and imaginations.

Learn to support children and families in the early years of development and growth.

COVID-Related Program Delivery Information

Courses in the Early Learning Child Care Program will be delivered this winter through a mix of methods. Courses for winter will be delivered online with some mix of scheduled ZOOM sessions and other online activities in Moodle, YukonU's online learning platform.

Online courses will require that you access to your own computer and Internet connection. 

More information about the online platforms that will be used for fall instruction can be found at www.yukonu.ca/student-life/technical-resources

Students new to online learning are encouraged to take the brief online introductory workshop Distance Learning Success.  Contact the Academic Support Centre for more information:

www.yukonu.ca/student-life/learning-matters/academic-support-centre

Program description

The objective of the Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) program is to meet the needs identified by the community for the educational preparation of early childhood educators. 

We provide opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to provide early learning opportunities and child care for young children and families.

Throughout the program, students learn to assist children in all areas of growth and development.

Theory courses for the ELCC program offer the option of either face-to-face or video/online delivery.


Certificate program

The ELCC certificate program may be pursued on a full- or part-time basis and consists of 13 courses, including English, two practicum placements and one elective for a total of 35 credits.


Diploma program

The ELCC diploma program may be pursued on a full- or part-time basis and consists of 24 courses, including English, four practicum placements and three electives for a total of 66 credits.

Admission requirements
  • ENGL 060: Introduction to Literature
  • Grade 12 graduation with English 12

Mature students

Due to the practical nature of the ELCC program, a number of mature students enter with years of related experience. A variety of methods have been developed to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills and thus receive credit for prior knowledge gained in the field. These include:

  • Challenge Exams: The ELCC program has developed Challenge Exams which allow students to receive credit for prior knowledge gained in the field.
  • Students must be enrolled in the ELCC program to be eligible to challenge any ELCC course.

For more information, contact the instructor/coordinator at 867 456 6989.

Other requirements
  • Acceptable current criminal records check including vulnerable sectors
  • Current immunization, including tuberculosis screening
Yukon First Nations Core Competency

Yukon University recognizes that a greater understanding and awareness of Yukon First Nations history, culture and journey towards self-determination will help to build positive relationships among all Yukon citizens. As a result, you will be required to achieve core competency in knowledge of Yukon First Nations.

For details, visit Yukon First Nations Core Competency

Career opportunities

Early Learning and Child Care program graduates are qualified to work in the following areas:

  • early childhood educators in child care centres
  • family day homes, and preschools
  • program assistants in child development centres and child care facilities
  • educational assistants in kindergarten and the early grades
  • nannies, family support workers, and as child care licensing officers
Money matters

Fees

Tuition for credit programs is calculated per course credit. See money matters for more information.

Some programs and courses have additional fees -  see Ancillary Fees.


Student financial awards

Education is an investment in your future, your family and your community. Yukon University is pleased to support that investment by offering some of the most competitive tuition rates in the country, as well as several student financial awards to help offset your educational and living costs.


Financial assistance

There are government programs, scholarships, bursaries, awards and First Nation funding available to financially support you throughout your academic career.

Follow this link to government funding: http://www.hss.gov.yk.ca/ecebursary.php

See money matters for more information, or talk to our financial advising staff in the Student Services Centre. Email or call 867 668 5209 to make an appointment.

Program Guides

A program planning guide lays out the courses and requirements needed to graduate from a particular program. It guides you through course selection options for each term, provides a sample program pathway and acts as a tool to track your progress.