The School of Early Childhood Education offers a full- and part-time Direct Entry Program for graduates of the Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT) ECE programs.  Qualified successful applicants enter the third year of the Bachelor of Arts (Early Childhood Education) program.  Students who enter the part-time program pursue courses in the evening and on Saturdays which are offered and administered by The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education in partnership with the School of Early Childhood Education.

Bachelor of Arts (Early Childhood Education) program offers a combination of academic studies and professional education including practicum experiences. Diverse learning opportunities prepare students to work with children from birth to age eight in a variety of settings for children and families that enhance their development, learning and healthy adaptation. The courses link theory with field practice that is undertaken in child care programs, public schools (early primary classrooms), special needs programs, family resource centres, children's hospitals, and other related settings.

The School's curriculum follows the University's tripartite curriculum model with core professional courses, professionally-related electives and liberal studies electives.

Field Education

Field education experiences constitute one quarter of a student's timetable each year. It provides excellent opportunities for students to apply theory learned in the classroom within authentic workplace settings which enhances students' opportunities to achieve the program learning outcomes. Extensive field education experiences permits students to develop their confidence, teaching and leadership skills, ethical practices and bridge the transition from student to professional in the field of early childhood education.

Professional Roles after Graduation

Graduates of the program are qualified for positions as early childhood educators in early childhood education and care programs, programs for children with special needs, early years learning centres and family resource programs. Some graduates are employed by community agencies working with children and families, provincial, municipal, or federal governments, community colleges, and various media for children. Graduates may apply to a faculty of education and for credit for Ministry of Education additional qualifications (AQ) courses. Graduates may also apply for admission to Master's degree programs in a variety of human development, special education, curriculum theory, speech therapy, family intervention and social work programs.

TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL INFORMATION

1. Students wishing to transfer, under exceptional circumstances, from the part-time program to the full-time program must do so by January of the calendar year in which the transfer is requested. Requests and reasons for the transfer must be directed to Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment and the part-time direct entry program co-ordinator. Admission will be based upon the availability of space, and the completion of all third year courses.
2. The School of Early Childhood Education reserves the right to reassess a student’s eligibility to continue in the program after three consecutive semester stop-outs.

PROGRAM PLANNING

Program planning can be completed on an individual basis by the student and the part-time direct entry program co-ordinator.

Part-time Direct Entry Program Co-ordinator