Learning in Community ECE Program (Blended Online)
We are excited to once again open applications for our unique Early Childhood Education (ECE) work-integrated learning (ECE-WIL) opportunity. This program will start in October 2023. It is designed for ECE assistants who want to upgrade their skills - it is offered online, so you can keep working while you learn!
Infant Toddler and Special Needs Educator Online Courses
We are still accepting applications to the Infant Toddler and Special Needs (ITSN) Educator Online Courses. Students completed an elective course (if applicable) in May 2023, and ECEC courses will start in September 2023. These courses are designed for applicants who have completed VIU’s Early Childhood Education and Care Certificate. ECE Graduates of other institutions will also be considered.
Make a difference one child at a time
We are currently accepting applicants to the Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma program Fall 2023 intake at the Nanaimo Campus.
- Start Date and Application Deadline
- The BC Regional Innovation Endowment Chair (BC RIC) in Aboriginal Early Childhood Development (AECD)
- Early Childhood Educator Dual Credit Program - YouTube
Program Mission Statement
The ECEC program at VIU offers meaningful, contextualized, and interwoven theory courses and extensive practica experiences to support students' emerging knowledge and professional practice as they work with young children, families, and community partners in ways that are grounded in the principles of the BC Early Learning Framework, Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework, the ECEBC Code of Ethics, BC Child Care Sector Occupational Competencies, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action, Child Care Licensing Regulation and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. In doing so, we are committed to creating healthy, sustainable, democratic and socially just communities.
Why Early Childhood Education?
The Early Childhood Education and Care program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with young children and their families in licensed child care settings. Students progress through an interrelated series of courses and practicum placements designed to integrate theoretical learning, awareness of self in relationships, and practical experience in becoming a professional Early Childhood Educator. This program may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis.