Early Learning Program Development (Honours)
Kitchener Campus (Main), Canada
Bachelor of Early Learning Program Development (Honours)
Conestoga College
Early Childhood Education & Program Development
Program Overview: Early Learning Program Development (Honours)
The Bachelor of Early Learning Program Development (Honours) at Conestoga College is a four-year, paid co-op degree program that provides students with an applied understanding of developing early learning programs at the classroom and community levels. Throughout the program, students experience authentic, situational learning opportunities that highlight the links between theory and practice in engaging and meaningful ways.
Students are challenged to consider multiple theoretical perspectives as a lens to understanding social policy and determining promising professional practices that shape social and educational programs. The program emphasizes developing strong critical thinking and professional communication skills to work successfully in interprofessional teams.
Graduates meet the academic requirements for registration with the College of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario, qualifying them for employment as Registered Early Childhood Educators. Conestoga College and Wilfrid Laurier University also have an agreement that allows top-ranking graduates a pathway for admission into the Bachelor of Education program.
Key Program Highlights
- Paid co-operative education work terms integrated throughout the four-year program, providing real-world professional experience and income.
- Graduates qualify for registration with the College of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario as Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs).
- Pathway agreement with Wilfrid Laurier University for top graduates to pursue a Bachelor of Education in the primary/junior stream.
- Conestoga is ranked as having the Best Early Childhood Education Program in Canada by CourseCompare, and is recognized as the Best College in Ontario.
Curriculum & Modules
The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, covering child development, curriculum design, social policy, and leadership within early learning settings. Students progress through foundational courses, supervised field placements, co-op work terms, and advanced studies in program development and research-informed practice.
Human Growth and Development
CoreExamines human growth and development through current research and major developmental theories. Students explore observation as a vehicle for recording behaviours and discuss developmental health in relation to strong, healthy communities.
Learning-Centred Curriculum Approaches
CoreIntroduces students to the principles of learning-centred curriculum approaches, focusing on designing inclusive and engaging educational experiences for young children.
Program Design, Implementation and Evaluation
CoreExplores the frameworks for designing, implementing, and evaluating early learning programs within a context of research-informed practice, population focus, and social inclusion.
Social Policy and Advocacy
CoreChallenges students to consider multiple theoretical perspectives to understand social policy and determine promising professional practices that shape social and educational programs for children and families.
Inclusion and Diversity in Early Learning
CoreCovers current issues in early childhood education such as inclusion, family engagement, and program quality, preparing students to support diverse learners in various settings.
Co-operative Education Work Term
Co-opPaid co-op placements provide authentic workplace experience in early learning environments, allowing students to apply classroom theory in professional settings while earning income.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Early Learning Program Development (Honours) is competitive and based on academic achievement. Applicants with previous post-secondary education are assessed on an individual basis in accordance with College and PEQAB guidelines. All applications should be submitted through Uni4Edu for streamlined processing and support.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with Grade 12 courses
- Minimum Overall AverageMinimum average of 65% across required Grade 12 subjects
- English RequirementGrade 12 English with a minimum grade of 70%
- Advanced StandingApplicants with an ECE diploma or RECE designation may be eligible to bridge into the final two years of the program
- Prior Post-Secondary EducationAssessed individually in accordance with College and PEQAB guidelines and policies
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
- TOEFL iBTOverall score of 88 with no individual skill less than 22
- Alternative PathwayCompletion of Conestoga's General Arts and Science: English Language Studies program at the required level
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Conestoga College offers several funding opportunities to support students in degree programs. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may be applied directly to student accounts. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on available funding options.
Conestoga College Degree Entrance Scholarship
CAD 1,500 for students with an admissions average of 70% or aboveAwarded to students accepted into their first term of eligible degree programs who achieve a final admissions average of 70% or higher. The scholarship is applied to the student account in the Fall term past the 10th day.
OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)
Varies based on program, course load, and financial situationEligible domestic students may access provincial financial aid through OSAP. The amount depends on your program, educational and living expenses, and financial circumstances.
Conestoga Bursaries and Awards
Varies by awardVarious bursaries and awards are available to students demonstrating financial need or academic excellence. Contact Uni4Edu for details on eligibility and application procedures.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Early Learning Program Development (Honours) program are prepared for progressive careers supporting children, youth, and families in curriculum implementation, program development, and social policy work. The program's co-op component and strong industry connections contribute to high graduate employability in the early childhood education sector.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Conestoga College is widely recognized as one of Canada's leading polytechnic institutions, consistently earning top rankings for applied education, graduate employment, and student satisfaction. The college's Early Childhood Education programs have received national recognition for excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education | CourseCompare | #1 in Canada |
| Co-op Programs | CourseCompare | #3 in Canada |
| Applied Research | Research Infosource | Top 20 in Canada |
| Graduate Employment | Ontario KPI | 87% Employment Rate |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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