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Early Childhood Education
Open to International Students
Area of study
Health & Human Services
Credential
Diploma
Program Length
2 Years | Full time
Tuition reimbursement of up to $5,000 per year is available
A tuition reimbursement of up to $5,000 per year is available to help cover tuition-related costs for students in Early Childhood Education programs. MITT students qualify for this reimbursement.
Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, attending part-time or full-time in a recognized ECE program in the 2023/24 until 2025/26 academic years, and commit to working for two years in Manitoba’s licensed ELCC sector following graduation.
For full information including application deadlines, and to download the application forms, visit the Province of Manitoba website.
Program Overview
CIP Code: 19.0709
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Diploma program prepares you to nurture and guide the next generation. Whether you are passionate about helping children explore their world, fostering creativity, or laying the foundation for lifelong learning, this program offers a pathway to a fulfilling career.
Key features include provisional accreditation by the Child Care Qualifications and Training Committee (CCQTC), an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level II designation, and a curriculum that incorporates Indigenous perspectives.
Core Information
January 2026 (Days)
Program Highlights
- Provincial Accreditation: Accredited by the Child Care Qualifications and Training Committee (CCQTC).
- Specialized Curriculum: Focuses on child development, guiding strategies, and inclusive programming.
- Indigenous Perspectives: Promotes cultural understanding through Indigenous-focused courses.
- Practicum Learning: Three practicum placements in licensed childcare facilities.
- Career Readiness: Includes MITT’s Bridging to Work workshops for employability skills.
Career Outcomes
- Early Childhood Educator (ECE II)
- Educational Assistant in Kindergarten Programs
- Preschool Teacher
- Infant and Toddler Educator
Entry Requirements
- Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent, including:
- Grade 12 Math (40S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Grade 12 English Language Arts (40S) with a grade of 65 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
International Students
- High school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent. International applicants must meet the general entrance requirements based on country/curriculum of study. Applicants must also meet the program-specific requirements, including:
- Senior level Math with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Senior level First Language Literature with a grade of 65 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- All high school grades will be converted to an equivalent Manitoba grade scale.
Additional Requirements
- Demonstrated English language proficiency (if educated outside Canada)
Find out more about Admission Requirements. For pre-practicum requirements, check out the FAQs below.
Tuition and Fees
| Estimated Program Costs (International) | Year 1 | Year 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $4,633 | $4,633 |
| Fees | $500 | $425 |
| Estimated Textbook Costs | $950 | $950 |
| Total Estimated Program Costs | $6,083.00 | $6,008.00 |
Costs are estimates and are subject to change. Visit Tuition and Fees and Textbooks and Supplies for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Textbooks and Supplies
A complete supply list and textbook information can be found on the Program Information page.
Laptop Requirements
Students must bring a Tier 2 laptop for this program. More information and technical specifications are available on the Laptop and Technical Needs page.
Yes. The program includes three practicum placements in diverse childcare settings, where students will:
- Apply developmental theories and guiding strategies
- Design and implement age-appropriate programs
- Build meaningful relationships with children and families
To qualify for the Early Childhood Education work practicum, students must meet the following criteria:
-
- Clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check or RCMP equivalent (dated within six months of the practicum end date)
- Clear Provincial Child Abuse Registry
- Current, approved immunization record (as per the WRHA guidelines for Health Care Workers)
To qualify for the Early Childhood Education work practicum, students must meet the following criteria:Child First Aid/CPR training
To qualify for the Early Childhood Education work practicum, students must meet the following criteria:Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certificate
To qualify for the Early Childhood Education work practicum, students must meet the following criteria:Food Handlers Certification training
To qualify for the Early Childhood Education work practicum, students must meet the following criteria:Valid co-op work permit
In addition to practicum experience, students benefit from MITT’s Bridging to Work workshops, which focus on:
- Developing employability and workplace readiness skills
- Transitioning confidently from school to career
Graduates are eligible to apply for Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level II certification in Manitoba, qualifying them for a range of careers in early learning and childcare settings.
Yes, we offer campus tours. Explore our Campus Tour options.
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Early Childhood Education
All Courses
Introduction to Early Childhood Education (ECE-250) — 40 hours
This course provides an overview of early childhood care and education, exploring the historical development of child care with an emphasis on Canadian and Indigenous perspectives. Students will also examine provincial regulations and their impact on curriculum approaches in various early learning programs.Written Communication Skills (ECE-210) — 40 hours
This course develops students’ proficiency in written communication through the creation of essential documents and online tools. The skills learned will prepare students for success in their studies and future roles within the field of early childhood education.Interpersonal Communication (ECE-220) — 40 hours
This course enhances students' ability to evaluate and improve interactions in both personal and professional contexts. Topics include effective listening, conflict resolution, assertiveness, and non-verbal communication, with an emphasis on strategies to address communication challenges.Child Development 1: Early Years (ECE-200) — 80 hours
This course introduces students to historical and current theories of child development, focusing on prenatal, infant, and toddler stages. Students will explore research approaches and gain insights into how children grow and develop during these critical early years.Observation and Documentation (ECE-230) — 40 hours
This course provides foundational knowledge in observation and documentation techniques. Students learn to write anecdotal observations and use webbing tools to link children’s interests and developmental progress to curriculum planning.Indigenous Perspectives in Early Childhood Education (ECE-460) — 40 hours
This course introduces students to the perspectives and practices of working with Indigenous families. Students will explore historical contexts, current trends, and strategies for incorporating Indigenous knowledge and cultural understanding into early childhood education.Child Development 2: Preschool Years (ECE-300) — 80 hours
Building on Child Development 1, this course focuses on children aged 3 to 6 years. Students will delve into theories and research on physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and language development to better understand and support preschool-age children.Play and the Environment (ECE-240) — 40 hours
This course emphasizes the importance of play in child development and the role of early educators in fostering responsive interactions. Students will design and implement developmentally appropriate curricula that support learning in inclusive early childhood settings.Health and Safety (ECE-270) — 80 hours
This course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to promote children’s health and safety in childcare environments. Topics include illness prevention, universal precautions, and the responsibilities of early childhood educators in safeguarding children’s well-being.Guiding Young Children 1 (ECE-291) — 40 hours
This introductory course covers foundational guiding techniques to encourage prosocial behaviour in children. Students will explore strategies for building positive relationships between early childhood educators and children at various developmental stages.Curriculum and the Environment 1 (ECE-320) — 80 hours
This course introduces students to curriculum design and pedagogy. Topics include literacy, storytelling, process-based art, and block play. Students will develop and implement learning plans, applying feedback to enhance their instructional strategies.Practicum Seminar 1 (ECE-305) — 10 hours
This seminar prepares students for their first practicum by outlining roles, responsibilities, and evaluation processes. Topics include observation techniques, assignment requirements, and the practicum evaluation structure.Early Childhood Education Practicum 1 (ECE-310) — 272 hours
This foundational practicum allows students to apply their skills in a childcare setting. Students will practice guiding strategies, create developmentally appropriate curricula, and engage in reflective practices to improve their teaching effectiveness.Early Childhood Education Capstone 1 (ECE-370) — 40 hours
This course provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their first practicum experience and develop a professional portfolio. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and collaborative strategies in early childhood education.Guiding Young Children 2 (ECE-292) — 40 hours
Building on the first guiding course, this class focuses on promoting prosocial behaviour through the use of rules, consequences, and effective communication. Students will explore how guiding language can shape children’s behaviour.Family (ECE-260) — 40 hours
This course explores the evolving dynamics of Canadian families and their implications for early childhood educators. Students will examine family challenges and develop strategies to support diverse family structures in early learning environments.Professionalism (ECE-330) — 40 hours
Students will explore their role as advocates and professionals in early childhood education. This course emphasizes leadership skills, professional growth, and the importance of advancing high standards within the field.Personal Development (ECE-280) — 40 hours
This course focuses on developing planning, organizational, and communication skills to help students maximize their learning experiences and prepare for professional success.Advanced Behaviour Guidance 1 (ECE-401) — 40 hours
This course examines how physical environments influence children’s behaviour. Students will learn to use tools such as running records and problem-solving frameworks to address behavioural challenges effectively.Curriculum and the Environment 2 (ECE-410) — 80 hours
This course builds on earlier curriculum courses, with a focus on sensory play, music and movement, and dramatic play. Students will design and implement learning experiences during their practicum based on course feedback.Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood Education (ECE-450) — 40 hours
This course equips students with the skills to create inclusive learning environments. Students will learn to support diverse cultural, linguistic, and developmental needs in early childhood settings.Practicum Seminar 2 (ECE-495) — 10 hours
This seminar provides guidance for students entering their second practicum, covering observation methods, assignment requirements, and evaluation processes.Early Childhood Education Practicum 2 (ECE-500) — 272 hours
This practicum builds on the foundational practicum, allowing students to refine their guiding techniques and create more advanced learning experiences. Focus areas include sensory play, music, and movement.Advanced Behaviour Guidance 2 (ECE-402) — 40 hours
This course addresses challenging behaviours, such as aggression and bullying. Students will explore strategies for fostering positive behaviour and learn to use advanced observation tools like the ABC Observation and Tally Sampling Record.Family and Community Relationships (ECE-430) — 40 hours
This course examines the importance of partnerships between families and educators. Students will learn to foster parent involvement, provide family support, and connect with community resources.Curriculum and the Environment 3 (ECE-440) — 80 hours
This course emphasizes outdoor and nature-based play, along with STEAM activities. Students will create and implement learning experiences during practicum, refining their teaching approaches.School-age Development and Curriculum (ECE-470) — 80 hours
This course focuses on the developmental needs of children aged 5 to 12. Students will learn to create inclusive, age-appropriate curricula that support physical, emotional, and cognitive growth in school-age children.Child Nutrition (ECE-420) — 40 hours
This course introduces fundamental concepts of nutrition, focusing on healthy eating habits for children. Students will learn to plan and prepare nutritious snacks and meals based on Canada’s Food Guide.Professional Behaviour Practices (ECE-480) — 40 hours
This course explores professional behaviour in early childhood education, emphasizing evidence-based practices and career resilience. Students will define their professional philosophy and examine emerging trends in the field.Practicum Seminar 3 (ECE-505) — 15 hours
This seminar prepares students for their final practicum by reviewing roles, responsibilities, and evaluation criteria. Students will also refine their professional goals and practicum strategies.Early Childhood Education Practicum 3 (ECE-510) — 272 hours
In this final practicum, students will lead learning activities and foster positive relationships with children and families. Emphasis is placed on outdoor play, STEAM activities, and professional reflection.