COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES · CANADA
Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma
Diploma · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Diploma
Level
- Online, Part-timeFlexible Delivery
- September, January, AprilMultiple Intake Options
- Meets BC Licensing RequirementsProfessional Certification
- Practicum in your community (where possible)Practical Experience
This diploma program prepares you to support children with special needs in early childhood settings. It builds upon an Early Childhood Education certificate or equivalent, adding specialized courses focused on inclusive practices and individualised support. The program is designed for flexibility, offered entirely online and on a part-time basis, allowing you to continue working while studying. Graduates will be equipped with the compassion, patience, and adaptability required to advocate for and nurture children with diverse learning styles and abilities.
Careers
Graduates can enjoy a rewarding career creating safe and interactive learning environments for children. You will help children develop social skills, build self-esteem, and learn important life skills.
- Early Childhood Educators in child care centres, early learning programs, preschool programs, recreational facilities, and more.
- Home Childcare Providers.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma?
- Applicants must have completed an Early Childhood Education certificate or an equivalent qualification before beginning the Special Needs Educator program courses. Access to a computer and internet is also required for online learning.
- What is the tuition cost for the diploma program?
- For domestic students, estimated Year 1 tuition is $3,816.33 CAD, plus fees, and Year 2 tuition is $3,163.22 CAD, plus fees. International tuition is not specified in the provided program data.
- How is the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma program delivered?
- The program is delivered entirely online and on a part-time basis, offering flexibility for students who wish to continue working while studying. It also offers multiple intake options in September, January, and April.
- What career opportunities are available after completing this diploma?
- Graduates can work as Early Childhood Educators in various settings like child care centres, early learning programs, or as Home Childcare Providers. The diploma also prepares graduates for roles as Support Workers or Consultants in Supported Child Development schemes.
- How do I apply for the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma program?
- To apply, you need to complete the College of the Rockies Application Form for Program Admission and submit all required documentation, including proof of your ECE certificate. Qualified applicants will then receive and need to return a CYFS Program Admissions Package.
Entry requirements
Previous EducationCompletion of an Early Childhood Education certificate or equivalent is required before starting the Special Needs Educator program courses.
Admission requirements and program details are listed for the 2026/27 academic year. Information for other years can be found by selecting the appropriate calendar year. Students must have access to a computer and internet to participate in online learning.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)Year 1 tuition is approximately $3,816.33 CAD, plus a $30.00 application fee and $103.50 student association fee. Year 2 tuition is approximately $3,163.22 CAD, plus a $69.00 student association fee. These are estimates for domestic students and subject to change. Additional lab fees may apply depending on course electives. Tuition does not include textbooks or supplies.
LivingStudents are responsible for their own transportation, travel, and living expenses related to practicum experiences, especially if they cannot be completed in their home community. Students must also budget for computer access, books, and supplies.
The above tuition and fees are for domestic students for the 2026/27 academic year and are estimates. International tuition is not specified.
How to apply
1. Complete Application FormDownload and complete the College of the Rockies Application Form for Program Admission.
2. Submit DocumentationProvide all required documents to confirm you meet the admission requirements, including proof of your ECE certificate or equivalent.
3. Receive Admissions PackageQualified applicants will receive a CYFS Program Admissions Package.
4. Return Admissions PackageComplete and return the received CYFS Program Admissions Package.
Accreditation
This program meets the requirements of the BC Community Care Facilities Licensing Branch for certification as a Special Needs Educator. Further information on licensing can be obtained from the BC Early Childhood Education Registry.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma?
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Applicants must have completed an Early Childhood Education certificate or an equivalent qualification before beginning the Special Needs Educator program courses. Access to a computer and internet is also required for online learning.
What is the tuition cost for the diploma program?
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For domestic students, estimated Year 1 tuition is $3,816.33 CAD, plus fees, and Year 2 tuition is $3,163.22 CAD, plus fees. International tuition is not specified in the provided program data.
How is the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma program delivered?
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The program is delivered entirely online and on a part-time basis, offering flexibility for students who wish to continue working while studying. It also offers multiple intake options in September, January, and April.
What career opportunities are available after completing this diploma?
+
Graduates can work as Early Childhood Educators in various settings like child care centres, early learning programs, or as Home Childcare Providers. The diploma also prepares graduates for roles as Support Workers or Consultants in Supported Child Development schemes.
How do I apply for the Early Childhood Education – Special Needs Educator Diploma program?
+
To apply, you need to complete the College of the Rockies Application Form for Program Admission and submit all required documentation, including proof of your ECE certificate. Qualified applicants will then receive and need to return a CYFS Program Admissions Package.