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Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education

Canadian Students
International Students

Program Details

  • Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education

  • Program Code: 2A9
  • Credential: Applied Degree
  • Duration: Four Years
  • School of Academics, Applied Arts & Tourism
  • Area: Applied Arts
  • Domestic Applications: OPEN
  • International Applications: CLOSED

Applicants who have an Early Childhood Education diploma and an Early Childhood Education advanced diploma from CNA (or equivalent), may apply directly to year 4; applicants who do not must apply to year 1 of Early Childhood Education.

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Program Overview

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Location/Delivery Modes & Dates
  • OA
    Online - Asynchronous - September 2026

The legacy of learning.
 
Studies show that children who participate in early learning and child care programs grow to build positive work habits, develop strong social skills and make gains in all areas of learning that benefit them throughout their lives.1
 
Early childhood educators contribute to this legacy of learning, as they lead children in activities to stimulate and develop their intellectual, physical, and emotional growth and ensure their security and well-being. Driven by multidisciplinary research-based practices, early childhood educators not only support children’s learning and growth, but also the dynamic and diverse needs of families and communities.
 
This continuously expanding and rapidly developing field plays an integral and essential role in the health and well-being of societies. Quality early learning and child care depends on qualified and resourced early childhood educators.
 
Building on the established Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma programs, the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education can be completed in two semesters for  graduates meeting all entrance requirements.
 
Throughout this applied degree, you will gain practical knowledge and vital hands-on experience in child development, as well as planning, developing, and evaluating responsive early learning and child care programs. As you advance through the degree, you have the opportunity to further deepen your understanding and develop competencies in program and curriculum design, supporting equity and inclusion, relationship-building, mentorship, leadership, and advocacy. Similarly, courses in this program will encourage students to be active participants while exposing students to diverse ideas and approaches as they engage in group work and develop skills valued by leaders in the early learning field: problem-solving, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and time management.
 
Through a sequence of educational experiences integrating theory and practice, this applied degree is designed to prepare you for work in a variety of early learning and child care programs.
 
As you build your own skills, you gain the knowledge to empower future generations.
 
Students may complete this program on a full-time or part-time basis and have a maximum of 12 semesters to complete the program.  A Learner Course Plan for course completion is developed with each student, based on an assessment of any previous ECE or related training they may already have, and any PLAR credits received. The Learner Course Plan specific to this program can be found HERE.

Online students register each semester from a list of course offerings. These offerings, and other important information about the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education program, are posted on the Online Learning program webpage Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education Degree Program.  To participate in courses, students must have an internet-ready computer system, including a webcam and head-set as per program specifications.  General internet/computer knowledge (e.g. e-mail, ability to save files, install programs, and related applications)  is a valuable asset.
 
 

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

  • Complete Year 4 in two semesters as per admissions requirements
  • Benefit from a flexible, online program allowing you to complete courses while working in the field
  • Engage in reflective practice, while working with children, families and the community
  • Focus on policy, ethics, advocacy and social justice
  • In depth knowledge of child development from birth to aged 12

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Economists have calculated that investing in quality early childhood education yields a return of up to $6 for every dollar spent.2  

OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education program graduates will be able to:
 
1.  Analyze research, standards, and trends related to early learning and development to inform curriculum, program decision-making, and early learning practice.
2.  Use pedagogical tools to observe, document, and assess child learning and development, adult-child interactions, and the indoor/outdoor environment.
3.  Evaluate significant Canadian and Provincial social and public policies as they relate to children, families, early childhood educator practice, the sector, and the broader community.
4.  Apply trauma-informed, anti-bias, and culturally relevant practices to developing relationships and environments that foster social justice and equity in early learning.
5.  Develop professional relationships with families using family-centered principles that respect family diversity, goals, and values.
6.  Demonstrate ethical practice with children, colleagues, and families based on a critical evaluation of individual rights, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
7.  Use critical thinking, reflective practice, and problem-solving skills to form professional and collaborative relationships with colleagues, families, and other professionals.
8.  Develop advocacy strategies with children, colleagues, families, and the community for quality early learning and care programs and services.
9.  Identify qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, steps of the research process, and carry out a research project related to the field of Early Childhood Education.

CERTIFICATION

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education, individuals may apply for a provincial Level IV Child Care Services (CCS) Certification through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL). For information on certification, please visit Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL).

REFERENCES

[1] Friendly, M., & Beach, J. (2021). Empowering the future: Best evidence for investing in early childhood education for Canada. Childcare Resource and Research Unit.https://childcarecanada.org/publications/other-publications/21/11/empowering-future-best-evidence-investing-early-childhood-education
 
[2] McCain, M. N. (2023). Margaret McCain introduction. In M. J. James & M. N. McCain (Eds.), Early Years Study 4 (pp. x–y). Council for Early Child Development. https://earlyyearsstudy.ca/report_chapters/margaret-mccain-introduction/
 

Admission Requirements

Eligibility for direct admission to Year 4 of the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education program requires the applicant to meet the following academic criteria:
 
1.   Have already graduated from the Early Childhood Education Diploma program at College of the North Atlantic (or equivalent*) within the last five (5) academic years from date of application or have graduated prior to the last five (5) academic years and hold minimally a current Level II Child Care Services (CCS) Certification through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL) for infant, preschool and school-age children. 
 
AND
 
2.   Have already graduated from the Early Childhood Education Administrative Leadership Advanced Diploma program or the Early Childhood Education Advanced Studies in Inclusive Practice Advanced Diploma program at College of the North Atlantic (or equivalent) within the last five (5) academic years from date of application or have graduated prior to the last five (5) academic years and holds minimally a current Level III Child Care Services (CCS) Certification through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL) for infant, preschool and school-age children. 
 
*Graduation from a recognized College or University with a diploma or degree in the area of Early Childhood Education. A combination of other post-secondary and industry experience acceptable to the college as an entrance requirement will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Information
To be employed in the field of early childhood education students must be able to lift and move children, materials and equipment (up to 50 pounds) on a consistent basis. As well, physical effort, strength and endurance is required in the supervision and care of children, e.g., maintaining balance, kneeling and bending, pushing and pulling strollers and carts, and moving quickly to assist children in emergency situations.

Entrance Requirements Effective 2027- 2028:

Eligibility for direct admission to Year 4 of the Bachelor of Applied Arts: Early Childhood Education program requires the applicant to meet the following academic criteria: 

1. Have already graduated from the Early Childhood Education Diploma program at College of the North Atlantic (or equivalent*) within the last five (5) academic years from date of application or have graduated prior to the last five (5) academic years and hold minimally a current Level II Child Care Services (CCS) Certification through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL) for infant, preschool and school-age children.

AND 
 
2. Have already graduated from the Early Childhood Education Administrative Leadership Advanced Diploma program or the Early Childhood Education Advanced Studies in Inclusive Practice Advanced Diploma program at College of the North Atlantic (or equivalent) within the last five (5) academic years from date of application or have graduated prior to the last five (5) academic years and holds minimally a current Level III Child Care Services (CCS) Certification through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador (AECENL) for infant, preschool and school-age children.

*Graduation from a recognized College or University with a diploma or degree in the area of Early Childhood Education.

Additional Information
To be employed in the field of early childhood education students must be able to lift and move children, materials and equipment (up to 50 pounds) on a consistent basis. As well, physical effort, strength and endurance is required in the supervision and care of children, e.g., maintaining balance, kneeling and bending, pushing and pulling strollers and carts, and moving quickly to assist children in emergency situations.

Courses

 

Semesters 1 to 5 - Refer to Early Childhood Education
Semesters 6 to 7 - Refer to Early Childhood Education Administrative Leadership or Early Childhood Education Advanced Studies in Inclusive Practice
 
CODE TITLE Hrs/wk
Semester 8 Fall CU Cr Le La
EE4005 Play With(in) Nature 3 4 3 2
EE4010 Social Justice in ECE 3 3 3 0
EE4015 Pedagogical Documentation 3 4 3 2
EE4021 Research in Early Childhood Education 3 4 4 0
EE4026 Supporting Well-being and Belonging 3 3 3 0
           
Semester 9 Winter CU Cr Le La
EE4030 Policy, Ethics, and Advocacy 3 3 3 0
EE4035 Inclusion III 3 3 3 0
EE4041 Indigenous Peoples and Education 3 4 4 0
EE4046 Educator as Researcher 3 5 5 0
EE4050 Multiliteracies in ECE 3 4 3 2
 

Careers & Pathways

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Upon successful completion of the program, combined with relevant industry experience, graduates will be prepared for employment in a variety of early learning and child care settings. These could include but are not limited to the following:

  • Early Childhood Educator
  • Administrator of a regulated child care service
  • Instructor of ECE
  • Program Consultant
  • Inclusion Consultant
  • Capacity Consultant
  • Family Child Care Home Monitor
  • Employee of an ECE Professional Association
  • Independent Consultant
  • Industry Policy Analysis

There’s a world of possibilities in the Early Childhood Education sector! With a variety of dynamic roles and settings to choose from, you will inspire and nurture young minds during their most formative time, while gaining certification in early-learning and child care environments and growing your career along the way. Learn more about one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most in-demand sectors at https://www.ecehrc.ca/become-an-ece

Tuition & Fees

Canadian Students
The confirmation fee is due within two weeks of receipt of your Letter of Acceptance. It is required in order to hold your seat in the program.
Mandatory Fees

Application Fee - $30.00 (per program)

A non-refundable fee required for each application submitted to the College | Application Page

Application fees are only refundable if the program does not go ahead, and the applicant does not want to transfer the application to another program.

Confirmation Fee - $105.00 (per program annually)

A non-refundable annual fee due upon confirming acceptance into each program. This covers registration and student association services and must be paid each academic year.

Academic Audit Fee - $50.00 (once per program)

A one-time fee assessed for auditing academic records during your program.

Technology Fee - $83.00 (per semester)

A semester-based fee to support student access to software, internet, and digital services across all campuses.

Full-Time Student Fees
Applied Degree Programs:
School Regular Term
(15 weeks)		 Intersession
(up to 7 weeks)
Academics, Applied Arts & Tourism $2,206.00 (per semester) $1,051.00 (per semester)
Part-Time Student Fees
Applied Degree Programs:
Program Type Tuition Fee
Applied Degree Programs $641.00 (per course)
Regulations

All student fees must be paid by the date specified in each term. These dates can be found in the Academic Calendar .

  • Students receiving Student Aid must present their notification of award on the first day of classes. These students may defer payment until aid is received, at which time fees must be paid in full.
  • Students who do not pay fees within the prescribed time may have their registration cancelled.
  • Students with outstanding balances are:
    • Ineligible for future term registration
    • Unable to receive diplomas, transcripts, or grade reports
    • Denied access to online grades until the balance is paid in full

It is the student's responsibility to clear all balances and contact their campus Student Services office with any account inquiries.

Additional Notes
  • If the College cancels a program, all tuition and fees will be fully refunded.
  • Out-of-sequence students registering or withdrawing mid-term will be charged on a pro-rated basis.
  • Students taking additional courses beyond a standard load must pay for each extra course.
  • Senior citizens (60+) receive a 50% discount on confirmation fees and tuition.
  • Students auditing a course must pay:
    • 50% of tuition
    • 100% of any applicable technology fees

International Students
A fee, which is applied toward program tuition and compulsory fees and includes a deposit fee, is due within two weeks of receipt of your Letter of Acceptance.
Mandatory Fees

Application Fee - $100.00 (per program)

A non-refundable fee required for each application submitted to the College | Application Page

Confirmation Fee - $105.00 (per program annually)

A non-refundable annual fee due upon confirming acceptance into each program. This covers registration and student association services and must be paid each academic year.

Deposit Fee - $1,500.00 (Included in First Semester Tuition)

A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit required to secure your seat. Included in first semester tuition.

Academic Audit Fee - $50.00 (once per program)

A one-time fee assessed for auditing academic records during your program.

Technology Fee - $83.00 (per semester)

A semester-based fee to support student access to software, internet, and digital services across all campuses.

Full-Time Student Fees
School Regular Term
(15 weeks)		 Intersession
(up to 7 weeks)
Academics, Applied Arts & Tourism $8,974.00 (per semester) $4,489.00 (per semester)
Part-Time Student Fees
Applied Degree Programs:
Program Type Tuition Fee
Applied Degree Programs $2,197.00 (per course)
Estimated Program Costs

The document below provides a summary of estimated program costs for international students applying to the 2026–2027 academic year. Please note that all amounts are approximate and subject to change without notice. These costs apply only to international applicants.

Download Estimated Program Costs (PDF)

Making Payments

Application Fee

If applying online, the application fee must be paid via credit card during the submission of your application to College of the North Atlantic.

Tuition and Other Payments

College of the North Atlantic has partnered with PayMyTuition for all international tuition payments. All tuition payments, unless otherwise noted, can be paid via PayMyTuition.

  • Payments can be made from any bank, in any country, and in any currency.
  • Offers better than bank exchange rates.
  • Fast, secure, and cost-effective.
Please note that you can only use PayMyTuition once you have been assigned a CNA student number.

Regulations

All student fees must be paid by the date specified in each term. These dates can be found in the Academic Calendar .

  • Students receiving Student Aid must present their notification of award on the first day of classes. These students may defer payment until aid is received, at which time fees must be paid in full.
  • Students who do not pay fees within the prescribed time may have their registration cancelled.
  • Students with outstanding balances are:
    • Ineligible for future term registration
    • Unable to receive diplomas, transcripts, or grade reports
    • Denied access to online grades until the balance is paid in full

It is the student's responsibility to clear all balances and contact their campus Student Services office with any account inquiries.

Additional Notes
  • If the College cancels a program, all tuition and fees will be fully refunded.
  • Out-of-sequence students registering or withdrawing mid-term will be charged on a pro-rated basis.
  • Students taking additional courses beyond a standard load must pay for each extra course.
  • Senior citizens (60+) receive a 50% discount on confirmation fees and tuition.
  • Students auditing a course must pay:
    • 50% of tuition
    • 100% of any applicable technology fees

College of the North Atlantic reserves the right to cancel or alter the delivery date and location of any program offering and delivery method, and will do so in a timely manner in order to minimize the impact on applicants.

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