Human Services FAQ

Early Childhood Education focuses on nurturing young children's development from birth to eight years of age.

Child and Youth Care Counsellor has a broader scope. You would work with clients from pre-natal through to 18 years of age, as well as their families in a wide variety of community agencies.

Educational Assistant prepares you to work in schools, supporting students and teachers.

Animal Assisted Wellness promotes wellness through partnering with animals to support clients.

A current clear criminal record check with vulnerable sector check is a legal requirement for coursework and field placements with children and youth. Lakeland College can't place students on field placement without it. If you don't provide the document, you will be withdrawn from the program.

You have many options when it comes to funding your education — government student aid, personal savings and scholarships are all examples. Please visit our Funding My Education page to explore your options and to learn more about what's available to you.

Students who complete the certificate qualify for a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification through the Government of Alberta (ECEII in Saskatchewan).

The ECE diploma program qualifies graduates as a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator in Alberta (ECEIII in Saskatchewan).

Yes, one course is offered through continuing education per term.

You need three courses, or nine credits, in order to work 65 hours or more per month at a childcare centre. Courses must include topics related to child development, programming and relationships.

If you are not working in the field, we'll work together to organize your practicums. 

Some students find placements near their home town or other locations where they have living accommodations.

You will require a recent, clear criminal record check, vulnerable sector. Some organizations also require an Intervention Record Check.

We'll review the available options with you and help you determine your practicum location.

Yes, you may. We offer four microcredentials online — check them out on the ASL microcredential page. We also offer two courses through our continuing education where you can study ASL.

You need to have already completed a certificate, diploma or a degree program. Students who complete this program come from a variety of professions.

Think of it as professional development. It's intended to complement previous knowledge and experience with a more in-depth study of mental health and wellness.

Yes, we offer the following diploma and certificate programs online:

• Educational Assistant
• Animal Assisted Wellness
• Early Childhood Education
• Child and Youth Care Counsellor

You'll need strong internet connection, good time management skills and interactions with children in order to complete your assignments. 

If you’re also working, time management is particularly important. We suggest you only take two classes per semester as a part-time student if you are working full-time.