June 26, 2025 | Alberta

If you have a passion for working with young children and are eager to build a rewarding career in education, becoming a certified Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in Alberta is a fantastic step forward. With Alberta’s structured three-tier certification system, individuals at different stages of their professional journey can find a suitable pathway to enter or advance in the field. In particular, Level 2 certification is a popular option for those seeking meaningful work, expanded responsibility, and more opportunities in early learning and childcare settings. 
 

In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get ECE Level 2 certification in Alberta. Whether you are just starting out or transitioning careers, this guide will provide a roadmap from choosing the right educational program to completing your application and beginning your journey in early childhood education. 

What Is ECE Level 2 Certification in Alberta? 

Alberta’s childcare system is regulated by the provincial government, which requires all staff working in licensed early learning programs to be certified. The certification levels—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 reflect the individual's educational background and training. Level 2 certification is a mid-tier qualification that allows educators to assume more responsibility within childcare programs. Individuals at this level can lead classroom activities, support inclusive practices, and play a more proactive role in planning and delivering early childhood curriculum. Obtaining Level 2 certification demonstrates that you have a solid foundation in child development, communication strategies, play-based learning, and safety practices. 


Bonus Read: How to Become an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in Alberta?
 

Why Pursue ECE Level 2 Certification? 

There are many benefits to earning Level 2 certification, including: 
 

• Expanded career opportunities: Work in daycare centers, preschools, early learning programs, and family day homes. 
• Greater responsibility: Plan learning activities, guide children’s development, and work more independently. 
• Pathway to Level 3: Level 2 provides a strong foundation if you later choose to complete a diploma and qualify for Level 3. 
• Job stability: Alberta’s growing demand for certified ECEs makes Level 2 certification a smart career investment. 
   

How to Get ECE Level 2 Certification in Alberta?

Step 1: Choose a Recognized Educational Program 

To get ECE Level 2 certification in Alberta, you must complete a Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program from an approved post-secondary institution. One of the most reputable and career-focused options is the Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program offered by CDI College. This program runs for approximately 40 weeks and combines classroom instruction with a comprehensive practicum component. The curriculum is designed to meet Alberta's certification standards and provides foundational knowledge in key areas such as: 
 

• Child growth and development 
• Language and communication 
• Health, safety, and nutrition 
• Play-based learning methods 
• Family and community engagement 
   

CDI College is licensed under Alberta's Private Vocational Training Act, ensuring its program meets all provincial requirements. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for Level 2 Early Childhood Educator certification through Alberta Children’s Services. Choosing CDI College ensures you receive practical, hands-on training and the theoretical foundation needed to succeed in early childhood education roles across Alberta.  

Step 2: Complete Your Practicum 

Most certificate programs include a practicum component, where you will work in a licensed early childhood setting under supervision. In Alberta, practical experience is a vital part of becoming a well-rounded ECE. For example, CDI College’s Early Learning and Child Care Certificate includes 380 hours of practicum in a real-world childcare environment. This allows you to apply your learning, interact with children, observe skilled educators, and build confidence before entering the workforce. 

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials 

Once you complete your certificate program, you will need to gather the required documents to apply for certification. This includes: 
 

• Official Transcripts: These must be sent directly from your college or university to the Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office. Photocopies or faxed documents will not be accepted. 
   
• Translation (if applicable): If your transcripts are not in English, they must be officially translated. 
   
• Resume (optional but recommended): Including a resume with relevant childcare experience can help clarify your background. 

Make sure your transcript clearly outlines the courses completed, practicum hours, and final grades. 

Step 4: Apply for Certification Through Alberta.ca 

To formally receive your Level 2 certification, you must apply through the Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office. The process is as follows: 
 

• Create an Alberta.ca Account if you do not already have one. 
   
• Complete the Early Childhood Educator Certification Application form online. 
   
• Submit your documents, including your official transcript. 
   

Once approved, you will receive your Level 2 certification, qualifying you to work in licensed childcare centers across Alberta. 
 

Step 5: Meet Additional Requirements for Employment 

While certification allows you to work legally in licensed childcare programs, most employers require additional documents, such as: 
 

• First Aid and CPR certification: Often a standard requirement to ensure child safety. 
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search: This confirms that you are legally permitted to work with children. 
• Child Intervention Record Check: This ensures there are no prior child protection concerns against you. 

It is a clever idea to begin gathering these items while your certification is being processed so you are ready for the job as soon as you receive approval. 

CDI College: A Trusted Pathway to Level 2 Certification 

If you are looking for a practical and trusted way to get ECE Level 2 certification in Alberta, CDI College’s Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program is an excellent choice. 

Program Highlights: 
 

• Duration: 40 weeks 
• Practicum: 380 hours in a licensed childcare setting 
• Curriculum: Covers child development, play-based learning, communication, health and safety, and family engagement 
• Career-Focused: Provides real-world training and prepares you to work in childcare centers, preschools, and early learning programs 
• Licensed: Meets all Alberta Private Vocational Training Act standards 
   

Graduates of this program meet the educational requirements for Level 2 certification and are well-prepared to begin work as Early Childhood Educators in Alberta. 

Career Opportunities with Level 2 Certification 

After receiving your Level 2 certification, you will be eligible for a variety of roles in the childcare sector, including: 
 

• Early Learning and Care Educator 
• Preschool Assistant 
• Out-of-School Care Worker 
• Family Support Worker 
• Child Development Assistant (under supervision) 
   

Level 2 also serves as a steppingstone toward completing a diploma and becoming a Level 3 educator, which opens the door to supervisory roles and increased leadership responsibilities. 

Final Thoughts 

Getting ECE Level 2 certification in Alberta is a meaningful step toward a rewarding and impactful career. With the right education, hands-on experience, and a little preparation, you can position yourself as an asset in Alberta’s early learning sector. Whether you are just graduating high school or changing careers, institutions like CDI College offer flexible, accessible, and accredited programs designed to support your success from the classroom to the childcare center. 
 

Take the first step today and explore how you can get ECE Level 2 certification in Alberta. Your journey to becoming a confident, compassionate, and certified Early Childhood Educator starts here.