This fall, the College of New Caledonia (CNC) is expanding two high demand programs Web and Graphic Design (WEGD) and while Early Childhood Care and Learning (ECCL) to students across the region.
The WEGD certificate program will be available to students entirely online while ECCL will be delivered with blended learning allowing students to choose whether they learn in a classroom or online.
“Expanding programing to CNC’s regional campuses is a focus of the college’s strategic plan and goal to provide responsive, reflective, and experiential learning opportunities to all students,” said Dr. Chad Thompson, Vice President of Academic. “This expansion lays the groundwork for others like it in the future.”
CNC chose ECCL as one of the first programs expanded using a new blended model of learning to address the great demand for certified early childhood educators in B.C.
According to the 2021 BC Labour Market Outlook, the province anticipates 8,630 job openings for early childhood educators and assistants from 2021 to 2031.
The blended learning approach allows students to have the freedom to choose the instruction method that best fits their lifestyle.
If one week works better to be on campus and the next they need to be at home, a student doesn’t have to miss out.
“The need for early childhood educators is felt throughout every community the college serves,” said Jonathon Penny, Dean of Human Services, University Transfer and Business Management.
“There’s also an interest in ECCL from people across the region, which makes it the perfect pilot for this new blended learning delivery.”
CNC says the WEGD program also has many elements that fit well for an online expansion.
After finishing the certificate, students have the option to come to Prince George and complete the WEGD diploma, which allows for specialization in either web or graphic design.
“The WEGD certificate builds a foundation of skills that help students get their footing in the industry,” Penny said. “Website development and graphic design skills are also in demand and have widespread use in almost any industry or job.”
Registration for ECCL and WEGD is now open for fall 2022.
