Child and Youth Care

What to expect from the program

This program will prepare you for child and youth care worker roles through theory-based courses and a hands-on practicum experience—both of which emphasize the importance of culturally sensitive responses, strength-based communication, and creating relationships that promote trust and empowerment.

You will also learn how to:

• Use a trauma-informed approach
• Observe the impacts of adverse childhood experiences on young people and families
• Implement activities for fostering resilience
• Support positive change
• Meet the diverse needs of young people and families

The course material uses a combination of various child and youth care theories and evidence-based skills to help you make a meaningful impact in your new career.

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity.

You’ll graduate this program with 600 hours of work experience from three practicums.

Career opportunities

The program will prepare graduates for employment in a number of careers in the non-profit sectors for child and youth care services, and various departments within municipal and provincial governments.

Employment opportunities exist in many settings including:

• group homes
• community and recreation centres
• family support
• residential programs
• programs for street-involved youth
• drop-in centres
• addiction services
• schools
• hospitals
• young offender programs
• women’s emergency shelters
• corrections
• medical clinics
• after school programs
• religious organizations
• summer camps

The diploma will be the minimum accepted credential with upcoming requirements for those working in the child and youth care field.