Program Overview

The Health Care Assistant program is a 24-week certificate program that provides students with the knowledge and skills required to become a caregiver. The program focuses on providing care for people experiencing changes in their functional abilities, with an emphasis on Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

Program Details

• The program is offered full-time and includes classroom teaching, discussions, and hands-on experience in a nursing lab and various clinical settings.
• Students learn to become a vital part of the interdisciplinary health care team and, upon completion, can register with the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry.
• The BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry reviews and recognizes HCA programs in BC to ensure they graduate competent front-line health care providers.

Career Opportunities

• The program prepares students for employment in complex care facilities, extended care units, home support agencies, and residential settings.
• Graduates will work primarily with older adults.

Admission Requirements

• General Trades admission requirements apply.
• Successful completion of English 12 or equivalent.
• Meet the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry's minimum English language competency requirements.
• Completion of the VIU Health Care Assistant Program's English Competency Self-Declaration form.
• Completion of a Personal Profile form.
• Interview with program faculty.
• Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Notes on Admission

• Fieldwork, practicums, or clinical practice will require a satisfactory criminal record check prior to placement.
• A completed Immunization Requirements Form.
• Proof of WHMIS training.
• Foodsafe Level I certificate.
• Standard First Aid certificate (including CPR Level "C").
• Students will be required to complete physically demanding tasks within a variety of work spaces.

Recommended Personal Characteristics

• Sensitivity to the needs of others.
• Ability to move freely in confined spaces.
• Ability to speak confidently with people of all ages.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail.
• Ability to work quickly with accuracy and efficiency.
• Ability to manage time effectively and handle responsibility.
• Ability to problem-solve effectively in a limited time span.
• Excellent oral and personal hygiene.
• Willingness to show commitment to the program by regular attendance.
• Ability to be punctual on a consistent basis.
• Ability to participate in own learning by displaying preparedness for class and clinical settings.
• Ability to perform basic home management and cooking skills.

Start Date and Application Deadline

• Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
• Usual start dates for the Nanaimo campus are September and February.
• Start dates may vary at the Cowichan and tiwmawtx campuses.

Program Outline

Phase I

• HCAS 101T - Health: Interpersonal Communications | 1.2 credits
• HCAS 102T - Health: Lifestyle and Choices | 0.7 credits
• HCAS 103T - Health Care Assistant: Introduction to Practice | 0.7 credits
• HCAS 104T - Health and Healing: Concepts of Growth and Development | 1.7 credits

Phase II

• HCAS 105T - Healing: Common Health Challenges | 2.8 credits
• HCAS 106T - Healing: Cognitive or Mental Challenges | 1.5 credits
• HCAS 107T - Healing: Personal Care and Assistance | 2.8 credits

Phase III

• HCAS 121T - Practice Experience in Multi-Level and/or Complex Care | 5.1 credits
• HCAS 131T - Practice Experience in Home Support and/or Assisted Living | 1.4 credits
• Total Credits | 18.0 credits

Fees

• Tuition | $2919.13
• Student Fees | $343.26
• Total | $3262.39
• Grad Fee | $56.28
• Criminal Record Check Fee (approximately) | $45.00
• Application Fee | $43.40

Financial Assistance

• Financial Assistance may be available to students demonstrating financial need.
• This program is government student loan eligible.
• Applications for the academic year are available each May at any post-secondary institution or online at StudentAidBC.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.