The HCA Program is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to function effectively as front-line care-givers and respected members of the health care team. Under the direction and supervision of a health professional, graduates provide person-centred care aimed at promoting and maintaining the physical, emotional, cognitive and social well-being of clients. Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to work in a variety of practice settings including home support, assisted living, residential/complex care, special care units, other home and community care settings and acute care.

Regarding The Profession

In the realm of healthcare, as a Health Care Assistant (HCA), your main responsibility will be to support older individuals in maintaining their independence and enhancing their overall quality of life. Once you complete our 27-week Health Care Assistant diploma program, you will have various employment opportunities, such as:

1. Hospitals and community organizations
2. Residential, extended, and intermediate care facilities
3. Home support agencies
4. Adult care centers catering to seniors
5. Assisted living residences

Upon successfully graduating, you will be registered with the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry, granting you the eligibility to work in publicly funded healthcare establishments in British Columbia.

Learning Objectives/Outcomes: 

Upon completion of the HCA Program, graduates will be able to:

1. Provide person-centered care and assistance that recognizes and respects the uniqueness of each individual client.
2. Use an informed problem-solving approach to provide care and assistance that promotes the physical, psychological, social, cognitive and spiritual well-being of clients and families.
3. Provide care and assistance for clients experiencing complex health challenges.
4. Provide care and assistance for clients experiencing cognitive and/or mental health challenges.
5. Interact with other members of the health care team in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.
6. Communicate clearly, accurately and in sensitive ways with clients and families within a variety of community and facility contexts.
7. Provide personal care and assistance in a safe, competent and organized manner.
8. Recognize and respond to own self-development, learning and health enhancement needs.
9. Perform the care provider role in a reflective, responsible, accountable and professional manner.

Career Opportunities: Health Care Assistant – settings include home support, assisted living, adult day care, complex care, and special care units

Program Duration: 745 Hours

Delivery Method: Onsite Delivery

Instructional Method: Instructor led. This course is delivered face-to-face

Admission Requirements:

• Grade 12 or mature student of 19 years of age or
• English 10 or equivalent
• Must meet the English language proficiency as set by the B.C. Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/employment-business-and-economic-development/job-seekers-employees/hca_program_entry_english_language_competency.pdf

The following are to be completed prior to the first practice education experience:

• Proof of meeting current immunizations / vaccinations as per health care organization policies / guidelines (or signed vaccination exemption form, except TB)
• Criminal record check from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, including clearance to work with vulnerable adults.
• First Aid
• CPR Level “C” or “HCP”
• Foodsafe Level 1 (or a course deemed equivalent)
• Provincial Violence Prevention Curriculum (PVPC) E-Learning Modules

Health Program Outlines

Fees Update: The fees for International students is $10,500  & for Domestic students $7,500. $ 1,000 Scholarship for all students

Application Fee: $150 domestic students & 200 international students

Administrative Fee: $200 for Domestic & International students.

Testing/Assessment Fee: $200 for Domestic & International students.

Textbook Fee: $573.50

Lab Fee: $275

Course Material Fee-$250