Child and Youth Care at Cambrian College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Program Overview

Launch a rewarding career in child and youth work programs in Ontario with our nationally accredited Child and Youth Care (CYCP) program. This program is designed to guide at-risk youth and their families through real-world training. You will gain the knowledge and placement experiences necessary to work with youth facing complex emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.

Through this program, you will learn to navigate various agencies and services, including correctional facilities, mental health, educational, and child welfare systems. The curriculum combines theory, lab courses, and hands-on fieldwork, allowing you to develop essential skills to facilitate positive change for children, adolescents, and their families. Please note that fieldwork placements may require you to follow shift work schedules, including nights and weekends.

Program Structure

The Child and Youth Care program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a period of 6 semesters (3 years). The program is delivered on-campus and is full-time, ensuring that students receive the necessary support and resources throughout their studies.

Program Length: 6 Semesters / 3 Years
Accelerated option available to earn a three-year advanced diploma in two years (study 10 months per year)
Two placements provide real-world experience
Option to earn a second diploma in another community services program in just one year upon graduation

Students must complete specific requirements before commencing placements in Semesters 3 and 6, including obtaining a current First Aid Certificate and a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on fieldwork placements in various community settings, including:

Child and Community Resources: Focus on applied behavior analysis and early child development.
Better Beginnings Better Futures: Practical work experience with a prevention program for high-risk communities.
Sudbury Action Centre for Youth (SACY): Services for youth aged 16-24, providing support with housing and employment.

Work-integrated learning opportunities that blend academic learning with practical experience.
Access to community involvement opportunities to enhance your educational journey.

Career Options

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Community Agency Worker: Support individuals and families in accessing community resources and services.
School Support Worker: Assist students with emotional and behavioral challenges within educational settings.
Youth Detention Facility Staff: Work with at-risk youth in correctional settings, providing guidance and support.
Children’s Aid Society Worker: Help protect and support children in need of care and assistance.
Mental Health Support Worker: Provide support to individuals dealing with mental health issues in community or hospital settings.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Cambrian College official website

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Child and Youth Care program, prospective students must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Graduates of the new curriculum (OSS) must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent, or mature student status, including:

Any grade 12 English (C) or (U)

For international students, additional requirements may apply. It is recommended to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding these requirements.

Before commencing placement (Semesters 3 and 6 only), all students must have current:

First Aid Certificate
Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check

It is also recommended that students possess computer competency in relevant software.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure their place in the program.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction for all our programs is English. You must have sufficient English language skills and experience to fully participate in classroom lectures, assignments, discussions, and examinations.

We assess international applications on an individual basis. All general and specific program requirements must be met, including senior-level English credits.

Cambrian College accepts the following English proficiency tests to satisfy our English Academic Requirements:

TOEFL
IELTS
PTE (Pearson)
Duolingo

If you need to improve your English skills, you can apply for our English for Academic Purposes program. Once you complete the program, you will be accepted into our diploma or certificate programs.

Minimum Language Requirements

The following are the minimum Language Requirements based on the type of credential:

Credential	IELTS (Academic)	TOEFL	PTE (Pearson)	Duolingo
Diploma / Certificate*	6.0 (no band under 5.5)	550 (paper-based test) 80 (internet-based test)	58	105-115
Grad Certificate	6.5 (no band under 6.0)	570 (paper-based test) 84 (internet-based test)	61	120+
Degrees	6.5 (no band under 6.0)	88 (internet-based test)	58	N/A

*Social Service Worker (SSPG) and Social Services Worker – Indigenous Specialization (SSIS) must meet the minimum requirement listed under Grad Certificate.

We have partnered with Humber College to deliver the IELTS English proficiency test at our Barry Downe campus. For more information about our on-campus IELTS testing centre, please inquire directly.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!