Program overview
Admission Requirements
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Last updated on 2026-03-12

Program overview

Program Overview

Humber’s Bachelor of Child and Youth Care degree program equips students with essential knowledge and skills for effective work with children, youth, and families. The program emphasizes professional practice supported by various disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and community development. The curriculum focuses on relational practice, which is crucial for supporting children and youth facing crises or challenges. Students benefit from learning under highly qualified professors and guest lecturers, gaining insights from both academic and real-world experiences. Unique opportunities include developing practice skills in state-of-the-art interview labs and therapeutic play labs, designed to enhance family practice. The program integrates developmental, preventative, and therapeutic approaches, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of child and youth development and methodologies in professional practice.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program spans 8 semesters, providing a robust educational framework for students. The program is structured as follows:

  • Comprehensive understanding of child and youth development in the first two years.
  • Engagement in five areas of concentration during the final two years, including youth justice, social policy, community development, and international perspectives.
  • Integration of work-integrated learning experiences throughout the program.
  • Field experience courses, with a 230-hour field experience in Semester 3 and a 520-hour field experience between the third and fourth years.
  • Optional co-operative education opportunities for practical, paid work terms in the field.

Students will also have the chance to select a focus for their final thesis project in the fourth year, allowing for a tailored educational experience that aligns with their career aspirations.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

  • Field experiences with established community partners and school boards, providing real-world application of theoretical knowledge.
  • Access to state-of-the-art interview labs and therapeutic play labs for hands-on skill development.
  • Opportunities for professional practicums under the supervision of experienced professionals.
  • Optional co-operative education, allowing students to gain paid work experience in their field of study.
  • Engagement in industry events and activities that promote professional development and networking.

Career Options

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

  • Child and Youth Worker: Support children and youth in various settings, helping them navigate personal challenges and develop coping strategies.
  • Child Welfare Worker: Work with families to ensure the safety and well-being of children, often involving intervention in cases of abuse or neglect.
  • Mental Health Counselor: Provide therapeutic support to children and adolescents dealing with mental health issues, facilitating their emotional and psychological growth.
  • Community Development Worker: Engage with communities to develop programs and initiatives that support youth and families, focusing on empowerment and resource accessibility.
  • Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to child and youth care, advocating for systemic changes that benefit vulnerable populations.

These roles allow graduates to make a significant impact on the lives of children, youth, and families, contributing to healthier communities and improved social outcomes.

 

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

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