College Certificate - Health Care Aide

Program overview

Train for a high-demand career in Alberta’s health system with Keyano College’s Health Care Aide Certificate. This program is designed to prepare you for frontline care in just 8 months. You will gain the skills necessary to support individuals with complex health needs, whether caring for seniors, working in acute care, or providing support at home. The program combines classroom learning, lab simulations, and clinical placements, ensuring you are well-equipped to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every single day.

Program structure

The Health Care Aide Certificate program at Keyano College is structured to provide comprehensive training over a period of 1 year, divided into two terms. The program is delivered in a full-time format and includes:

• Classroom instruction
• Hands-on lab simulations
• Three clinical placements to gain real-world experience

This hands-on, provincially approved program ensures that students are prepared to write the provincial HCA exam upon graduation, which is now a requirement for employment in continuing care in Alberta. The program is designed for new learners entering the healthcare field, and no prior experience is required.

Featured Experiences

• Three clinical placements that provide practical experience in various healthcare settings.
• Hands-on labs that simulate real-world healthcare scenarios.
• Classroom learning that covers essential topics such as person-centred care, communication, and documentation in healthcare environments.
• Training in Alberta Health Services (AHS) protocols and safety procedures.
• Preparation for the evolving role of Health Care Aides, which will soon be regulated by the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA).

Career Options

Graduates of the Health Care Aide Certificate program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Alberta, including:

• Health Care Aide: Provide personal care and support to individuals in various settings, including homes and healthcare facilities.
• Long-term Care Aide: Work in long-term care facilities, assisting residents with daily activities and ensuring their comfort and safety.
• Home Care Aide: Deliver care and support services to clients in their homes, promoting independence and quality of life.
• Acute Care Aide: Assist healthcare professionals in hospitals, providing care to patients with acute health issues.
• Palliative Care Aide: Support individuals and families during end-of-life care, focusing on comfort and dignity.

Health care aides are in high demand across Alberta, making this program a valuable step toward a rewarding career in the healthcare sector.

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