Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-19

Program overview

Program overview

The Child and Youth Care program at Mohawk College is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to support children and youth aged 4 to 25, along with their families, who face various social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. Utilizing a relational approach, students will learn to develop and implement effective prevention and intervention strategies aimed at facilitating positive change. This program emphasizes hands-on learning through practical field placements, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals and their families.

Program structure

The Child and Youth Care program spans a total of three academic years, divided into periods of 8 months each. Students have two intake options:

  • September Intake: Students begin in September and complete the program over three years during the fall and winter semesters.
  • January Intake: Students start in January and attend classes for four continuous semesters in the first year, including Winter, Spring/Summer, Fall, and Winter, with no breaks during the summer.

In the second and third years, students will have breaks during the summer semester of the second year. The program includes three practical, hands-on field placement experiences, supported by dedicated Field Placement Specialists who assist students in finding suitable placements and provide ongoing support throughout their experiences.

Featured Experiences

  • Three different practical, hands-on field placements to gain real-world experience.
  • Support from two full-time Field Placement Specialists who collaborate with students to determine placements and provide guidance.
  • Opportunities to engage in community projects and field trips to enhance learning.
  • Focus on trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and conflict management during field placements.
  • Interactive simulations and labs to further develop course concepts.

Career Options

Graduates of the 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 and Youth Counsellor: Provide therapeutic support to young individuals facing emotional and behavioral issues, facilitating their personal growth.
  • Youth Support Worker: Assist at-risk youth in community settings, offering guidance and resources to help them succeed.
  • Child and Youth Practitioner: Work in schools or community organizations to implement programs that promote positive development and well-being.
  • Community Services Worker: Collaborate with families and community organizations to address the needs of children and youth in various social contexts.

 

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

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