Bachelor Of Child Studies - Child And Youth Care Counsellor

Program overview

Support vulnerable children and youth through Mount Royal University’s (MRU) Bachelor of Child Studies — Child and Youth Care Counsellor program. This hands-on counselling program equips students with essential skills in mental health, relationships, and resilience. Graduates will be prepared to make a significant impact in schools, community programs, and residential care settings, ultimately becoming certified child and youth care professionals. With a focus on relational practice and child development, this program is designed to help students build strong therapeutic relationships and advocate effectively for youth facing life’s challenges.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Child Studies — Child and Youth Care Counsellor program is a 4-year degree that emphasizes work-integrated learning. The program structure includes:

• Hands-on practicum placements in various settings such as schools, shelters, and community programs.
• Opportunities to design, implement, and evaluate youth programs based on evidence-based practices.
• Development of counselling and case management skills applicable in child protection and justice settings.
• Experiential learning through community service projects and immersive study abroad experiences.

This comprehensive approach ensures that students gain practical experience while developing the necessary skills to support youth effectively.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Child Studies — Child and Youth Care Counsellor program offers a variety of unique experiences, including:

• Practicum placements that provide real-world experience in schools, shelters, and community programs.
• Community Service Learning, which integrates academic study with community service for hands-on learning.
• Immersive study abroad opportunities that broaden students' perspectives.
• Field school experiences that enhance practical learning and application of skills.

These experiences are designed to prepare students for the challenges they will face in their careers, ensuring they are well-equipped to support vulnerable populations.

Career Options

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

• Child and Youth Care Counsellor: Work directly with children and youth to provide support and guidance in overcoming challenges.
• Family Support Worker: Assist families in navigating social services and provide resources to improve family dynamics.
• Inclusion/Behavioural Support Worker: Support children with special needs or behavioral challenges in educational settings.
• Youth Justice Worker: Work within the justice system to support at-risk youth and facilitate rehabilitation.
• Child and Family Services Caseworker: Manage cases involving child welfare and provide support to families in crisis.
• School-based Child and Youth Care: Collaborate with educators to support students' mental health and well-being.
• Team Leader/Supervisor: Oversee teams working with children and youth in various settings, ensuring quality care and support.
• Program Designer/Evaluator: Create and assess programs aimed at improving the lives of children and youth.

These career options highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth across Canada.

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