Health Care Assistant Certificate

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• High school graduation or mature student status, with a minimum English 10 or equivalent, and Math 10 or equivalent.
  
  

*HCA program applicants who have not been educated in an English-speaking environment (a country with English language systems/institutions) are required to meet English language requirements as outlined in the BC Care Aide Registry.

PRE-PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS - PDF

• Standard First Aid Certification with CPR level "C"


• BC Food Safe Certificate Level 1


• Proof of a negative TB skin test. In case of a positive TB skin test, a negative TB chest x-ray report is required. (This requirement is only valid for 6 months)


• Solicitor General Criminal Record Search that reveals the absence of a criminal record


• Updated immunizations - measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis B, and current influenza vaccination and Covid vaccinations.

RECOMMENDED CHARACTERISTICS

• Ability to work under direction and to act with initiative as a member of the health care team


• A genuine concern for the well-being of others


• Patience and perseverance


• Flexibility, trustworthiness, and dependability


• Maturity


• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken English


• High standard of personal hygiene and grooming


• Ability to use problem-solving approach


• Physical stamina


• No sensitivity or allergy to latex


• Ability to work in environments where standards may be different from one's own
  
  

ACTIVITIES & DESIGN 

The program is divided into three levels. Each level consists of theory, laboratory practice, and clinical experience. The theory component is delivered through discussion groups, student presentations, lectures, demonstrations and guest speakers. Students apply the theory component in the laboratory and clinical settings.



Level One (12 weeks) is taught primarily in the classroom, laboratory, and intermediate care clinical, and provides a basic framework for the caregiving practice. The concept of caring is the focus. Students are introduced to the continuing care setting in this level.



Level Two (8 weeks) builds on the basic knowledge and skills developed in Level One. Focus is on special areas of care such as the person with dementia and home management.

Level Three (7 weeks) consists of clinical experience in a complex care facility, special care unit, and a community setting.



The Health Care Assistant certificate is earned with the completion of all 28.5 credits listed under the Health Care Assistant completion plan.

Course Listing for this program

Current Course Offerings