Many young people experience neglect, abuse, emotional distress and/or family breakdowns. Through mentorship, role-modeling and positive reinforcement, the child and youth care worker can help young people and their families overcome these emotional and behavioural problems. Accepting children and youth as they are and not how we wish them to be, and understanding the difference between being a rescuer and a caring professional are key attributes of the child and youth care worker.The Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program provides you with the foundational skills required to work in a professional environment with high-risk youth and families. Specialized child and youth care courses and courses in disciplines such as the humanities and social sciences prepare you to become a well-rounded child and youth care professional, ready to offer guidance, support, concern and encouragement to troubled children, youth and their families.
Field of study: Human Development and Family Studies, General
The Child and Youth Care program at MacEwan University is designed to prepare students for meaningful work supporting children, adolescents, and their families in diverse settings. This comprehensive program blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to promote positive development and well-being among youth. Students will explore foundational topics such as child development, family dynamics, and community systems, gaining a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and psychological factors that influence youth behavior and growth. The curriculum emphasizes culturally responsive practices, trauma-informed care, and ethical decision-making, ensuring future practitioners are equipped to serve diverse populations with sensitivity and professionalism.
Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on learning through practicum placements in community agencies, schools, and social service organizations. These fieldwork opportunities allow students to apply classroom theories in real-world contexts, develop professional skills, and build networks within the child and youth care field. The program also incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from psychology, social work, education, and health sciences to foster well-rounded, competent practitioners. Additionally, students learn about advocacy, program planning, crisis intervention, and collaborative teamwork, all essential components for effective child and youth care work.
Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program are prepared for employment in various settings, including residential treatment centers, youth outreach programs, schools, and community service agencies. They are equipped to support vulnerable youth through mentorship, counseling, and intervention strategies that promote resilience and positive development. With a commitment to ethical practice and continuous learning, graduates are positioned to contribute positively to the lives of children and youth, advocating for their needs and supporting their journey toward successful adulthood. The program's blend of academic coursework, practical experience, and professional development ensures students are well-prepared to meet the dynamic challenges of the child and youth care field upon graduation.
Program Requirements for Child and Youth Care at MacEwan University:
The Bachelor of Child and Youth Care (BCYC) program at MacEwan University prepares students to work effectively with children, youth, and families in a variety of settings. To successfully complete this program, students must fulfill a combination of academic, practical, and professional development requirements. Firstly, students are required to complete a total of 120 credit hours, which typically span four years of full-time study. The curriculum includes foundational courses in child development, family dynamics, ethical practices, and communication skills, as well as specialized courses in trauma-informed care, mental health interventions, and cultural competence. Practical experience is an integral component of the program; students must complete a minimum of 600 hours of field placements in approved community agencies, schools, or healthcare settings. These placements provide hands-on experience working directly with children and youth under supervision, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Additionally, students must demonstrate competency in applicable professional standards, including confidentiality, safety protocols, and ethical decision-making. The program also requires students to participate in seminars, workshops, and reflective practice sessions to foster ongoing professional development and cultural awareness. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA as specified by the program, complete all coursework, and fulfill the field placement requirements. Furthermore, students are encouraged to engage in community service projects and research activities relevant to child and youth care. Upon successful completion, graduates are prepared for employment opportunities in residential care, community outreach, mental health services, and other related fields, or for further graduate studies. Overall, the program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates academic learning with practical skills and ethical practice to develop competent professionals equipped to support children and youth in diverse environments.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
The Child and Youth Care program at MacEwan University offers various financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Students enrolled in this program can benefit from a combination of government financial aid, scholarships, bursaries, and potential work opportunities. Government financial assistance such as Canada Student Loans and Alberta Student Loans are available to eligible students, providing essential funding to cover tuition fees, textbooks, and living expenses. MacEwan University also provides internal scholarships specifically tailored for students in health and human services programs, including Child and Youth Care. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, financial need, and community involvement, encouraging excellence and dedication among students. Bursaries are also available for those demonstrating financial hardship, ensuring that talented students are not deterred by financial barriers. Furthermore, students are encouraged to explore part-time work opportunities on campus, including positions related to their field of study, which can help offset living costs and gain relevant experience. The university’s financial aid office provides personalized advice and assistance to help students understand their options and complete necessary applications. Additionally, students are advised to seek external funding sources, such as community organizations and industry-specific awards, which may offer additional financial support. The program's structure and duration make it accessible for both full-time and part-time students, allowing flexible scheduling that can accommodate employment or family commitments, thereby making financing options more manageable. MacEwan University also offers payment plans to spread out tuition payments over the semester or year, reducing immediate financial burdens. Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and financial aid to maximize their chances of receiving support. Overall, the combination of government aid, university scholarships, bursaries, work opportunities, and flexible payment options ensures that students enrolled in the Child and Youth Care program have a strong foundation of financial support, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.
The Child and Youth Care program at MacEwan University is designed to prepare students for meaningful work with children, youth, and their families in a variety of settings. This undergraduate program emphasizes the development of practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and ethical understanding necessary to promote positive development and well-being among young people. Throughout the program, students engage with coursework that covers developmental psychology, family dynamics, community resources, and intervention strategies, equipping them to work effectively in environments such as schools, community agencies, and healthcare facilities. The curriculum integrates classroom learning with practical experience through supervised field placements, providing students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
The program emphasizes a holistic approach to child and youth development, recognizing the importance of cultural competence, diversity, and inclusion. Students are encouraged to develop strong communication, problem-solving, and collaborating skills, essential for working with complex cases involving mental health issues, behavioral challenges, or family crises. Faculty members are experienced professionals in the field of child and youth care, and they utilize a combination of lectures, seminars, hands-on activities, and reflection to foster an engaging learning environment.
Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to pursue careers as youth workers, case managers, group home staff, or in other related roles. They can also continue their education through advanced degrees in social work, counseling, or related fields. The program's accreditation and adherence to professional standards ensure graduates meet industry requirements and are ready to make a positive impact in their communities. MacEwan University's Child and Youth Care program reflects the university's commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and promoting healthy development across diverse populations.
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