Child and Youth Care

Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers supporting the well-being and development of children, youth, and their families. This program emphasizes a holistic, strengths-based approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills essential for working effectively in diverse community settings. Students will explore foundational topics such as child development, family dynamics, mental health, and social justice, gaining a deep understanding of the factors influencing youth and family systems. Through hands-on practicum placements and community engagement, learners will have opportunities to apply their learning in real-world contexts, developing competencies in advocacy, crisis intervention, case management, and program planning. The curriculum integrates interdisciplinary perspectives from psychology, social work, education, and health sciences to prepare graduates for a broad range of roles within child and youth service agencies, schools, juvenile justice systems, and community organizations. The program also emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and collaborative teamwork, fostering qualities vital for effective intervention and support. Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program at Ryerson are equipped to make a positive impact on young people's lives while pursuing continued education or professional certifications in related fields. The program aims to develop reflective practitioners who are committed to social justice, lifelong learning, and the empowerment of children and youth in diverse settings.

The Child and Youth Care program at Ryerson University is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and impactful career working with children, youth, and their families in a variety of settings. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills to empower future professionals to support the well-being, development, and emotional health of young people. Throughout the program, students will explore core topics such as child development, youth engagement, mental health, trauma-informed care, family dynamics, and community resources. The curriculum combines coursework, field placements, and experiential learning opportunities to foster a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children and youth in diverse environments.

Students will learn essential skills in communication, assessment, intervention, and program planning, enabling them to work effectively with individuals, families, and communities. The program also emphasizes cultural competence, ethics, and the importance of advocacy in child and youth services. Practical experience is integrated into the program through supervised fieldwork placements in various settings such as schools, community organizations, residential facilities, and healthcare environments. This hands-on approach prepares graduates to confidently address real-world issues and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. The Child and Youth Care program at Ryerson University aims to develop compassionate, competent, and innovative practitioners dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of young people. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in social services, education, health care, and community development, with the flexibility to adapt to diverse roles and settings throughout their professional journey.

Program Requirements for Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University include the successful completion of a minimum of 120 credit hours, which encompasses foundational coursework, specialized courses, and practical training components. Students must first complete the University-wide general education requirements to ensure a well-rounded academic background. The program emphasizes core courses such as Child and Youth Development, Ethics and Professional Practice, and Family and Community Dynamics, which are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing child and youth wellbeing. In addition to theoretical coursework, students are required to participate in practicum placements that offer hands-on experience in real-world settings such as youth shelters, community centers, and educational institutions. These practicum experiences are supervised by qualified professionals and are integral to developing practical skills and applying theoretical knowledge. The curriculum also includes courses in Communication, Diversity and Inclusion, and Crisis Intervention, equipping students with essential skills for effective engagement and intervention strategies. Students must maintain a minimum GPA as specified by the program policies to progress through each year of study and are expected to adhere to the profession’s ethical standards. Furthermore, students are encouraged to engage in research projects or community service initiatives that enhance their learning and contribution to the field. In the final year, students undertake a capstone project that demonstrates their comprehensive understanding of Child and Youth Care principles and practices. Certain courses may have prerequisites or co-requisites, and practical placements require a vulnerable sector police record check, medical clearance, and immunizations to ensure safety and suitability for working with children and youth. The program also provides opportunities for specialization in areas such as Indigenous Child and Youth Care, Mental Health, or Special Needs, depending on student interest and program accreditation.

The Child and Youth Care program at Ryerson University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for this program are structured according to undergraduate fee schedules, which vary depending on whether the student is domestic or international. Domestic students benefit from competitive tuition rates set by Ontario’s Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, while international students pay higher fees reflecting the global demand for this specialized educational pathway. In addition to tuition fees, students should anticipate costs related to textbooks, supplies, and potential field placement requirements, which may include transportation and safety equipment.

Financial aid opportunities are available through several channels. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) provides need-based loans and grants to eligible Ontario residents, helping to offset the cost of education and living expenses. Ryerson University also offers a range of internal bursaries and scholarships designed specifically for students in health sciences and social services disciplines, including Child and Youth Care students. These awards are often based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, or a combination of these factors. Students are encouraged to apply early and complete all necessary documentation to maximize their chances of receiving financial support.

Additionally, many students secure funding through external scholarships offered by government agencies, charitable organizations, and professional associations related to social work and youth services. Work-study programs and on-campus employment opportunities are also available, allowing students to gain valuable experience while earning an income. Some students choose to participate in co-op placements, which, in some cases, include stipends or wages that help to reduce overall financial burdens. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive advising and resources to help students navigate eligibility requirements and application procedures.

For students planning to fund their studies through loans, it is important to consider the long-term implications of debt and to explore all available options before committing to financing strategies. The program’s affordability is further enhanced by the possibility of part-time enrollment, which allows students to balance coursework with employment commitments. International students are advised to research scholarship opportunities specific to their country of residence and consider external funding sources. Overall, Ryerson University is committed to making Child and Youth Care education accessible and affordable, recognizing that sustainable financing options are vital for student success and completion of the program.

Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in supporting and advocating for children, youth, families, and communities. This program emphasizes understanding the developmental, social, and emotional needs of young people, as well as acquiring practical skills necessary to intervene effectively in complex situations. Students will engage with courses covering topics such as child and youth development, mental health, trauma-informed care, family dynamics, social justice, and community engagement. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with experiential learning opportunities, including field placements and community projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates of the program are equipped to work in diverse environments such as schools, youth centers, social service agencies, child welfare organizations, and healthcare institutions. The program fosters a compassionate, ethical, and culturally competent approach to working with vulnerable populations, ensuring that graduates are prepared to advocate for positive change and support positive outcomes for children and youth. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and culturally sensitive practices, the Child and Youth Care program at Ryerson aims to develop professionals who are capable of making meaningful contributions to society by empowering young people and strengthening their communities. The program's faculty consists of experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to innovative teaching and research in the field of child and youth care. Overall, the program offers a rigorous academic experience complemented by practical training, positioning graduates to meet the evolving needs of children and families in diverse settings.