Delivery Method: In-class
Duration: 39 weeks (27 weeks for direct entry), including 8 weeks of practicum
Paid Co-op (Optional): 10 weeks
Start: February, May, and September
Wages: $22.80-$25.33/hour
Recognized By: BC Care Aide Community Health Worker Registry
Info Sessions: Click here to view upcoming info sessions
Tuition: Click here

About the Career

As a Health Care Assistant (HCA), you will be the primary caregiver, helping elderly individuals maintain a level of independence and improving their quality of life. After graduating from our 27-week Health Care Assistant diploma program, you will find employment in:

  • Hospitals and community agencies
  • Residential, extended and intermediate care facilities
  • Home support agencies
  • Adult care centre for seniors
  • Assisted living residences

Upon graduation, you will be registered with the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry, allowing you to work in publicly funded health care settings in B.C.

Health Care Assistant

About the Health Care Assistant Program

Our HCA program follows the government-developed curriculum, and is recognized by the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry. Incorporating theory and hands-on training in a high-fidelity simulation lab, this six-month program prepares you to support older adults in independent, assisted, extended and palliative care. Becoming an HCA is an excellent opportunity for internationally educated healthcare professionals seeking a career that utilizes their previous education and expertise. You will receive a comprehensive orientation to the Canadian healthcare system. 

For some, this will be a career for life. Others may decide to further their careers and become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) through our LPN diploma program. 

The Health Care Assistant program delivered by Stenberg College is recognized by the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry. 

Graduates of the Health Care Assistant program delivered by Stenberg College are eligible for registration with the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry. 

Cooperative Work Experience 

You will have the option to add a 10-week paid co-op to your program. 

Admission Requirements

Pre-requisites:

  • Grade 12 graduation or 19 years of age
  • Passing Stenberg College entrance interview
  • Passing English Language Competency Requirements as per the BC Care Aide Registry
  • Standardized English language proficiency test score (for applicants whose first language is not English)

Language Proficiency Requirements:

Health Care Assistant diploma

  • Overall IELTS Test score* of 5.5 with no component less than 5.5 for Speaking and Listening, 5.5 for Reading and Writing (or other ESL equivalencies as determined by Stenberg).
  • Advanced Entry: Overall IELTS Test score* of 6.0 with no component less than 6.0 for Speaking and Listening, 5.5 for Reading and Writing (or other ESL equivalencies as determined by Stenberg).

*Must be within the last 2 years.

Program Courses

Post-Graduation Pathways

Our Faculty

Accreditation and Recognition

Stenberg College is designated by the BC government’s Ministry of Advanced Education through the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB). PTIB is responsible for setting standards of quality and ensuring consumer protection. Stenberg College has also received the BC government’s Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, which is BC’s brand or “seal” of quality post-secondary education for public and private institutions. This program is also approved by the Registrar. 

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