Course Delivery: In-class
Duration: 27 weeks, including 8 weeks of practicum
Start: February, May, and September
Wages: Up to $28.74/hr in health authorities
Recognized By: BC Care Aide Community Health Worker Registry
Student Diversity:
Stenberg supports diversity in our student population, and we hold one seat per program for a self-identified Indigenous applicant who meets admission requirements. If the seat remains unfilled at 12 weeks prior to the program start, the seat will be released and offered to other qualified applicants.

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 Diploma Program

About the Health Care Assistant Program

Our Health Care Assistant (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 nine-month program prepares you to support older adults in independent, assisted, extended and palliative care.

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.

Admission Requirements

Pre-requisites:

  • Grade 12 graduation or 19 years of age
  • Passing English language competency requirements*
    or English 10 or equivalent (for native speakers of English)**
  • Acceptable Criminal Record Review with Vulnerable Sector Check by the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

*Entrance requirements can be met with evidence of alternate assessments such as challenge exams, or acceptable standardized English equivalency tests as per the Stenberg College language proficiency chart. Evidence of post-secondary studies at an equivalent level where English was the first language is acceptable.

** English language competency requirements met as per the BC Care Aide Registry for Non-Native English Speakers

Program Courses

Student Support

  • Academic tutoring
  • Assessment and skill development support
  • Open study skills tutorials
  • Typing practice support
  • One-on-one student support coaching sessions
  • English language learning support
  • Online learning resources
  • Online academic journals and databases
  • Campus life events

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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