No prior experience is required. The program includes practicum placements where you'll gain hands-on training.
Help shape brighter futures for children, youth, and families. The Child and Youth Care (CYC) Diploma Program at Keyano College equips you with practical skills and professional insight to work with vulnerable young people in a variety of care settings.
Through a trauma-informed, strength-based, and culturally aware approach, you’ll learn to support individuals navigating mental health challenges, addiction, family breakdown, and systemic barriers. With three field placements built into the program, you'll graduate with real-world experience and the confidence to step into this impactful career.
What You’ll Learn
Students of this program will develop critical skills in:
- Therapeutic communication and relationship building
- Crisis intervention and behavioural support
- Mental health and addictions
- Counselling techniques and group work
- Youth justice processes and ethical practice
- Family systems and cultural competency
Career Opportunities
- Child and Youth Care Worker
- Behavioural Support Specialist
- Family Support Worker
- School-Based Intervention Staff
- Youth Justice Caseworker
- Group Home or Treatment Centre Support Worker
Admission Requirements
General Admission:
- Alberta High School Diploma (or equivalent)
- English 30-1 (minimum 50%) or English 30-2 (minimum 65%)
Mature Students (21+):
- English 30-1 (minimum 50%) or English 30-2 (minimum 65%)
English Language Proficiency
- TOEFL iBT: 86+ (no section below 21)
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no section below 5.0)
- CAEL: 70 | MELAB: 85 | Duolingo: 110 | PTE (Academic): 58
Pre-Practicum Requirements
Before beginning any practicum, students must submit:
- Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector (no older than 6 weeks)
- Alberta Child Intervention Record Check
- Standard First Aid with CPR/AED
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Students: $5,440/year
International Students: $14,406/year
Tuition is subject to change. Additional fees may apply.
Payment is due 10 business days before the start of term.
Sample Program Structure
Year 1
Term 1
- ENGL 100: Written Composition
- PSYCH 104 (or approved junior psychology)
- CYC 100: Intro to Child & Youth Care
- CHSD 101: Child Development I
- CYC 101: Child & Youth Methodology
Year 1
Term 2
- CYC 102: Introduction to Treatment
- ELCC 330: Ecology of the Family
- CYC 103: Diversity in Practice
- CYC 104: Therapeutic Activities
- CYC 120: Practicum I (240-hour placement)
Year 2
Term 1
- CYC 200: Youth Justice
- CYC 201: Counselling & Evaluation
- CYC 202: Mental Health & Addiction
- CHSD 201: Child Development II
- CYC 220: Practicum II (240-hour placement)
Year 2
Term 2
- CYC 203: Family Violence & Trauma
- CYC 204: Ethics & Crisis Intervention
- CYC 205: Group Work
- NATST 201: Indigenous Perspectives in Helping
- CYC 221: Practicum III (240-hour placement)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need work experience before applying?
Can I work while enrolled in the program?
This is a full-time program. While some students work part-time, we recommend keeping a light schedule during practicum terms.
Are there mental health or trauma-specific courses?
Yes. You'll take courses in Mental Health & Addiction, Family Violence & Trauma, and Counselling & Evaluation.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Take the next step toward a meaningful career in child and youth care.
Contact us today to learn more or begin your application.
Email: Human.Services@keyano.ca
Call: 780-791-4801
Next Intake: Fall 2025