Yes, the program is based on Alberta’s provincial HCA curriculum and qualifies graduates to write the provincial HCA exam.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, every single day, Keyano College’s Health Care Aide (HCA) Certificate will prepare you to become a trusted frontline care provider. You’ll learn how to support individuals with complex health needs, whether you're caring for seniors, working in acute care, or providing support at home.
This hands-on, provincially approved program includes classroom learning, lab simulations, and three clinical placements. Upon graduation, you'll be eligible to write the provincial HCA exam, now required for employment in continuing care in Alberta.
Note: The role of HCAs is evolving and will soon be regulated by the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA).
What You’ll Learn
Through classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and real-world clinical placements, you’ll develop the practical skills and knowledge needed to provide safe, compassionate, and person-centred care.
- Person-centred care and comfort strategies
- Communication and documentation in healthcare environments
- Safe support with mobility, personal hygiene, and nutrition
- Chronic and complex illness care
- Dementia, mental health, and palliative support
- Alberta Health Services (AHS) protocols and safety procedures
Career Opportunities
Health care aides are in high demand across Alberta.
Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including:
- Long-term care and assisted living facilities
- Acute care hospitals and health centres
- Home care and community support organizations
- Hospice and palliative care units
Admission Requirements
Academic
One of the following is required:
- English 20-2 or 20-1 with a minimum 60%
- English 30-1 or 30-2 with a minimum 55%
- OR equivalent score on the ACCUPLACER assessment
Clinical (After Admission)
- Current Heart & Stroke BLS certification
- Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
- Immunization record
- Completion of WHMIS and AHS orientation modules
- N95 mask fit testing
English Language Proficiency (if applicable)
Test scores must be dated within 2 years:
- IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall (min. 5.5 per band)
- TOEFL iBT: 71
- Duolingo: 95
- PTE Academic: 50
- CELPIP General: 7 overall (min. 6 per section)
- CLB: 7 in all 4 skills
You may also qualify via Canadian high school or post-secondary studies in English.
Digital Literacy
Students should be able to:
- Communicate and research online
- Use email and web-based platforms
- Navigate digital learning systems
- Create and evaluate online content
Tuition & Fees Please refer to the Keyano College Credit Calendar for current tuition and fees. Fees are subject to change pending Government of Alberta approval.
Tuition and Fees
Eligible students may receive up to $9,000 in government bursaries:
Estimated Domestic Student Cost
- 2024–25 Total: $8,364.84
- 2025–26 Total: $8,530.00 (Pending Approval)
Estimated International Student Cost
- 2024–25 Total: $23,208.00
- 2025–26 Total: $23,670.00 (Pending Approval)
Fees include tuition, mandatory student services, and health benefits. Lab fees range from $34 to $135.
Tuition Bursaries
Eligible students may receive up to $9,000 in government bursaries:
Health Care Aide Tuition Bursary
(via NorQuest College)
- $3,000 after completing courses 1–5
- $6,000 upon graduation + signing a Return to Service Agreement
Financial Incentive Program
$2,000–$4,000 for students who graduated or enrolled between Jan 1–June 30, 2022
Amount based on post-graduation employment site
First-come, first-served basis
Eligible students may qualify for up to $9,000 in tuition bursaries through the Alberta government’s Health Care Aide financial support programs:
Program Structure
Term I
- HCA 120: Health Care Aide Role & Responsibility (3 credits)
- HCA 121: The Human Body, Health & Chronic Illness (3 credits)
- HCA 122: Communication & Documentation (4 credits)
- HCA 123: Person-Centred Care & Comfort (5 credits)
- HCA 124: Clinical Placement I (3 credits)
Term II
- HCA 125: Meeting Complex Care Needs (5 credits)
- HCA 126: Special Activities for Various Conditions (5 credits)
- HCA 127: Clinical Placement II (5 credits)
- HCA 128: Consolidated Clinical Placement (3 credits)
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a two-term (approximately 8-month) certificate program, including multiple clinical placements.
Do I need experience in healthcare to apply?
No prior experience is required. This program is designed for new learners looking to enter the healthcare field.
Can I apply without English 30?
Yes, you can qualify with English 20-1 or 20-2 or by taking the ACCUPLACER test to demonstrate readiness.
Are there jobs in Fort McMurray, Alberta after graduation?
Yes. Health care aides are in high demand locally and across Alberta, especially in long-term care, home care, and hospital settings.
Is there a part-time or evening option?
Currently, the Health Care Aide Program is offered in full-time daytime format only.
Where can I get help with my application?
You can reach the Nursing & Health Programs team at nursing@keyano.ca for personalized support.
The departments are eager to welcome you to the College, read the Welcome Letter for your program below:
Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Healthcare Career.
Apply today to join Keyano College’s Health Care Aide Certificate program and become a vital part of Alberta’s care system.
Questions? Email nursing@keyano.ca - we’re here to help.