Health Care Assistant

Graduates of the HCA Program at Capilano University are succeeding in getting jobs right after graduation, many being hired by the facilities where the students completed parts of their practicum.

The demand for Caregivers in health settings and with clients at home in BC has never been greater! The potential for employment is extremely good. Graduates of our full-time, certificate program are respected as well trained caregivers by employers throughout BC.

The role of the health care assistant is to assist people, especially older adults, who require basic nursing care. Whether you choose to work within a health care team in care facilities or independently within the community, you will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills here at Capilano University, to excel as a health care provider.

Experienced health care professionals teach the lab skills and classroom courses. Clinical placements will take place in a variety of health care settings under the direct supervision of our faculty.

For people wishing to continue their education in the health care field, graduates of the program have continued onto both Licenced Practical Nursing (LPN) and Registered Nursing (RN) programs.

The Health Care Assistant program is a 745 hour certificate program recognized throughout BC. Graduates of the program are qualified to work in any level of continuing care, including home support, adult day-care, assisted living, and complex care (including special care units).

The program integrates health care theory with approximately 270 hours of practice in actual care settings. Students learn the basics in providing person-centered care aimed at promoting and maintaining the physical, emotional, cognitive, social and spiritual well-being of clients/residents. Clinical experiences take place in a variety of continuing care facilities as well as home support agencies and/or assisted living sites.

Up to 2 programs may be offered each year in North Vancouver and on the regional campuses.  Current offerings will be posted on this website.

The number of people needing continuing health care, home care and support in assisted living in our community is increasing, and there is an ever-growing demand for qualified men and women to work full-time or part-time or as a casual care provider in this field.

Graduates of this program are qualified to work with clients/residents in any level of continuing care, including home support, adult day-care, assisted living, and complex care (including special care units). The potential for employment is excellent. Employers require a criminal record check and ask applicants to complete an English placement test.

top