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Child and Youth Care - Accelerated

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Program Code: CY321
CIP Code: 44.0702
PGWP Eligible: N/A
Credential: Advanced Diploma
Start Dates: September
Program Length: 4 semesters
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Pathways: Explore Pathways
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Program Overview

Not all children and youth receive the same opportunities and resources to succeed in life. In a world where inequities still exist, Humber’s Child and Youth Care – Accelerated advanced diploma program prepares you to promote the optimal development of children, youth and their families through a holistic lens. You will develop skills in advocacy, assessing needs, designing and implementing programs, and creating therapeutic environments. You will learn how to use daily life events and intervention plans to support and facilitate positive change. The program provides foundational knowledge in infant, child and adolescent development; child and youth care relational practice principles; family dynamics; evidence-based or evidence-informed intervention strategies; group dynamics; mental health and wellness; cultural humility; interviewing and counselling; and therapeutic activities.

You will learn that an essential component of professional practice is self-awareness with many courses emphasizing self-reflection and the classroom being a professional practice environment. Your high energy level and emotional maturity will help you meet the demands of working with children and youth with complex needs. 

Our program is accredited by the Child and Youth Care Education and Accreditation Board of Canada and is delivered by award-winning faculty renowned in their field with current, relevant experience and advanced degrees.  A key feature of the program is our therapeutic play lab fostering experiential learning. 

Our accelerated program makes it possible for students with previous post-secondary education (an undergraduate degree or college diploma) to fast-track through our program in 16 consecutive months without compromising experience through three field experiences. The accelerated program is a great opportunity for students who are looking to network and build a career focused on supporting young people. Studies begin in September with graduation projected for December of the following academic year.

Work-Integrated Learning  

is a critical component of this program, and there is an exciting variety of innovative and traditional field experiences available in and around the Greater Toronto Area. Field experiences are arranged with the help of a field advisor and are typically unpaid. Students will experience a range of opportunities to work with our community partners serving children, youth and families. First and third field experience courses are three days a week, and the second is four days a week through the summer. Alongside this experiential work, students will also complete coursework and attend a seminar class.

Take a Tour of Our Sim Labs

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Student dusting bottle for fingerprints

Student using the driving simulator

Students in the Therapeutic Play Lab

View All of Our Learning Labs 

Advisory Committee

Our advisory committee is made up of people with extensive experience in the child and youth care profession and represent a variety of settings in which child and youth care practitioners are employed. Many are also members of the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care.

Recorded Information Sessions

Watch our recorded information sessions to learn more about the program and how it can boost your career.

Who is the program for?

Who is the Program for?

Learn more about the Accelerated Child and Youth Care program and if it's right for you.

About the courses

About the Courses

Program co-ordinator Kelly Cassano discusses the courses and learning outcomes.

Work-integrated learning

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning opportunities are a great way for students to practice their skills hands-on in the field.

Program pathways

Program Pathways

There are multiple careers and pathways available upon graduation.

Alumni Testimonials

Sophia Chan headshot

Sophia Chan

Since graduating, Sophia's career has been fulfilling and impactful, as she has had the privilege of working in various mental health and community settings. Read More
Erin Gilmer headshot

Erin Gilmer

Erin currently works as a Case Manager at Carpe Diem Foster Homes, the foster agency where she completed her 2nd semester placement during her time at Humber. Read More
Anthony Petrini headshot

Anthony Petrini

Anthony has grown his career through a variety of roles after graduation and credits his success to the foundational skills he gained at Humber. Read More
Cin Lam headshot

Cin Lam

Cin now works on a school board as a Child and Youth Care Practitioner (CYCP), and she also pursues a Master's degree. Read More
Coleen McDonald headshot

Coleen McDonald

Coleen felt like Humber was a home away from home as she navigated her post-secondary journey as an international student. Read More
Kassandra Moutinho

Kassandra Moutinho

Since graduating, Kassandra has been able to see how our world as CYCPs is valued within different atmospheres. Read More

Study Abroad

Students can collaborate with their field advisor to create a field experience opportunity abroad. There are additional costs to engage in these opportunities. Students should also consult with their program co-ordinator prior to setting up a study abroad experience to explore any changes to their academic pathway. 

Your Career

With our program, you can enjoy the rewards of a career where you make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth.

Our graduates have employment opportunities in a variety of settings including:

  • child protection agencies
  • community-based child and youth development programs
  • early intervention and prevention programs
  • hospitals and clinical settings
  • open custody group homes for youth involved in the criminal justice system
  • parent education and family support programs
  • residential and day treatment programs in children's mental health centres
  • school-based programs and school boards
  • youth and women's shelters

Professional Accreditations & Recognition

Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care (OACYC)

This program is recognized by the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care (OACYC) . Graduates may apply to become members of the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care. 

Child and Youth Care Certification Board (CYCCB)

Graduates may apply to be certified by the Child and Youth Care Certification Board (North America). Additional requirements and/or costs may apply.

Additional requirements may apply.

Note: The requirements for the additional credential(s) are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.

Related Programs

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Child and Youth Care, Bachelor of

Credential: Honours Degree
Length: 8 semesters
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Browse All Related Programs 

Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Course-Based Lakeshore Open
Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Course-Based Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly funded institution. International students graduating from a PGWP Eligible program at Humber are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International students in Canada could be eligible for an automatic scholarship*.  Apply now!

Check out the step-by-step Admissions Road Map for helpful information and additional resources.

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Course-Based Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly funded institution. International students graduating from a PGWP Eligible program at Humber are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International applicants outside of Canada can apply through Humber International. Check out the step-by-step Admissions Road Map for helpful information and additional resources.

Upcoming Recruitment Events

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber Polytechnic reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

GET YOUR $125 APPLICATION FEE BACK*

Apply On Us This September!

Apply through OCAS between June 14 - July 19, 2024 and be registered full-time on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 and receive a $125 credit equal to the domestic application fee.

To qualify, get started by filling out the APPLY ON US form.

*This promotion is open to domestic applications for the September 2024 program intakes only. Offer not valid for existing applicants or applications.

International Students with a valid Study Permit or Letter of Introduction (LOI)* can receive a Waiver Code to cover the $100 September 2024 application fee.

Bringing You Our A-Game

A Humber education is second to none, benefit from:

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How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by July 15, 2024 to receive your Application Fee Credit. Applications for September will remain open as long as the program availability status shows Open.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Kelly Cassano, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622
kelly.cassano@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following three requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • A bachelor's degree, advanced diploma or diploma

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Placement Requirements

The following will be required when applying to prospective internships during the program:

  • Valid Standard First Aid with CPR-C and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Documentation will be requested during your program of study, prior to the first internship in Semester 2 of the program.
  • Medical Certificate of Health including immunization against Hepatitis B (prior to field placement component of the program); medical forms will be available to students to complete one semester prior to work placement.
  • Community partners who provide field placement opportunities will require students to undergo a vulnerable sector check for criminal offences. It is important for potential students to understand that this requirement is beyond the control of Humber. Students must meet the screening criteria of work placement agencies. A student with a record may not be approved to work by the agencies, and this may prevent students from completing the work placement component necessary to fulfill the requirements of the diploma. Applicants who have a criminal record are encouraged to apply for a pardon, if eligible, prior to or upon admission to the program.

Note: A vulnerable sector check will typically be applied for one month prior to work placement, as there is a 90-day limit on validity of vulnerable sector checks. Faculty will support students upon arrival to the program to ensure they apply for documentation at the appropriate time.

Equipment & Device Requirements

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for three semesters was:

  • domestic: $6,039.86
  • international: $26,446.07

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Additional Costs

$300 – $400 textbooks and supplies; $130 crisis intervention training fees; $30 – $50 per semester for a vulnerable sector check (requested by community partners)

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Transfer Out Opportunities From This Program  
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