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Human Services Educational Assistant / Community Support Certificate

Grad cap icon Certificate
icon Priority admission for Indigenous students 
icon International applicants welcome - PGWP eligible | CIP code 44.0000

This is an academic credit program offered through the Faculty of Health and Human Services.

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Location

Length

Delivery
Comox Valley
Fall 		1 year In-person
Full-time

Applications open.

Overview

NIC's Human Services department offers high-quality, transferable programs within a provincial network. This three-term program emphasizes anti-oppressive, feminist frameworks, communication and critical thinking.

You'll learn:
  • First term: covers social issues, ethics, human development and research skills.
  • Second term: focuses on lifespan development, behavior support strategies and supervised placements with weekly seminars.
  • Third term: six weeks of full-time supervised practice in schools or community agencies for skill application and professional connections.

Apply now

Requirements and courses

Practicum

Practicum opportunities are an important component of the program, allowing you to integrate theory with practical experience in the community. They are in in various community-based settings, including group homes, women’s shelters, mental health centers and other organizations. 

You must arrange your own transportation and assume related costs. 

Careers

As a graduate, you could work as an education assistant, supporting classrooms in schools or other public sectors. As a community support worker, you could assist individuals with special needs through agencies or even start your own business to support those with developmental or physical disabilities.

$56,311*

Annual median estimated earnings for elementary and secondary school teacher assistants in BC.

Career profile
*based on WorkBC data

Costs

Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.

Curious about funding?

Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

Start by identifying your interests, career goals, and strengths. Explore the programs offered by the college, including course details, career outcomes and admission requirements. You can also speak with an academic advisor for guidance. 

Yes, the program can be taken full-time or part-time, providing flexibility for work while studying. 

Graduates can work in various settings, including school districts, group homes, employment agencies, and community organizations. There are also transfer opportunities to Bachelor’s degrees in social work, education, and child/youth programs. 

What do I need to do before classes begin? 
  1. Attend a mandatory group information session.
  2. Hold a valid Standard First Aid Certification with CPR Level C.
  3. Submit a Criminal Record Check Permission form.
  4. Complete and submit a Personal Immunization form, validated by a public health nurse. 

Yes, the program can be completed part-time, with a limited number of seats available each year. Part-time students must complete the program within seven years. 

Students admitted full-time cannot switch to part-time once accepted. If a full-time student wishes to switch to part-time, they must reapply to the program as a part-time student. 

You can choose a general certificate or one with an Indigenous focus, which helps you integrate Indigenous culture and curriculum through intercultural skills. Both prepare you for roles in schools, group homes, employment agencies and community organizations, with hands-on experience through practicums.
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