Child and Youth Care Program (Accelerated) (C153)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Child and Youth Care
  • Code: C153
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Advanced Diploma
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    12 consecutive months
  • Centre:
  • School: Social & Community Services
  • Location: St. James Campus
  • Starting Months: May
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $3,717.00 *
  • International Tuition:
    $16,708.00 **
  • Experiential Learning:

    Field Placement (unpaid)

  • Spring 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 4: Hybrid

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Leadership Claims

This Child and Youth Care program has earned national accreditation from the Child and Youth Care Educational Accreditation Board of Canada, becoming the first of its kind in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area and the third in Canada to do so.

Program Overview

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program, you will have an opportunity to learn how to work effectively with at-risk children, youth and families who are experiencing developmental, mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Apply to this program stream if you have already completed a two- or three-year diploma, or a three- or four-year degree.

PLEASE NOTE: If you apply to the 2022/23 intake for this program, you will start in May 2023. To begin your studies in May 2022, apply to the 2021/22 academic year.

Full Description

In the Child and Youth Care (CYC) (Accelerated) program, you will have the opportunity to learn how to support at-risk children, youth and families by developing therapeutic skills and abilities. Over the course of 12 consecutive months (three semesters), you will learn how to build therapeutic relationships with clients and collaborate with a professional team as you develop skill sets to create a professional identity as an agent of change.

PLEASE NOTE: If you apply to the 2022/23 intake for this program, you will start in May 2023. To begin your studies in May 2022, apply to the 2021/22 academic year.

Scope of practice includes:

  • assessing risk and developmental needs of vulnerable children and families
  • designing and implementing therapeutic intervention
  • crisis intervention and safety planning with children, youth and their families
  • developing therapeutic relationships within challenging contexts
  • applying group and systems theories in physical and social settings
  • fostering resilience and applying a strength-based approach to assessment and intervention

Have questions? Review our most frequently asked questions and answers.

This program starts in May and is delivered over 12 consecutive months (three consecutive semesters).

Students are required to successfully complete a Ministry-approved crisis prevention and intervention training certificate in their third semester.

In preparation for the field or clinical placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups within classes and community settings.

Your Field Education Options

Students gain valuable hands-on experience through two supervised field placement opportunities. The first placement occurs over seven consecutive weeks in the Summer semester and the second occurs over four consecutive months in the Winter semester. Each placement is four days/week.

Field placement opportunities take place in agencies and institutions that offer services to the community within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The CYC program also offers international placement experiences when possible. 

Typical placement sites include:

  • group homes
  • educational settings
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • schools
  • after-school programs
  • community outreach programs
  • youth justice

Students are expected to work both day and evening shifts (not overnight), and may be requested to work on some weekends.

Students are able to apply for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for one field placement.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Develop and maintain relationships with children, youth and their families applying principles of relational practice and respecting their unique life space, cultural and human diversity.
  2. Assess and respond to the strengths and needs of children and youth, including complex responses impacted by developmental, environmental, physical, emotional, social and mental health challenges in order to promote positive change.
  3. Analyze and evaluate the impact of the inter-relationship among family, social service, justice and community systems on children, youth and their families and use this information in the planning of holistic care and in the reduction of systemic barriers.
  4. Plan, implement and evaluate interventions using evidence‐informed practices in the areas of therapeutic milieu and programming, and group work to promote resiliency and to enhance development in children, youth and their families.
  5. Advocate for the rights of children, youth and their families and maintain an anti-oppression perspective and cultural competence in diverse cultural contexts.
  6. Apply communication, teamwork and organizational skills within the interprofessional team and with community partners to enhance the quality of service in child and youth care practice.
  7. Develop and implement self-care strategies using self-inquiry and reflection processes to promote self-awareness and to enhance practice as a child and youth care practitioner.
  8. Use evidence-based research, professional development resources and supervision models to support professional growth and lifelong learning.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 4: May – August

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1048Therapeutic Activities
CYCS 1049Counselling Children and Youth
CYCS 1057Child and Adolescent Development
CYCS 2038Field Practice I
CYCS 2039Fieldwork Seminar I
CYCS 2042Human Sexuality
CYCS 2047Introduction to Child and Youth Care and Legislation

SEMESTER 5: September – December

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1050Group Work with Adolescents
CYCS 1055Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppressive Practices
CYCS 2026Trauma Informed Approaches
CYCS 3017Mental Health in Child and Youth Care
CYCS 3020Community Based Practices
BST 2003Crisis Prevention and Intervention

SEMESTER 6: January – April

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 2011Writing for the Profession
CYCS 2035Fieldwork Seminar II
CYCS 3016Working with Families
CYCS 3018Field Practice II

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Career Options

Child and Youth Care graduates are eligible for membership in the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors (OACYC), the professional association representing Child and Youth Care Practitioners in the province of Ontario.

Our graduates find employment in:

  • treatment centres
  • group homes
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • schools
  • after-school programs
  • community-based treatment programs
  • youth justice

Educational Pathways

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program may qualify for advanced standing in other programs at George Brown College. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

Graduates are also eligible to apply for the degree completion program in Child and Youth Care at:

Graduates may also apply for advanced standing in the B.A. Health/Community in the School of Public Health and Social Policy at the University of Victoria, the B.A. Justice Studies, and the B.A. Professional Communication at Royal Roads University.

For further information, see Transfer Guide.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,717.00 *

International Tuition

$16,708.00 **

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.

** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Spring 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Spring 2024 and at later dates.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • Completion of a two-year or three-year diploma, or a three-year or four-year bachelor's degree

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Special Requirements

Clinical Pre-placement health form requirements and program policy

  • Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory requisite health form requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
  • Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records such as (MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titers, Tdap shot valid every 10 years and two-step TB skin test), a clear police vulnerable sector check renewed every year, Standard First Aid certificate renewed every three years and CPR level C renewed every year. These requirements must be submitted by the given deadline to ParaMed.
  • Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and requirements will not be eligible to attend and will be excluded from the field practicum, which may jeopardize your academic standing and ability to graduate in this program.
  • All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
  • To download the mandatory requisite health form, and for more details, go to the Pre-placement website.

Police Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)

  • In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
  • The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
  • Students are responsible for ensuring that the police vulnerable sector check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).”
  • Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
  • Students who are unable to provide a “clear” police vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
  • Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
  • The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Pre-placement website.

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Deyana Sameh, 2018 Graduate

"After working at Cedar Heights Residential Living for just a few months, I was hired as a case manager. I work with youth living with brain based development issues who often have more than one diagnosis.

There is never a dull day at work but I feel confident in the field due to my experience at GBC. I had a good base to start from because of the dedication of faculty in making course content relevant and I can apply lessons learnt to my actual work.

Thank you once again for everything!"

Hayley Pocock, 2016 Graduate

"I really feel that this program prepares you well. You're going to learn what you need to know and I think you're learning it from the right people."

Contact Us

School of Social & Community Services

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2185

Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca.

Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Child  and Youth Care (Accelerated) Program Coordinators:

Judy Masters, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3708, Email: jmasters@georgebrown.ca

Pearl Fernandez, Phone: 416-415-5000 ext. 2980, Email: pearl.fernandez@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

We encourage you to sign up for an information session to learn more about this program, meet your professors and have your questions answered.

Check for upcoming information session dates and times

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Child and Youth Care Program (Accelerated) (C153)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Child and Youth Care
  • Code: C153
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Advanced Diploma
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    12 consecutive months
  • Centre:
  • School: Social & Community Services
  • Location: St. James Campus
  • Starting Months: May
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $3,689.00 *
  • Experiential Learning:

    Field Placement (unpaid)

  • Spring 2022 Delivery:
    Semester 4: Online

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Leadership Claims

This Child and Youth Care program has earned national accreditation from the Child and Youth Care Educational Accreditation Board of Canada, becoming the first of its kind in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area and the third in Canada to do so.

Program Overview

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program, you will have an opportunity to learn how to work effectively with at-risk children, youth and families who are experiencing developmental, mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Apply to this program stream if you have already completed a two- or three-year diploma, or a three- or four-year degree.

PLEASE NOTE: The 2021/22 Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program runs from May 2022 through April 2023 for 12 consecutive months.

Full Description

PLEASE NOTE: The 2021/22 Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program runs from May 2022 through April 2023 for 12 consecutive months.

In the Child and Youth Care (CYC)(Accelerated) program, you will have the opportunity to learn how to support at-risk children, youth and families by developing therapeutic skills and abilities. Over the course of 12 consecutive months (three semesters), you will learn how to build therapeutic relationships with clients and collaborate with a professional team as you develop skill sets to create a professional identity as an agent of change.

Scope of practice includes:

  • assessing risk and developmental needs of vulnerable children and families
  • designing and implementing therapeutic intervention
  • crisis intervention and safety planning with children, youth and their families
  • developing therapeutic relationships within challenging contexts
  • applying group and systems theories in milieu work
  • fostering resilience and applying a strength-based approach to assessment and intervention

Have questions? Review our most frequently asked questions and answers.

This program starts in May and is delivered over 12 consecutive months (three consecutive semesters).

Students are required to successfully complete a Ministry-approved crisis intervention training certificate in their third semester.

In preparation for the field or clinical placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups within classes and community settings.

Your Field Education Options

Students gain valuable hands-on experience through two supervised field placement opportunities. Each placement lasts four consecutive months and runs four days a week.

Field placement opportunities take place in agencies and institutions that offer services to the community within the Greater Toronto Area. The CYC program also offers international placement experiences when possible. 

Typical placement sites include:

  • group homes
  • schools
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • community outreach programs
  • youth justice

Students are expected to work both day and evening shifts (not overnight) and may be requested to work on some weekends.

 

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Develop and maintain relationships with children, youth and their families applying principles of relational practice and respecting their unique life space, cultural and human diversity.
  2. Assess and respond to the strengths and needs of children and youth, including complex responses impacted by developmental, environmental, physical, emotional, social and mental health challenges in order to promote positive change.
  3. Analyze and evaluate the impact of the inter-relationship among family, social service, justice and community systems on children, youth and their families and use this information in the planning of holistic care and in the reduction of systemic barriers.
  4. Plan, implement and evaluate interventions using evidence‐informed practices in the areas of therapeutic milieu and programming, and group work to promote resiliency and to enhance development in children, youth and their families.
  5. Advocate for the rights of children, youth and their families and maintain an anti-oppression perspective and cultural competence in diverse cultural contexts.
  6. Apply communication, teamwork and organizational skills within the interprofessional team and with community partners to enhance the quality of service in child and youth care practice.
  7. Develop and implement self-care strategies using self-inquiry and reflection processes to promote self- awareness and to enhance practice as a child and youth care practitioner.
  8. Use evidence-based research, professional development resources and supervision models to support professional growth and lifelong learning.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 4: May - August

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1057Child and Adolescent Development
CYCS 2042Human Sexuality
CYCS 1048Therapeutic Activities
CYCS 1049Counselling Children and Youth
CYCS 2038Field Practice I
CYCS 2039Field Work Seminar I
CYCS 2047Introduction to Child and Youth Care and Legislation

SEMESTER 5: September - December

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1050Group Work with Adolescents
CYS 1055Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppressive Practices
CYCS 2026Trauma Informed Approaches
CYCS 3017Mental Health in Child and Youth Care
CYCS 3020Community Based Practices
BST 2003Crisis Prevention and Intervention

SEMESTER 6: January - April

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 2011Writing for the Profession
CYCS 2035Field Work Seminar II
CYCS 3016Working with Families
CYCS 3018Field Practice II

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Child and Youth Care graduates are eligible for membership in the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors (OACYC), the professional association representing Child and Youth Care Practitioners in the province of Ontario.

Our graduates find employment in:

  • treatment centres
  • group homes
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • schools
  • community-based treatment programs
  • youth justice

Future Study Options

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program may qualify for advanced standing in other programs at George Brown College. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

Graduates are also eligible to apply for the degree completion program in Child and Youth Care at

Graduates can also apply for advanced standing in the B.A. Health/Community in the School of Public Health and Social Policy at the University of Victoria.

For further information, see Transfer Guide.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,689.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • Completion of a 2-year or 3-year diploma, or a 3-year or 4-year bachelor's degree

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Special Requirements

Clinical Pre-placement health form requirements and program policy

  • Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Requisite health form requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
  • Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records such as (MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titers, Tdap shot valid every 10 years and Two Step TB Skin Test), a clear police vulnerable sector check renewed every year, Standard First Aid certificate renewed every three years and CPR level C renewed every year. This requirements must be submitted by the given deadline to ParaMed.
  • Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and requirements will not be eligible to attend and excluded from the field practicum which may jeopardize your academic standing and unable to graduate in this program.
  • All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
  • To download the mandatory Requisite health form and for more details, go to the Pre-placement website.

Police Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)

  • In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a police vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
  • The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
  • Students are responsible for ensuring that the police vulnerable sector check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).”
  • Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
  • Students who are unable to provide a “clear” police vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
  • Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
  • The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Pre-placement website.

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Deyana Sameh, 2018 Graduate

"After working at Cedar Heights Residential Living for just a few months, I was hired as a case manager. I work with youth living with brain based development issues who often have more than one diagnosis.

There is never a dull day at work but I feel confident in the field due to my experience at GBC. I had a good base to start from because of the dedication of faculty in making course content relevant and I can apply lessons learnt to my actual work.

Thank you once again for everything!"

Hayley Pocock, 2016 Graduate

"I really feel that this program prepares you well. You're going to learn what you need to know and I think you're learning it from the right people."

Contact Us

School of Social & Community Services

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2185

Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca.

Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Child  and Youth Care (Accelerated) Program Co-ordinators:

Judy Masters, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3708,
Email: jmasters@georgebrown.ca

Pearl Fernandez, Phone: 416-415-5000 ext. 2980
Email: pearl.fernandez@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

We encourage you to sign up for an information session to learn more about this program, meet your professors and have your questions answered.

Check for upcoming information session dates and times.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Child and Youth Care Program (Accelerated) (C153)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

This program previously used the code C143

Leadership Claims

PLEASE NOTE: The Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program runs from May 2021 through April 2022 for 12 consecutive months.

Child and Youth Care Educational Accreditation Board of Canada

This Child and Youth Care program has earned national accreditation from the Child and Youth Care Educational Accreditation Board of Canada, becoming the first of its kind in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area and the third in Canada to do so.

Program Overview

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) (CYC) program, you will have an opportunity to learn how to work effectively with at-risk children, youth and families who are experiencing developmental, mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Apply to this program stream if you have already completed a two- or three-year diploma, or a three- or four-year degree.

Full Description

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the planned delivery of this course starting in September 2020 will be online with alternate hybrid delivery embedded into the field placement experience.

PLEASE NOTE: In response to this evolving situation, the delivery, learning activities and evaluation methods may be further modified mid-semester.

Learners will require access to high-speed internet, a computer with a built-in or external web camera, a microphone and Google Chrome or Firefox as a web browser.

PLEASE NOTE: The Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program runs from May 2021 through April 2022 for 12 consecutive months.

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program, you will have the opportunity to learn how to support at-risk children, youth and families by developing therapeutic skills and abilities. Over the course of 12 consecutive months (three semesters), you will learn how to build therapeutic relationships with clients and collaborate with a professional team as you develop skill sets to create a professional identity as an agent of change.

Scope of practice includes:

  • assessing risk and developmental needs of vulnerable children and families
  • designing and implementing therapeutic intervention
  • crisis intervention and safety planning with children, youth and their families
  • developing therapeutic relationships within challenging contexts
  • applying group and systems theories in milieu work
  • fostering resilience and applying a strength-based approach to assessment and intervention

Have questions? Review our most frequently asked questions and answers.

This program starts in May and is delivered over 12 consecutive months (three consecutive semesters).

Students are required to successfully complete a Ministry-approved crisis intervention training certificate in their third semester.

In preparation for the field or clinical placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups within classes and community settings.

Your Field Education Options

Students gain valuable hands-on experience through two supervised field placement opportunities. Each placement lasts four consecutive months and runs four days a week.

Field placement opportunities take place in agencies and institutions that offer services to the community within the Greater Toronto Area. The CYC program also offers placement experiences in Jamaica and India. Typical placement sites include:

  • group homes
  • schools
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • community outreach programs

Students are expected to work both day and evening shifts (not overnight) and may be requested to work on some weekends.

Note: Field placements are unpaid positions.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Develop and maintain relationships with children, youth and their families applying principles of relational practice and respecting their unique life space, cultural and human diversity.
  2. Assess and respond to the strengths and needs of children and youth, including complex responses impacted by developmental, environmental, physical, emotional, social and mental health challenges in order to promote positive change.
  3. Analyze and evaluate the impact of the inter-relationship among family, social service, justice and community systems on children, youth and their families and use this information in the planning of holistic care and in the reduction of systemic barriers.
  4. Plan, implement and evaluate interventions using evidence‐informed practices in the areas of therapeutic milieu and programming, and group work to promote resiliency and to enhance development in children, youth and their families.
  5. Advocate for the rights of children, youth and their families and maintain an anti-oppression perspective and cultural competence in diverse cultural contexts.
  6. Apply communication, teamwork and organizational skills within the interprofessional team and with community partners to enhance the quality of service in child and youth care practice.
  7. Develop and implement self-care strategies using self-inquiry and reflection processes to promote self- awareness and to enhance practice as a child and youth care practitioner.
  8. Use evidence-based research, professional development resources and supervision models to support professional growth and lifelong learning.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 4: May - August

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1057Child and Adolescent Development
CYCS 2042Human Sexuality
CYCS 1048Therapeutic Activities
CYCS 1049Counselling Children and Youth
CYCS 2038Field Practice I
CYCS 2039Field Work Seminar I
CYCS 2047Introduction to Child and Youth Care and Legislation

SEMESTER 5: September - December

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 1050Group Work with Adolescents
CYS 1055Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppressive Practices
CYCS 2026Trauma Informed Approaches
CYCS 3017Mental Health in Child and Youth Care
CYCS 3020Community Based Practices
BST 2003Crisis Prevention and Intervention

SEMESTER 6: January - April

CodeCourse Name
CYCS 2011Writing for the Profession
CYCS 2035Field Work Seminar II
CYCS 3016Working with Families
CYCS 3018Field Practice II

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Child and Youth Care graduates are eligible for membership in the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors (OACYC), the professional association representing Child and Youth Care Practitioners in the province of Ontario.

Our graduates find employment as workers in:

  • treatment centres
  • group homes
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • schools
  • community-based treatment programs

Future Study Options

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program may qualify for advanced standing in other programs at George Brown College. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

Graduates are also eligible to apply for the degree completion program in Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University, Humber College and University of Victoria in B.C. Graduates can also apply for advanced standing in the B.A. Health/Community in the School of Public Health and Social Policy at the University of Victoria.

For further information, see georgebrown.ca/transferguide.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,673.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2019. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2020 and at later dates.

International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • Completion of a 2-year or 3-year diploma, or a 3-year or 4-year bachelor's degree

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

International (Visa) Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Special Requirements

Clinical Pre-placement health form requirements and program policy

  • Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Requisite health form requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
  • Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records such as (MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titers, Tdap shot valid every 10 years and Two Step TB Skin Test), a clear police vulnerable sector check renewed every year, Standard First Aid certificate renewed every three years and CPR level C renewed every year. This requirements must be submitted by the given deadline to ParaMed.
  • Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and requirements will not be eligible to attend and excluded from the field practicum which may jeopardize your academic standing and unable to graduate in this program.
  • All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
  • To download the mandatory Requisite health form and for more details, go to the Pre-placement website at georgebrown.ca/preplacement/social-and-community-services.aspx

Police Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)

  • In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a police vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
  • The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
  • Students are responsible for ensuring that the police vulnerable sector check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).”
  • Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
  • Students who are unable to provide a “clear” police vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
  • Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
  • The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Pre-placement website at georgebrown.ca/preplacement/record_check/

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Deyana Sameh, 2018 Graduate

"After working at Cedar Heights Residential Living for just a few months, I was hired as a case manager. I work with youth living with brain based development issues who often have more than one diagnosis.

There is never a dull day at work but I feel confident in the field due to my experience at GBC. I had a good base to start from because of the dedication of faculty in making course content relevant and I can apply lessons learnt to my actual work.

Thank you once again for everything!"

Hayley Pocock, 2016 Graduate

"I really feel that this program prepares you well. You're going to learn what you need to know and I think you're learning it from the right people."

Contact Us

School of Social & Community Services

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2185

Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca.

Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Child  and Youth Care (Accelerated) Program Co-ordinators:

Judy Masters, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3708,
Email: jmasters@georgebrown.ca

Zalina Mohamad, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3034,
Email: Zalina.Mohamad@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

We encourage you to sign up for an information session to learn more about this program, meet your professors and have your questions answered.

For a list of information session dates and times, visit georgebrown.ca/C153_info

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Child and Youth Care Program (Accelerated) (C143)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

As of May 2020 this program's code will change to C153

Leadership Claims

This Child and Youth Care program has earned national accreditation, becoming the first of its kind in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area and the third in Canada to do so.

Program Overview

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program, you will have an opportunity to learn how to work effectively with at risk children, youth and families who are experiencing developmental, mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Apply to this program stream if you have already completed a 2 or 3 year diploma or a 3 or 4 year degree.

Full Description

In the Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) program, you will have the opportunity to learn how to support at risk children, youth and families by developing therapeutic skills and abilities. Over the course of 16 consecutive months (4 semesters), you will learn how to build therapeutic relationships with clients and collaborate with a professional team as you develop skill sets to create a professional identity as an agent of change.

Scope of practice includes:

  • Assessing risk and developmental needs of vulnerable children and families
  • Designing and implementing therapeutic intervention
  • Crisis intervention and safety planning with children, youth and their families
  • Developing therapeutic relationships within challenging contexts
  • Applying group and systems theories in milieu work
  • Fostering resilience and applying a strength-based approach to assessment and intervention

Have questions? Review our most frequently asked questions and answers.

This program starts in January and is delivered over 16 consecutive months (four consecutive semesters).

Students are required to successfully complete a Ministry-approved crisis intervention training certificate in their third semester.

In preparation for the field or clinical placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups within classes and community settings.

Your Field Education Options

Students gain valuable hands-on experience through two supervised field placement opportunities. Each placement lasts four consecutive months and runs four days a week providing approximately 900 hours of field-related experience.

Field placement opportunities take place in agencies and institutions that offer services to the community within the Greater Toronto Area. The CYC program also offers placement experiences in Jamaica and India. Typical placement sites include:

  • hospitals
  • group homes
  • schools
  • youth shelters
  • community outreach programs

Students are expected to work both day and evening shifts (not overnight) and may be requested to work on some weekends.

Note: Field placements are unpaid positions.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Develop and maintain relationships with children, youth and their families applying principles of relational practice and respecting their unique life space, cultural and human diversity.
  2. Assess and respond to the strengths and needs of children and youth, including complex responses impacted by developmental, environmental, physical, emotional, social and mental health challenges in order to promote positive change.
  3. Analyze and evaluate the impact of the inter-relationship among family, social service, justice and community systems on children, youth and their families and use this information in the planning of holistic care and in the reduction of systemic barriers.
  4. Plan, implement and evaluate interventions using evidence‐informed practices in the areas of therapeutic milieu and programming, and group work to promote resiliency and to enhance development in children, youth and their families.
  5. Advocate for the rights of children, youth and their families and maintain an anti-oppression perspective and cultural competence in diverse cultural contexts.
  6. Apply communication, teamwork and organizational skills within the interprofessional team and with community partners to enhance the quality of service in child and youth care practice.
  7. Develop and implement self-care strategies using self-inquiry and reflection processes to promote self- awareness and to enhance practice as a child and youth care practitioner.
  8. Use evidence-based research, professional development resources and supervision models to support professional growth and lifelong learning.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 3: January - April

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
CYCS1047Introduction to Child & Youth Care
CYCS1048Therapeutic Activities
CYCS1049Counselling Children & Youth
CYCS1055Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppressive Practices
CYCS1056Legislation & Social Issues
CYCS1057Child & Adolescent Development

SEMESTER 4: May - August

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
CYCS2011Writing for the Profession
CYCS2030Field Practice I
CYCS2034Field Work Seminar I

SEMESTER 5: September - December

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
BST2003Crisis Prevention and Intervention
CYCS1050Group Work With Adolescents
CYCS2026Trauma Informed Approaches
CYCS3016Working with Families
CYCS3017Mental Health
CYCS3020Community Based Practices

SEMESTER 6: January - April

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
CYCS2035Field Work Seminar II
CYCS2042Human Sexuality
CYCS3018Field Practice II

Detailed course outlines

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Graduates find employment as workers in:

  • treatment centres
  • group homes
  • hospitals
  • youth shelters
  • schools
  • community-based treatment programs

Future Study Options

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program may qualify for advanced standing in other programs at George Brown College. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

Graduates are also eligible to apply for the degree completion program in Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University,Humber College and University of Victoria in B.C. Graduates can also apply for advanced standing in the B.A. Health/Community in the School of Public Health and Social Policy at the University of Victoria.

Students are eligible for membership in the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors (OACYC), the professional association representing Child and Youth Workers in the province of Ontario.

For further information, see georgebrown.ca/transferguide.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,890.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.

International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • Completion of a 2-year or 3-year diploma, or a 3-year or 4-year bachelor's degree

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

International (Visa) Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Special Requirements

Clinical Pre-placement health form requirements and program policy

  • Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Requisite health form requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
  • Students will need to process and provide proof of theirmedical recordssuch as (MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titers, Tdap shot valid every 10 years and Two Step TB Skin Test), a clearpolice vulnerable sector checkrenewed every year,Standard First Aid certificaterenewed every three years and CPR level Crenewed every year. This requirements must be submitted by the given deadline toParaMed.
  • Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and requirements will not be eligible to attend and excluded from the field practicum which may jeopardize your academic standing and unable to graduate in this program.
  • All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
  • To download the mandatory Requisite health form and for more details, go to the Pre-placement website atwww.georgebrown.ca/preplacement/social-and-community-services.aspx

Police Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)

  • In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have apolice vulnerable sector checkcompleted, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
  • The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
  • Students are responsible for ensuring that the police vulnerable sector check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).”
  • Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
  • Students who are unable to provide a “clear” police vulnerable sector check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
  • Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
  • The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Pre-placement website at/preplacement/record_check/

How to Apply

Apply To

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Deyana Sameh, 2018 Graduate

"After working at Cedar Heights Residential Living for just a few months, I was hired as a case manager. I work with youth living with brain based development issues who often have more than one diagnosis.

There is never a dull day at work but I feel confident in the field due to my experience at GBC. I had a good base to start from because of the dedication of faculty in making course content relevant and I can apply lessons learnt to my actual work.

Thank you once again for everything!"

Hayley Pocock, 2016 Graduate

"I really feel that this program prepares you well. You're going to learn what you need to know and I think you're learning it from the right people."

Contact Us

School of Social & Community Services

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 2185

Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca.

Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Child  and Youth Care (Accelerated) Program Co-ordinators:

Judy Masters, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3708,
Email: jmasters@georgebrown.ca

Zalina Mohamad, Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 3034,
Email: Zalina.Mohamad@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

We encourage you to sign up for an information session to learn more about this program, meet your professors and have your questions answered.

For a list of information session dates and times, visit georgebrown.ca/C143_info

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.