Activity Assistant Certificate
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Certificate |
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Domestic applicants only |
HEU members who meet eligibility criteria may qualify for funding to cover program tuition through the FBA Education Fund. For details, visit the HEU website.
This is a credit program offered through Continuing Education and Training.Stay connected
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Applications open. |
Overview
This program provides specialized professional development for individuals with prior education and training in health care—such as LPNs, RNs, health care assistants and home care aides — or in community support, including graduates of education assistant and community support programs.
You'll learn:
- The role of an activity assistant and how activities impact health, aging and well-being
- Theories and strategies for activity programming, with a focus on dementia care
- How to design and implement engaging, person-centered programs
- A care-planning approach to support individual needs and interests
Upon graduation, you'll be ready to work alongside activity coordinators to deliver recreational programs in a variety of settings, from seniors’ centers and adult day programs to residential care homes and clients' own homes.
Requirements and courses
Practicum
You’ll apply the knowledge and skills from class to actual practice during two supervised practice experiences, working with adults in a variety of community and facility care settings.
Supplies
Students must have a desktop or laptop computer with a working camera, audio and internet service in order to complete this program.
Careers
Graduates with this certificate often find employment as an activity aide in health services like hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes, community centres, hospice care, residential homes, community mental health centres and even cruise ships. Other roles could include recreation programmer, activity worker, program assistant, recreational aide, wellness assistant or life enrichment worker.
$49,137*
Annual median estimated earnings for health support assistants in BC.
*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
Apply for this program through EducationPlannerBC. After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.
Questions? We’re with you along the way. To contact a recruiter, email futurestudents@nic.bc.ca.
"NIC has been the best experience that I've had in my schooling. My instructors were amazing. They opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and how to approach the world."
Megan Borland - NIC alum
"The instructors will make time for you; they really helped me become more confident in myself."
Naomi Johnson - NIC alum
“I grew up in the Comox Valley and really liked living here. I was looking for an opportunity to start my post-secondary education without going too far and I was really drawn by NIC’s small classes, being local and saving a bit of money was a nice perk."
Nolan deWitt - NIC alum
