- Program Length4 Months
- CredentialCertificate
-
Location OfferedNanaimo
Are you a creative person working the health or human services sector? Want more joy in your workday? As an activity assistant you bring happiness into the lives of older adults. You help create programming that promotes wellness, and you get to participate in the fun activities you design for your clients. It’s a career that can give you a daily dose of joy.
The Activity Assistant Certificate Program
This part–time program is designed to provide post–basic training for individuals with previous Home Support/Resident Care Attendant (HS/RCA) training and experience. Graduates will be prepared to work as Activity Assistants in a variety of settings.
Program Content
Building on the HS/RCA Program, students will explore the theory and skills necessary to work as an Activity Assistant. Students are introduced to activity as a part of life that influences, and is influenced by health, age, interests, values, and environment.
The program consists of classroom instruction and practicum experience. Topics include:
- A framework for the Activity Assistant role
- Activity for well–being
- Programming ideas for clients with cognitive impairment
- Practicum
Course Delivery
Courses are offered on a part–time basis. The classroom component is typically scheduled on a weeknight and Saturdays. The practicum component is scheduled on an individual basis, reflecting the requirements of the practicum site and student.
Get help paying for this program
StrongerBC future skills grant
If you’re a British Columbian over the age of 19, you likely qualify for the StrongerBC future skills grant. This program is eligible for the grant, which covers up to $3,500 in tuition, fees and course materials.
- Current Home Support/Resident Care Attendant (HS/RCA) Program Certificate from an approved post-secondary institution, or equivalent standing through prior learning assessment;
- Proof of employment as an HS/RCA within the last 4 years;
- Completed Immunization Requirements form.
Note: This program is not eligible for student loans.
Notes on Admission
- Prior to starting the practicum placements, students must submit documentation of the following:
- Fieldwork and/or practicums will require a satisfactory criminal record check prior to placement. Criminal Record Checks are requested through VIU. The Registration Centre at VIU will contact prospective students by mail regarding the requirements for a Criminal Record Check. Criminal Record Checks are processed through the Ministry according to the Criminal Records Review Act. A check completed through the RCMP is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the Act.
- Current CPR C Certificate.
- Foodsafe Level I Certificate.
Note: Many employers require a Class IV Driver's License and a minimum of 1 year related work experience.
The Activity Assistant Program provides students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and values necessary to plan and implement individual and group activities for older adults in intermediate and extended care facilities and community settings. The graduate is prepared to function under the direction of an appropriate health care professional and to work collaboratively with other team members, families and volunteers.
Domestic Fees
Tuition and Other Mandatory Student Fees
When applying to the program, applicants will be charged a non-refundable application fee.
When applying to graduate, students will be charged a non-refundable graduation and alumni fee.
Some courses have additional fees to pay for extraordinary class–related expenses.
Fees |
Amount |
|---|---|
|
Tuition |
2,820.02 |
|
Student Activity fee |
78.31 |
|
VIU Students' Union fee (4 months x $26.59 per month) |
106.36 |
|
Total |
3,004.69 |
* Amounts calculated using Nanaimo Campus rates.
All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.
UpdatedDomestic (Canadian)
| Program Start Date | Accepting Applications | Location | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 11, 2024 |
Feb 1, 2023 to Nov 17, 2023
|
Nanaimo
|
January 11, 2024 |
|
Anticipated intake for someone applying today
Jan 11, 2024
Next Intake(s)
Accepting International Applications
No
Application Fee
$44.27
Accepting Late Applications
No
Testing Required
No
Admissions Assistant
Name: Donna Kist Area Contact
Name: Yan Li Coordinator Contact
Name: Karen Blackman Documentation Deadline
Deadline to submit documents: December 1, 2023
|
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Further information on this program can be found on the Department website.
Previous versions of this program can be found in the Program Archive.