Youth Care Worker CERTIFICATE at Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Program Overview

Does a career of working one-on-one with youth and families interest you? Check out the Youth Care Worker program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. You’ll find two options: the one-year certificate or the two-year diploma. Whichever you choose, you’ll need a steady personality, strong listening skills, compassion and respect for others.

Graduates of the one-year certificate program are qualified for jobs as youth or family service workers in educational, residential, social services or community-based agencies.

The one-year Youth Care Worker certificate program is offered full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus and part time (some day and evening courses) through Continuing Education, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Regina Campus and Prince Albert Campus, as well as through distance education. Qualified instructors with experience in the field will help you develop the skills you need to build therapeutic relationships with children, youth and families. Your studies will focus on:

• Indigenous awareness;
• addictions and the criminal justice system;
• behavioural intervention strategies and therapeutic activities;
• communication, employability and problem-solving skills;
• crisis prevention/self-protection strategies;
• health & wellness, human growth and development; and
• planning and implementing activities.

Practical, Real-World Learning

The program combines classroom theory with practical learning. You’ll learn from guest speakers and participate in experiential activities. Two work-based practicums give you an opportunity to work directly with children and youth at risk on a day-to-day basis. You’ll apply core concepts learned in class, develop your skills and engage in the design and delivery of programs.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

When you graduate, look for positions as a youth worker, family support worker, group home staff, community outreach worker or classroom assistant. There are job opportunities in community-based child and youth programs, school-based programs, residential treatment centres, recreation programs, home-based care, child and youth advocacy, and community development.