Program and Course Search
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Business Administration - Advanced Diploma
Overview
Complete the third year of a bachelor's degree at Selkirk College and transfer to Okanagan College for your final year.
If you have a diploma in Business from any college, our Advanced Diploma provides the third year of an Okanagan College degree that transfer directly into your final year.
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, learners will be able to:
- Further develop the outcomes of the Selkirk Diploma in Business Administration
- To provide transferrable courses to an Okanagan College Bachelor’s degree specifically, and to other Business programs generally
Admission Requirements
Successful completion of the Selkirk College Business Administration program or equivalent
- Official admission to this program will not take place until completion or the academic requirement is met; however, students may be able to access courses from within this program subject to availability.
- Entry may be limited by space limitations.
- Students admitted to a specific program will be given preferred access to that program’s courses.
- It is the student’s responsibility to correspond with receiving institutions to ensure that their Selkirk College course selection will meet their Bachelor of Business Administration educational goals.
1. Part-time Study
a) The program encourages and supports part-time study.
2. Co-op Education
a) The Co-op Education Program of work terms will be an option within this program.
APPLICATION PROCESS
1. Before an applicant’s file is considered to be complete, the following must have been received by the Admissions Department:
a) Completed application form.
b) The appropriate official transcripts.
2. The deadline for receiving required documentation is stated in the student’s admissions letter.
3. An interview (in person or by telephone) with the Program Coordinator or designate may be required before entry to the program. Interview results are not used as criteria for admission.
1. To be promoted in good standing, a student must achieve a minimum GPA of 2.00.
2. To be qualified for automatic admission into a course which stipulates a prerequisite, a minimum grade of “C” or better must be achieved in the prerequisite course, unless the course concerned requires a higher grade.
3. Students will not be permitted to exceed a full semester course load except with the permission of the School Chair or designate.
4. Two (2) failures in a non-elective course are normally cause for withdrawal from the program. A third attempt at a course may be made at the discretion of the School Chair or designate.
5. Any student who has left the program because of unsatisfactory performance may be readmitted with the approval of the School Chair or designate after consultation with Faculty members.
Note: A student who has completed the graduation requirements with a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or better and no “C+” or lower grades in any subject will be designated as graduating with Honours.
1. Requirements: (see Policy 8617: Graduation)
2. Students must complete 30 credits comprised of the following:
(a) Up to 9 credits from Selkirk College School of UAS
(b) Up to 30 credits from Selkirk College School of Business that have not been taken in their previous Diploma
(c) The student is advised to consult with the receiving institution to validate that Selkirk College courses will transfer into their preferred program plan.
If the student completed TWC 164 Technical Writing as part of the Business Administration two-year diploma, then the student may want to consider taking ENGL 110 English Composition and vice versa.
If the student completed TWC 164 Technical Writing as part of the Business Administration two-year diploma, then the student may want to consider taking ENGL 110 English Composition and vice versa.
Courses
Accounting/Finance Concentration
ADMN230 - Project Management
ADMN 230 Project Management is designed as a first course in project management. Building foundation skills in project management is of value to anyone who is currently facing project planning and management challenges at work or to students in Business Administration Professional Management or technology programs. ADMN 230 Project Management gives you the foundation, experience, techniques and tools to: - Learn the 10 Project Management Knowledge Areas - plan a project effectively and successfully - manage each stage of the project life cycle successfully - work with organizational constraints - set goals and objectives tied directly to stakeholder needs - get the most from your project management team - utilize state-of-the-art project management tools to get the work done on time, within scope and on budget.
ADMN286 - Human Resource Management
ADMN 286 Human Resource Management is an examination of how to most effectively utilize and manage the human element in work organizations including staffing, training and development, appraisal and compensation, industrial relations and human resources planning.
ADMN293 - Electronic Commerce
ADMN 293 Electronic Commerce for Professional Management majors in the Business Administration diploma program. This course may also be of interest to students who are interested in learning about implementing e-commerce strategies in an organization. ADMN 293 Electronic Commerce is an introduction to the business models, strategies, marketing design and analytic systems of electronic commerce business solutions. The role of electronic commerce in changing society is also an important topic. The primary aim of ADMN 293 Electronic Commerce is to identify key management considerations required in implementing e-commerce business solutions.
ADMN296 - International Business
ADMN 296 International Business offers an in-depth review of basic concepts, institutional practices and developments in the global business environment. The course also offers an introduction to international business management. Core management topics will be examined within an international framework.
COMM220 - Principles of Organizational Behaviour
COMM 220 Principles of Organizational Behaviour is an introduction to the behaviour, relationships, and performance of individuals and groups in work organizations as well as the nature of organizational structure and processes. Organizational dynamics are examined with a view to creating an effective working environment from a human perspective.
Choose any five courses from the following:
ADMN265 - Operations Management
ADMN 265 Operations Management studies business operations fundamentals such as demand management, forecasting, inventory control, the EOQ model, scheduling, project management, aggregate planning, materials management, value analysis, supplier management, quality management and service center management. The concepts of sustainability and sustainable business practices will be integrated into the different topics.
ADMN310 - Events Management and Marketing
ADMN 310 Events Management and Marketing includes the creation of an event management plan for a potential client. A situation analysis will investigate consumer behaviour, targeting and position as related to the planning and operation of events. Further development of the management plan will require an examination and the application of integrated marketing communications, sales, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management, staging, logistics and performance measures.
BUS410 - Event Management and Marketing
BUS 410 Event Management and Marketing includes the creation of an event management plan for a potential client. A situation analysis will investigate consumer behaviour, targeting and position as related to the planning and operation of events. Further development of the management plan will require an examination and the application of integrated marketing communications, sales, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management, staging, logistics and performance measures.
BUS388 - Personal Finance
BUS 388 Personal Finance explores key personal financial management concepts with a goal of creating an effective personal financial plan. Major concepts include consumer credit, asset management, the time value of money, investments, tax strategies, retirement planning, and estate planning.
BUS389 - Retail Management
BUS 389 Retail Management is a demanding and complex business, which is facing extensive changes and challenges due to factors like: e-commerce, globalization, changing consumer preferences, and more. Skilled retail managers are required to help companies navigate their new environment.
This course provides an introduction to retail management and will provide a foundation for those students who plan to work in retailing or related disciplines. Topics will focus on key functional areas in the retail business, including merchandising, HR, financial strategy, sales, customer service, marketing and more.
BUS415 - Leadership
BUS 415 Leadership examines the theory and practical application of leadership. It covers the latest thinking in leadership theory and contemporary practices at work within organizations in a global economy. Topics such as motivation, strategic planning, team building and negotiation will be explored.
Choose up to four courses from University Arts and Sciences
See the UAS Courses by discipline page for course selections.
If the student completed TWC 164 Technical Writing as part of the Business Administration two-year diploma, then the student may want to consider taking ENGL 110 English Composition and vice versa.
Professional Management Concentration
ADMN269 - Information Systems
ADMN 269 Information Systems is an introductory course that covers the use of computer-based information systems in management and accounting. After completing this course, students will have the knowledge required to make informed decisions about the applications of information technology. (Adapted from CPA).
Choose any nine courses from the following:
ADMN255 - Corporate Finance
ADMN 255 Corporate Finance introduces you to finance concepts and provides you with essential knowledge of various tools used in corporate finance. You will examine the corporate financial environment and its impact on decision-making, introductory finance concepts (including the time value of money, investing and risk management) and distribution of earnings. In addition, you will look at capital budgeting techniques and short-, medium- and long-term financing decisions* (adapted from CPA).
ADMN310 - Events Management and Marketing
ADMN 310 Events Management and Marketing includes the creation of an event management plan for a potential client. A situation analysis will investigate consumer behaviour, targeting and position as related to the planning and operation of events. Further development of the management plan will require an examination and the application of integrated marketing communications, sales, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management, staging, logistics and performance measures.
BUS410 - Event Management and Marketing
BUS 410 Event Management and Marketing includes the creation of an event management plan for a potential client. A situation analysis will investigate consumer behaviour, targeting and position as related to the planning and operation of events. Further development of the management plan will require an examination and the application of integrated marketing communications, sales, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management, staging, logistics and performance measures.
BUS388 - Personal Finance
BUS 388 Personal Finance explores key personal financial management concepts with a goal of creating an effective personal financial plan. Major concepts include consumer credit, asset management, the time value of money, investments, tax strategies, retirement planning, and estate planning.
BUS392 - Professional Sales Skills
BUS 392 Professional Sales Skills. No matter the industry, nor the state of the economy, businesses are almost always on the search to find enthusiastic, entrepreneurial, and effective sales people. Upon successful completion of this course, students will understand and demonstrate the core skills of professional selling, with a focus on the common tools and processes used in the field. Relationship-building and needs-satisfaction are fundamental components of the process. Strong English language verbal communication skills are needed to be successful in this course.
BUS389 - Retail Management
BUS 389 Retail Management is a demanding and complex business, which is facing extensive changes and challenges due to factors like: e-commerce, globalization, changing consumer preferences, and more. Skilled retail managers are required to help companies navigate their new environment.
This course provides an introduction to retail management and will provide a foundation for those students who plan to work in retailing or related disciplines. Topics will focus on key functional areas in the retail business, including merchandising, HR, financial strategy, sales, customer service, marketing and more.
BUS415 - Leadership
BUS 415 Leadership examines the theory and practical application of leadership. It covers the latest thinking in leadership theory and contemporary practices at work within organizations in a global economy. Topics such as motivation, strategic planning, team building and negotiation will be explored.
ECON104 - Economic Analysis for Small Business
ECON 104 Economic Analysis for Small Business is designed to engage students with contemporary global and Canadian issues, and with some of the region's competitive markets. Students will survey contemporary news publications and other data sources, analyzing their contents to identify economic concepts and management implications. Focus will be on identifying the economic impacts on business resulting from the cloud of seemingly chaotic global events.
Choose up to four courses from University Arts and Sciences
See the UAS Courses by discipline page for course selections.
If the student completed TWC 164 Technical Writing as part of the Business Administration two-year diploma, then the student may want to consider taking ENGL 110 English Composition and vice versa.
Tuition & Fees
All amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Tuition amounts are based on a full-time course load. Please note that many programs have additional costs beyond those listed here. For more information, please visit Tuition & Fees.
Policy
Effective Term:
Fall, Winter, SpringEffective Year:
08/01/2025Advanced Standing:
- A student may obtain credit for a maximum of 50% of program requirements by Transfer Credit, Advanced Placement, Prior Learning Assessment or combination thereof. But students planning to pursue further credentials should confirm that this is an optimal approach.
- See Policy 8614: Advanced Standing – Course Challenge, PLA, and Transfer Credit.
Assessment:
- Grading will be based on the Standard Academic and Career Programs grading table from Policy 8612: Grading.
Grading Table:
Standard Academic and Career Programs
Types of Assessments:
- Assignments
- Students are evaluated and graded in each subject or course topic as indicated in the respective course outline.
- Exams, labs, group or individual projects, assignments, presentations, class participation and other evaluative activities are weighted and averaged as indicated in the respective course outline.
- Students will normally receive at least one weeks’ notice of dates and times when assignments and/or tests are to be submitted and/or written.
- If accepted, late assignments may be subject to penalty.
- Students not submitting assignments or not writing scheduled tests will receive a zero mark. However, in some courses it may be mandatory to submit all assignments to an acceptable level and/or to write all exams in order to receive credit or a minimum grade for the course.
- Students who have not completed all assigned work and exams must obtain the instructor’s approval to write the final exam before the exam date. The instructor may require the student to prepare a plan for completion of outstanding work.
- Students are normally expected to complete all assignments using a word processor, spreadsheet, or other computer application as applicable. See individual course outlines for specific requirements.
- Individual course outlines may have other specific requirements for assignments, grades, and/or examinations.
- Examinations
- In some courses, students must receive a passing grade on specified exams in order to pass the course. The details will be explained in the applicable course outlines.
- Students may be allowed to make alternative exam arrangements, with the appropriate instructor, for valid and verifiable reasons such as medical emergency, family bereavement, or jury duty.
- Any alternate arrangements for final examinations must be approved by the School Chair or designate.
- Tests and exams will ordinarily be retained by the instructor.
Attendance:
- Punctual and regular attendance for scheduled classes, laboratory sessions and all of the scheduled learning activities is expected of all students.
- Where absenteeism adversely affects a student’s progress and performance, probation and/or withdrawal from the program may result.
- See individual course outlines for any additional attendance requirements.
Professional Requirements:
- Faculty and students will conduct themselves in a business-like fashion. See Selkirk College Policy 3400: Student Code of Conduct - Rights and Responsibilities.
- Students are expected to be on time and prepared for all classes prior to entering the classroom. Assigned materials are to be read by students; such materials and textbooks are not necessarily reviewed page by page in class by the instructor.
- The student is responsible for researching and obtaining notes of missed sessions. Instructors will not provide personal reviews to students who miss a class.
C
Community Support Worker - Associate Certificate
Overview
An exciting professional development opportunity for experienced support workers!
Flexible Learning
The Community Support Worker (CSW) Associate Certificate is an option available only to experienced, employed learners. Eligible students take six Education Assistant & Community Support Worker (EACSW) courses to receive their CSW Associate Certificate and they then have the opportunity to ladder into the EACSW regular certificate program if they choose to continue their education.
Further Education Opportunities
CSW Associate Certificate can lead to entrance into the EACSW Program. After completing the EACSW requirements, graduates can then continue towards a second year in the Human Services Diploma, laddering into University Degree programs in Child and Youth Care, Social Work or Community Rehabilitation.
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate professionalism in practice consistent with the code of ethics and standards of practice of their respective disciplines
- Use effective interpersonal skills including active listening, collaboration, self-awareness and conflict resolution within multi-faceted roles and contexts
- Understand and respect cultural differences and multiple ways of knowing
- Practice from an ethic of inclusivity
- Establish and maintain wellness strategies to assure work/life balance both personally and professionally
- Engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and reflective practice
Admission Requirements
Potential candidates must be currently employed with a local community living organization and have a minimum of three years of full-time equivalent employment in the field.
- English 12, or equivalent, with a minimum of 60% or higher
Applicants will submit:
- A letter from their employer stating their current position and employment history
- A current resumé
- Official transcripts from previous educational settings and demonstration of college-level English requirement (unless special consideration)
- Two letters of reference
- A 250-word (one typed page) summary stating why they are interested in entering the program
In order to receive your credential in your program, you must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00 and a grade of a “C” or better in all semester courses.
Courses
EACS155 - Foundations Of Practice
EACS 155 Foundations of Practice introduces students to the theory and philosophical perspectives necessary for working with individuals who are challenged by a disabling condition. Values regarding service delivery are explored through an historical review of the disability movement and an examination of new initiatives and trends. This course also examines the role of unions, advocacy and policy and procedures in support services and introduces students to professionals from various professional infrastructure sectors including licensing and ministry personnel. Through personal reflection and research, the roots of person centered support will be explored and students will develop their own personal and professional philosophy of support work.
EACS156 - Support Strategies
EACS 156 Support Strategies focuses on support strategies used with individuals who have disabilities. The analysis and understanding of behaviour as a means of communication is explored. Strategies are learned and practiced in context to support individuals with the development of pro-social skills, life, vocational, and academic skills. An awareness of issues related to healthy sexuality and the ethics of touch are explored. Emphasis is placed on the ethics of support work and effective implementation of strategies to support individuals with disabilities to be as independent as possible.
EACS161 - Person-Centred Planning
EACS 161 Person-Centered Planning focuses on the need for planning, advantages and disadvantages of planning and the key elements of the planning process. The course examines how to identify and obtain information relevant to planning, formulation of long and short-term objectives, prioritization of objectives, and translation of objectives into action. Emphasis is placed on viewing, planning as a dynamic process, and analysis of human interaction as part of the planning process. Models for structuring positive interaction of all planning team members are reviewed.
EACS165 - Health and Wellness
EACS 165 Health and Wellness is designed to introduce the essential concepts of health and wellness with emphasis on six dimensions of wellness including: emotional, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, social and physical. Students will examine health and wellness from two perspectives. The first includes the examination of wellness in the students' lives with emphasis on developing strategies to increase resiliency and well being in the work place. The second dimension will focus on ways in which the wellness of others can be enhanced in a respectful, person-centred way that values personal choice and preferences. The course will emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes being self-directed and on understanding ways in which we can support change in others and ourselves. Lecture, interactive exercises and group discussions will be used to explore a variety of topics including: stress management, diet and nutrition, ageing, intimacy and relationships, immunity, safety, lifestyle, developing relationships and quality of life. The importance of professional accountability and authenticity in supporting the wellness of others will be emphasized.
EACS170 - Augmentative Communication
EACS 170 Augmentative Communication explores the alternative forms of communications for people with little or no speech. Non-speech communication programming is examined through review of normal and disordered language and the strengths and weaknesses of various augmentative communication systems. Communication systems studied include sign language and other manual systems, pictogram/ideogram communication and electronic systems.
FAM180 - Family Dynamics
FAM 180 Family Dynamics is designed to provide students with a variety of theoretical perspectives to understanding families. It considers the diversity of families through the lenses of the life course perspective and political policies. Family formation, parenting, separation and divorce and aging are all examined. Family issues are also considered, including marriage and death rituals, work and poverty, same sex relationships, disabilities and immigrants. Policies that affect families are explored through an examination of violence in the family and political trends. The course is intended to be a foundation for further study of families.
HSER174 - Interpersonal Communications
HSER 174 Interpersonal Communications provides the student with an opportunity to examine personal goals, values and attitudes; develop and practice listening and responding skills, and become more aware of personal strengths and limitations. This course is designed to help students gain self-understanding in order to be more effective in working with people.
Tuition & Fees
All amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Tuition amounts are based on a full-time course load. Please note that many programs have additional costs beyond those listed here. For more information, please visit Tuition & Fees.
Policy
Effective Term:
FallEffective Year:
20240801Advanced Standing:
- Advance or Transfer Credit and Prior Learning Assessment
- Transfer credit will be given for university transfer courses equivalent to Selkirk College courses, providing a grade of "C" or better was achieved.
- Applications for transfer credit from other ECCE, SSW or EACSW programs will be reviewed with provincial articulation agreements and considered on an individual basis; applicants may be required to provide detailed course outlines.
- Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
- Advance credit in core program courses (i.e., SSW, ECCE, EACSW and HSER) may be granted by the School Chair or designate after evaluation of the applicant’s mastery of course objectives. See program specific guidelines for PLA.
- Credit for Final Practicum will not be awarded through PLA in Human Services programs.
Re-Entry Instructions:
- An application is required for enrolment in program courses in subsequent years.
- Normally, students who must interrupt their program may apply for re-admission, within one year of departure, on the basis of the following priorities:
- Students in good standing who interrupted their program for illness or other personal reasons.
- Students who failed to meet program requirements for promotion.
- Students transferring from another program within BC.
- Students who fail to complete a semester successfully may apply to re-enter and repeat the incomplete semester when it is next offered. (Normally, there is a period of 12 months between offerings of a course or semester.)
- Normally, a student returning in one year or less will retain full credit for all courses previously completed. After more than one year's absence, students may be required to update or repeat courses previously completed. A grade of "C" or credit granted in each repeated course is required for re-entry.
- Students who withdraw for medical or psychological reasons will provide evidence to the School Chair from a licensed practitioner regarding the suitability of his/her return to the program.
- Students must complete the program in its entirety within 60 calendar months from the time of initial entry into the program.
- Students who have successfully completed their Selkirk College Human Services certificate within the previous year are considered to be a re-entry student.
- Re-entry full-time students who have successfully completed their previous year are given priority over part time students.
Grading Table:
Other
Types of Assessments:
- Assignments
- A minimum of three evaluative events will occur as specified in course outlines.
- Students are evaluated and graded in each subject or course topic as indicated in the respective course outline.
- Assignments are due on the date stated on course or assignment outlines. A student may request one extension per course. The request must be made in writing no less than 24 hours before the due date. If the instructor grants permission for the extension the revised due date will be determined by the instructor.
- Under extenuating circumstances further requests for extensions may be granted only after the student has participated in a mandatory consultation with the Department Head of Student Access and Support or designate and has presented the instructor with a written plan outlining how they intend to complete their work in a timely manner.
- A penalty of 10% per day will be assessed against late assignments. All assignments must be handed in by the last day of classes in order to achieve a passing grade and advance to the practicum.
- All course assignments must be completed to achieve a passing grade.
- All assignments must be typed.
- Students may, at the discretion of the instructor, rewrite a maximum of one assignment per course. Rewrites must be submitted for marking within 14 calendar days of the return of the original assignment to the student. Rewritten assignments will receive a maximum grade of 75%.
- Students are expected to write tests on the designated dates. If, for legitimate absences, the student misses a test, he/she must write the test as soon as possible with the permission of the instructor.
- Examinations
- Exams, labs, projects, assignments, and other evaluative activities are weighted and averaged as indicated in the respective course outline.
- No single evaluative event shall be worth more than 50% of the final grade.
- For courses involving practicum placements (ECCE 195, 286, 292, 294; SSW 163, 168; EASC 195, 196; HSER 270, 280) evaluation occurs on a continuous basis and graded CRG or NCG as per the Competency Based Selkirk Grading Table in Selkirk College Policy 8612 Grading. All practicum activities may be considered evaluative events. Informal verbal and/or written feedback is regularly provided by the instructor and practicum supervisors. Depending on the length of the course there may be one or more performance appraisals or evaluations.
Attendance:
- Students absent for 20% or more in a given course may be placed on behavioural probation. If a student arrives more than 10 minutes late or leaves more than 10 minutes early, they may be recorded as absent.
- Students absent from any courses are responsible for the work they have missed and must make up assignments as required.
- Students are responsible to inform the instructor in advance of any absences.
- Students participating in on-line classes are expected to access and read all materials posted on their course site. If any aspect of the course has not been opened and/or participated in the student will be considered absent for that class.
Professional Requirements:
- Codes of Ethics and Competencies
- Students are expected to know, understand and abide by the applicable Codes of Ethics:
- Child and Youth Care Worker;
- Social Service Worker;
- Early Childhood Educator;
- Education Assistant & Community Support Worker.
- Guidelines for Professional Conduct
- Students are expected to know, understand and abide by the applicable Codes of Ethics:
- In addition, students are expected to consistently demonstrate professional conduct based on the following guidelines:
- exercise personal discipline, accountability and judgement,
- accept personal responsibility for continued competency and learning,
- assist and serve the public, client or patient and place them before oneself,
- recognize the dignity and worth of all persons in any level of society,
- assist others in learning,
- recognize one’s own limitations and areas for development, and
- maintain confidentiality of information appropriate to the purpose and trust given when that information is acquired.
- Professional Conduct will be measured by: one’s professional abilities, personal integrity, and the attitude one demonstrates in relationship with others.
- Students who violate these professional standards may be required to withdraw from their Program.
- Students may be required to withdraw when ethical, medical or other reasons interfere with the satisfactory completion of their Program.
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G
Gerontological Nursing - Postgraduate Diploma
*Please note, this program is not accepting applications for the September 2025 (fall) term as the program undergoes a review.
Overview
The geriatric population is the fastest growing health cohort around the world. Currently 70 per cent of all patients in Canada are elderly. Registered nurses must have specialized knowledge and training to effectively educate, assess and care for these older people.
This Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nursing will give you the tools and skills to meet the complex physical, social, environmental, cognitive and spiritual needs of the elderly.
You will be given the chance to have intercultural exchange between graduate nurses from other countries and on-campus BSN students. This will promote rich dialogue about nursing approaches, philosophies and global health needs. Learn more about the international experience at Selkirk College.
Seminars and occasional class interaction will provide added opportunity for an exchange of ideas and nursing expertise.
Curriculum
Upon completion of this program, you will:
- Interpret basic geriatric trends and issues
- Analyze and test a wide variety of health assessment tools
- Demonstrate critical, innovative thinking when problem-solving complex geriatric issues
- Illustrate how to educate towards wellness in aging
- Develop advocacy skills at relational, unit and policy making levels
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Identify the roles, scope and required skillset of registered nurses in Canada
- Synthesize theories and principles of health, wellness, aging and geriatric care
- Apply critical thinking, decision-making and clinical reasoning skills
- Interpret research findings in order to provide evidence-based gerontological care
- Apply entry-to-practice level leadership techniques/strategies when working within the inter-professional gerontological care team
- Communicate effectively and efficiently in various formats to a variety of stakeholders, consistent with professional expectations
- Apply the basic principles of culturally sensitive and client-centred care
- Conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner in academic and work-related environments
- Formulate strategies to support lifelong learning in one’s personal nursing practice
- Apply strategies for registration with the BC Care Aid Registry and BC College of Nurses and Midwives
- Provide person-centred care and assistance that recognizes and respects the uniqueness of each individual client
- Use an informed problem-solving approach to provide care and assistance that promotes the physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and spiritual health and well-being of clients and families
- Provide person-centred care and assistance for clients experiencing complex health challenges.
- Provide person-centred care and assistance for clients experiencing cognitive and/or mental health challenges
- Interact with other members of the health care team in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals
- Communicate clearly, accurately, and sensitively with clients and families in a variety of community and facility contexts
- Provide personal care and assistance in a safe, competent, and organized manner
- Recognize and respond to own self-development, learning, and health enhancement needs
- Perform the care provider role in a reflective, responsible, accountable, and professional manner
Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the general entrance requirements for admission to Selkirk College, applicants from countries outside of Canada must meet the following requirements:
- Possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree or a Graduate Nurse/Midwife Diploma from a recognized nursing school with English as a primary language of instruction.
- Registration with a national/provincial/state nursing association in their home country and be able to provide documentation
- English Language Proficiency of IELTS test in the last two years. 6.5 overall with no band score lower than 6.0
- One letter of reference from current or previous employer
- Resumé or CV with a minimum of 900 hours nursing experience within the last five years
- Completed immunization forms
a) Applicants must submit a completed application form and original documentation of certification and transcripts from previous institutions.
b) Post-graduate nursing practice experience is preferred.
International students must submit a clear police certificate from the country of origin before acceptance, given that students provide care to vulnerable clients within the program’s practicum courses. To avoid potential hardship for students arriving from another country, the police certificate is an admission requirement. For further information, see information provided at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/medical-police/police-certificates/about.html#pc
APPLICATION PROCESS
See Selkirk International Application process http://selkirk.ca/international/how-apply-selkirk-college.
PRE-PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS
1. Evidence of completion of the following must be submitted to the Program Coordinator before the first practice education experience. All evidence must be current and valid.
a). First Aid Certification
b). CPR Level “C” Certification or Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification with Oxygen Therapy
c). Food Safe Level 1 Certification (or a certificate course deemed equivalent)
d). Completion of the Student Practice Education Core Orientation (SPECO) checklist
e). Completion of the Health Care Assistant Practice in BC E-Learning Modules (Learning Hub)
f). Completion of the Recognizing and Responding to Adult Abuse course (Learning Hub)
g). Completion of Dementia Training Certificate (GPA/Gentle Persuasive Approach)
h). Completion of Provincial Violence Prevention Curriculum In-Person Workshop
i). All students must submit a Criminal Record Check (CRC) clearance letter by the Ministry of Justice, including clearance to work with vulnerable adults.
Satisfactory completion of all courses in the semester with a minimum grade of 60% and cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or higher each semester is required for promotion.
A student who obtains a grade of less than 60% in EASL 066, may be able to re-enroll if the course is offered again during the two-year period when they attend the college, or if eligible complete supplemental work with permission of the Instructor and School Chair.
Courses
EASL066 - College Preparation - Research Writing
EASL 066 College Preparation - Research Writing is an advanced writing course that focuses on various forms of writing that can be found in the academic and the work world. In addition to formal academic research techniques, this course will also explore practical technical writing skills needed for clear, timely, concise and accurate communication. The writer must focus on the purpose and audience as well as the form, style and organization. In this class, students will produce a variety of practical and academic forms of writing, including correspondence, summaries, instructions, proposals, reports etc.
GNUR399 - College Orientation
GNUR 399 College Orientation. In this course, students will be introduced to the Selkirk College educational experience that will include orientation to academic principles and resources, expectations of the program, and public resources and services to assist with transitioning into life in Canada. This course will also offer an introduction to Canadian indigenous history and the concepts of colonialism, reconciliation, and healing as critical concepts of public health.
GNUR430 - Introduction to Gerontological Nursing
GNUR 430 Introduction to Gerontological Nursing. This course will provide students with the opportunity to explore the unique roles, functions, skillset, and theoretical perspectives of the Canadian trained gerontological nurse. Students will explore current and future demographic shifts, social impacts and needs, and current issues facing older adults. Students will also explore the Canadian standards for gerontological care with a keen focus on promoting wellness. Standards will be critically applied to learning activities in preparation for moving into a variety of practice settings in future courses. Students will be introduced to evidence-based practice assessment tools and analyse their usefulness in planning and delivering care to clients in various stages of health and wellness.
GNUR431 - Introduction to Health Care Practice in Canada
GNUR 431 Introduction to Health Care Practice in Canada. In this course students will be introduced to the roles, functions, and practical skillset of the registered Health Care Assistant (HCA) in British Columbia (BC) and the nationally licensed Registered Nurse (RN). Students will explore the role similarities and differences, refine their interprofessional competencies, and develop their caregiving skills through various practical and lab experiences. Throughout this course students will develop the ability to self-reflect and identify self-development needs for competent practice and employment in the healthcare field.
GNUR443 - Delirium, Dementia and Depression in the Elderly
GNUR 443 Delirium, Dementia and Depression in the Elderly will provide learners with the opportunity to explore the neurocognitive conditions of delirium, dementia and depression with a focus on examining theories of etiology, pathophysiology, and presenting signs and symptoms. Clinical assessments and treatment options will be explored as well as interprofessional healthcare interventions and nursing approaches to support functional capacity and minimize negative functional outcomes. This course will also explore the impact of these conditions on the family and professional caregivers.
GNUR432 - Interpersonal Communications
GNUR 432 Interpersonal Communications. In this course, students will be introduced to strategies to assist in the development of self-awareness, understanding of others, and interpersonal communication skills required for effective interprofessional teamwork. Interpersonal strategies will focus on respect, cultural sensitivity, and client centeredness as critical components of therapeutic relationships with older adults and their families. Students will be encouraged to reflect on the impact of their personal communication patterns and choices and practice strengthening competencies such as active listening, respect, feedback, verbal and non-verbal methods of communication, and initiating critical conversations in the workplace. Students will also have an opportunity to examine and utilize problem-solving and critical-thinking using best practices related to establishing relationships and engaging in conflict resolution.
GNUR440 - Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part I
GNUR 440 Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part I is a course where learners will explore age-related changes and commonly occurring diseases. Using theories for promoting wellness in older adults, learners will identify cumulative risk factors for onset of disease and/or disability and potential negative functional consequences. Learners will also explore the pharmacological and interprofessional approach to disease management and health promotion.
GNUR441 - Basic Skills and Physical Assessment
GNUR 441 Basic Skills and Physical Assessment. In this course, learners will be provided with a structured environment in which to learn and demonstrate Health Care Assistant (HCA) (write out the full term the first time you use it, for RN as well.) and Registered Nurse (RN) level skills related to the provision of personal care and physical assessment. Classes will consist of theory and development of psychomotor skills using simulated clients in the lab setting. Students will receive formative feedback as they are exposed to facets of the Canadian Healthcare System and provincial regulatory standards and competencies for both HCA and RN level work. Skills will be appraised at the end of the course in preparation for clinical learning experiences.
GNUR442 - End of Life Care
GNUR 442 End of Life Care. In this course, learners will reflect on their personal and cultural understanding of death and dying and explore similarities and differences to how end-of-life is perceived and managed in the Canadian context. The guiding theories and principles, caregiver knowledge, and ways of thinking and responding to the unique needs of clients and their families are examined as central concepts of the palliative care approach. Learners will also gain knowledge related to palliative symptom and emergency situation management, family care, communication, loss and grief, and self-care as they develop an appreciation for the demands of working with people in the end stages of life.
GNUR444 - Clinical Practice in Complex Care
GNUR 444 Clinical Practice in Complex Care. This course provides learners with an opportunity to work with older adults with complex healthcare needs within a complex care setting. Under the supervised direction of a clinical instructor, learners apply their basic and post-basic gerontological Health Care Assistant (HCA) and nursing (RN) (does RN stand for nursing?) knowledge and further consolidate their gerontological care competencies. Students are guided through numerous learning activities within the clinical setting and with various clients experiencing common age and disease related issues. Upon completion of this course, students will have a broader understanding of the Canadian healthcare system and the scope and standards of practice of HCAs and RNs in Canada.
Current BLS-HC Certificate
GNUR530 - Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part II
GNUR 530 Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part II is a course where learners will continue to explore age-related changes and commonly occurring diseases. Using theories for promoting wellness in older adults, learners will identify cumulative risk factors for onset of disease and/or disability and potential negative functional consequences. Learners will also explore the pharmacological and interprofessional approach to disease management and health promotion.
GNUR532 - Professional Nursing in the Canadian Health Care System
GNUR 532 Professional Nursing in the Canadian Health Care System will introduce international nurses to the structure of the Canadian health care system, and the roles and scope of practice of nurses working within it. Theoretical foundations of professional nursing practice will provide a basis for understanding and examining standards of practice and ethical responsibilities within nursing. The significance of health promotion and holistic health care will underscore how nurses can provide care that strives to help clients gain or retain quality of life and reduce health disparities within diverse populations.
GNUR533 - Introduction to Nursing Leadership
GNUR 533 Introduction to Nursing Leadership provides an opportunity for learners to further develop and refine their leadership skills. Within this course, learners will compare and contrast their individual leadership skill-set against current leadership theories and models and identify application opportunities in their current practice. Learners will develop strong interpersonal and team building skills while exploring their own personal philosophy of leadership. Learners will focus on developing skills to manage conflict in the workplace, build team performance, collaborate effectively with others, problem-solve, and manage change while pursuing personal improvement and development as nurse leaders.
GNUR535 - Nursing Registration Readiness I
GNUR 535 Nursing Registration Readiness I
Please note that this is not an inclusive Nursing Community Assessment Service (NCAS) preparation course and therefore, does not cover all age groups or health issues covered in the NCAS OSCEs.
Nursing Registration Readiness I provides an opportunity for learners to apply and consolidate nursing knowledge and skills into simulated scenarios. The virtual simulations and hands-on interactive lab setting will assist learners in putting theory into practice in partial preparation for the NCAS objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and/or completing the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) gerontological nursing certificate, if desired. Scenarios will be based on the NCAS blueprints related to older adults which are aligned with the Canadian Gerontological Nursing Association (CGNA), BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), and Canadian Association Schools of Nursing (CASN) competencies for nurse’s working with this population. Areas of focus include: knowledge-based practice (assessment, planning, provision of care, evaluation); accountability, responsibility and ethical behaviour; collaborative practice; and therapeutic relationships. GNUR 545 will provide further registration readiness support in semester 4.
MHAD502 - Mental Health and Addictions
MHAD 502 Mental Health and Addictions provides learners with an opportunity to critically evaluate their personal perspectives and assumptions related to mental health and addiction issues and introduces the impact of external and internal variables that put certain individuals at risk at different stages of life. Treatment and support strategies are explored through the Trauma Informed Care lens with a focus on psychosocial rehabilitation, resilience-building, maximizing functional capacity and minimizing negative outcomes. There is a special focus on understanding previous and current life experiences on coping in older age and MHAD treatment and management considerations for those over the age of 65.
GNUR540 - Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part III
GNUR 540 Physical Aging and Chronic Disease Management: Part III is a course where learners will continue to explore age-related changes and commonly occurring diseases. Using theories for promoting wellness in older adults, learners will identify cumulative risk factors for onset of disease and/or disability and potential negative functional consequences. Learners will also explore the pharmacological and interprofessional approach to disease management and health promotion.
GNUR542 - Clinical Skills and the Older Adult
GNUR 542 Clinical Skills and the Older Adult will facilitate the consolidation and application of nursing concepts, knowledge, and skills introduced throughout the program. Participants will have the opportunity to practice relevant psychomotor and interpersonal skills associated with the care of older adults with complex health challenges. Assessments will focus on skill proficiency, documentation, and relational practice competency.
GNUR545 - Nursing Registration Readiness II
*(Please note that this is not an inclusive Nursing Community Assessment Service (NCAS) preparation course and therefore, does not cover all age groups or health issues covered in the NCAS OSCEs).
GNUR 545 Nursing Registration Readiness II provides an opportunity for learners to apply and consolidate nursing knowledge and skills into simulated scenarios. The virtual simulations and hands-on interactive lab setting will assist learners in putting theory into practice in partial preparation for the NCAS objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and/or completing the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) gerontological nursing certificate, if desired. Scenarios will be based on the NCAS blueprints related to older adults which are aligned with the Canadian Gerontological Nursing Association (CGNA), BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), and Canadian Association Schools of Nursing (CASN) competencies for nurse’s working with this population. Areas of focus include: knowledge-based practice (assessment, planning, provision of care, evaluation); accountability, responsibility and ethical behaviour; collaborative practice; and therapeutic relationships. This course builds on GNUR 535 and will provide further registration readiness support in a number of critical gerontological nursing skills and competencies.
GNUR548 - Nursing Practice in Multiple Clinical Settings
GNUR 548 Nursing Practice in Multiple Clinical Settings provides opportunities for learners to experience the various roles and responsibilities of nurses and other allied health professionals working with older adults in a variety of care delivery and community settings. Learners will have the opportunity to explore the mission, vision, values, and roles and responsibilities of community resources serving older adults, work as part of various interdisciplinary teams, collaborate with, and learn from, various service providers, and engage in health education, health promotion, injury prevention, and other evidence-based practice initiatives. Learners will also focus on consolidating basic and gerontological nursing competencies in a clinical setting.
Tuition & Fees
All amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Tuition amounts are based on a full-time course load. Please note that many programs have additional costs beyond those listed here. For more information, please visit Tuition & Fees.
Policy
Effective Term:
FallEffective Year:
20240801Advanced Standing:
ADVANCE OR TRANSFER CREDIT AND PRIOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT
1. A student may obtain credit for a maximum of 75% of program requirements by Transfer Credit, Advanced Placement, Prior Learning Assessment or combination thereof.
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Re-Entry Instructions:
1. Readmission to the program is permitted only when seats become available; there may be no opportunity provided to students to re-enter the program.
2. Students who fail to complete a semester successfully may apply to re-enter in the program and repeat the incomplete semester when it is next offered. Normally, there is a waiting period of 12 months between offerings of the same course or semester.
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Assessment:
Grading
The Standard Academic Grading Table will be used for all theory courses and the Competency Grading Table will be used for all lab skills and practice courses See Policy 8612: Grading.
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Grading Table:
Other
Types of Assessments:
1. Assessments
a) In the theory courses assessments may include written assignments, group projects, presentations, examinations or quizzes; details will be specified in course outlines.
b) In lab skills courses, assessments will include use of simulation, performance testing of relational and psychomotor competencies, and written tests or quizzes; details of testing will be specified in each course outline.
c) In practicum courses, assessment occurs on a continual basis and formal written performance appraisals will be given using an instrument which is based on the stated performance criteria of the course for which the appraisal is being done. Student performance during practice courses will be assessed as satisfactory, needs improvement, or unsatisfactory. Students whose performance is assessed as needing improvement will be placed on a learning plan.
Students whose performance is assessed as unsatisfactory will be placed on practice probation.
d) It is an expectation that students will submit all written assignments on the date stated in the course outline and by the instructor. When a student is unable to meet the stated deadline for an assignment, she or he must notify the instructor prior to the published due date and request an extension. In the event of extenuating circumstances, extensions are granted at the discretion of the instructor in consultation with the individual student. Extensions will be recorded for future reference.
e) Five percent (5%) of the total value of the assignment will be deducted for each calendar day for non-negotiated late assignments.
2. Supplemental Assessment(s)
a) Under extraordinary circumstances, a supplemental assessment (for final exam only) may be granted following consultation among Faculty and the School Chair. Students must have maintained an average grade of 70% or better in that specific course throughout the semester.
b) The result of the supplemental assessment will replace that of the final examination in calculation of the final grade. The student must achieve 70% or better on the supplemental exam in order to pass the course. The final grade for the course can be improved to a 70% grade only.
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Attendance:
Mandatory for all learning experiences.
1. Students are required to inform instructors that they will be absent and are responsible for the work they have missed.
2. Absence from learning experiences, for any reason, may preclude the student being able to meet the requirements for that course and in turn progression to the next semester.
3. Absence from practice without notification or for reasons that are not deemed professional (i.e.
vacation personal choice) will be noted as “unsatisfactory” or “needs improvement” in the Practice Appraisal Form.
4. Students missing more than 10% of the practice experience may be required to repeat the course or complete extra hours at an additional cost to the student. The College cannot guarantee the provision of such make-up hours to the student.
5. Students claiming illness or compassionate reasons for absence from any learning experience must contact the associated instructor and / or the practice agency directly at least one hour prior to the scheduled start time.
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Professional Requirements:
Students must meet the standards for nursing practice as outlined in the CRNBC's Professional Standards for Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners (2012). The four standards are:
1. Professional Responsibility and Accountability
2. Knowledge-Based Practice
3. Client-Focused Provision of Care
4. Ethical Practice
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Other Regulations:
PROBATION
See College Policy 8619 – Student Probation
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H
Health Care Assistant - Diploma
Overview
This two-year diploma program for international students is a comprehensive program designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of health care and community support.
Tailored to meet the unique needs of international students, this program combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experiences to foster a holistic understanding of health care practices and community engagement. Participants will gain expertise in providing assistance to individuals in various health care settings, including long-term care facilities and community organizations.
The curriculum emphasizes cultural competence and an understanding of diverse health care systems, preparing students to thrive in multicultural environments. Graduates of this program emerge with the necessary qualifications and confidence to contribute positively to health care and community support services.
*This program may be eligible for the post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
English Language Requirements
Applicants for whom English is a second language are required to demonstrate proficiency in English as outlined by the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry, including standardized proficiency assessments and required scores in all four language skills areas: speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Minimum Program Entry Requirements
Special Costs and Travel
Students are required to have uniforms and footwear that comply with WorkSafeBC standards. This can be purchased after arrival in Canada. In addition, students must be prepared to travel to clinical practice agencies. Access to a reliable vehicle is necessary. Students are required to possess a valid BC driver’s license by the start of HCA 107.
Clinical and practicum placements are arranged on the basis of student learning needs and available learning experiences. It is not possible to comply with the personal and travel requirements of individual students.
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
1. Provide person‐centred care and assistance that recognizes and respects the uniqueness of each individual client
2. Use an informed problem‐solving approach to provide care and assistance that promotes the physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and spiritual health and well‐being of clients and families
3. Provide person‐centred care and assistance for clients experiencing complex health challenges
4. Provide person‐centred care and assistance for clients experiencing cognitive and/or mental health challenges
5. Interact with other members of the health care team in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals
6. Communicate clearly, accurately, and sensitively with clients and families in a variety of community and facility contexts
7. Provide personal care and assistance in a safe, competent, and organized manner
8. Recognize and respond to own self‐development, learning, and health enhancement needs
9. Perform the care provider role in a reflective, responsible, accountable, and professional manner
Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the general admission requirements to Selkirk College, the applicant must meet the following Health Care Assistant Program requirements to be considered qualified for conditional acceptance and receive a seat offer:
a) Proof of Grade 12 completion
b) Proof of meeting HCA Program Entry English Language Competency Requirements
(i) For applicants with proof of three years of full-time instruction in English* they must also provide proof of one of the following:
(a) English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12 with 60% or higher or acceptable equivalent high school course.
(b) Completion of college courses determined to be equivalent to English 12 at 60% or higher.
(ii) For applicants with less than three years of full-time instruction in English*: Standardized English language proficiency test score as described below:
Applicants who cannot provide evidence of three years of full-time instruction in English are required to provide proof of one of the following standardized proficiency tests from an authorized assessment agency. a) Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Test (CLBPT) or CLBPT Remote. 8 Test in the last year. Listening 7, Speaking 7, Reading 6 and Writing 6. b) Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP General or CELPIP Online). Test in the last two years. Listening 7, Speaking 7, Reading 6 and Writing 6. c) International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic, IELTS General or IELTS Academic Online). Test in the last two years. Overall score of 6 with a minimum of 6 in Speaking and Listening and no score lower than 5.5 in Reading and Writing. d) Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL or CAEL Online). Test in the last two years. Overall Score of 60, with no section less than 50. e) The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition). Test in the last two years. Overall score of 76 with no score lower than 20 in Speaking and Listening and no score lower than 18 in Reading and Writing.
*Defined as three (3) years of full-time secondary and/or post-secondary education at a recognized institution on the list of Approved English-Speaking Countries. Secondary education will be considered starting from grade 8. English as a Second Language (ESL) courses will not be considered.
All applicants must submit:
- Completed HCA program application form
- Completed computer knowledge self-assessment form. To be successful in coursework and support job readiness, students need to possess basic computer skills including navigation of the internet, file management, accessing online information, email, and word processing.
- Three completed personal references from counsellors, employers, instructors, or supervisors.
- Official transcripts of all secondary and post-secondary education; an interim transcript statement is acceptable if the applicant is currently taking a prerequisite.
- Domestic students must submit a Criminal Record Check (CRC) clearance letter by the Criminal Record Check from the Criminal Records Review Program, including clearance to work with vulnerable adults.
- International students must submit a clear police certificate from the country of origin prior to acceptance given that HCA students provide care to vulnerable clients within the practice education portion of the program. To avoid potential hardship for students arriving from another country, the police certificate is an admission requirement. For further information, see information provided at: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/medical-police/policecertificates/how.html
A. PRE-PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS
Evidence of completion of the following must be submitted to the Admissions office or program designate prior to the first practice education experience. All Evidence must be current and valid.
a) First Aid Certification
b) CPR Level "C" Certification or "Basic Life Support (BLS)" Certification
c) Foodsafe Level 1 Certification (or a certificate course deemed equivalent
d) Completion of the Student Practice Education Core Orientation (SPECO) checklist including Provincial Violence E Modules, WHMIS, HCA Practice in BC and Recognizing and Responding to Adult Abuse Course
e) Completion of the Selkirk College Health & Human Services immunization form
f) Completion of the HCA Practice in BC and Recognizing and Responding to Adult Abuse Learning Hub modules/courses
PROMOTION
- Promotion to Semester 2 requires satisfactory completion of all courses in Semester 1. Semester 3 requires satisfactory completion of all courses in Semester 2, Semester 4 requires satisfactory completion of all courses in Semester 3.
Courses
ENGL110 - College Composition
ENGL 110 introduces students to the world of scholarly writing -- reading it, thinking about it, and producing it as academic researchers. Students will explore how professional and/or academic writers across disciplines communicate to a variety of audiences. Students will practice active reading, writing and critical thinking skills by conducting scholarly research on a topic. This course aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to write effectively within academic contexts.
EASL066 - College Preparation - Research Writing
EASL 066 College Preparation - Research Writing is an advanced writing course that focuses on various forms of writing that can be found in the academic and the work world. In addition to formal academic research techniques, this course will also explore practical technical writing skills needed for clear, timely, concise and accurate communication. The writer must focus on the purpose and audience as well as the form, style and organization. In this class, students will produce a variety of practical and academic forms of writing, including correspondence, summaries, instructions, proposals, reports etc.
HCA100 - Program Foundations
HCA 100 Program Foundations introduces learners to the Health Care Assistant Program structure and how to navigate the learning management system and other pieces of technology utilized in the program. An overview of the curriculum, teaching and learning approaches and strategies are introduced and discussed. Students are introduced to the function of the BC Care Aid and Community Support Worker Registry and supported by instructors in learning threshold concepts to prepare them for the course requirements.
HCA101 - Concepts for Practice
HCA 101 Concepts for Practice provides students with the opportunity to develop a theoretical framework for practice. Students will be introduced to the philosophical values and theoretical understandings that provide a foundation for competent practice as an HCA. The course focuses on concepts of caring and person-centred care; basic human needs and human development; and family, culture, and diversity as they relate to health and healing. Students will also be introduced to a problem-solving model that will be critical to their practice.
HCA102 - Introduction to Practice
HCA 102 Introduction to Practice provides an introduction to the role of the HCA within the British Columbia health care system. Students will be introduced to the health care team and the roles and functions of HCAs within the team. Students will also have opportunities to develop self-reflective skills required for competent practice and will be introduced to effective job-finding approaches.
HCA103 - Interpersonal Communications
HCA 103 Interpersonal Communication focuses on the development of self-awareness, increased understanding of others, and development of effective interpersonal communication skills that can be used in a variety of caregiving contexts. Students will be encouraged to become more aware of the impact of their own communication choices and patterns. They will have opportunities to develop and use communication techniques that demonstrate personal awareness, respect, and active listening skills.
HCA104 - Lifestyle and Choices
HCA 104 Lifestyles and Choices introduces students to a holistic concept of health and the components of a health- enhancing lifestyle. Students will be invited to reflect on their own experience of health, recognizing challenges and resources that can impact lifestyle choices. Students will be introduced to a model that can be applied in other courses to understand the multi-faceted aspects of health and healing.
EACS155 - Foundations Of Practice
EACS 155 Foundations of Practice introduces students to the theory and philosophical perspectives necessary for working with individuals who are challenged by a disabling condition. Values regarding service delivery are explored through an historical review of the disability movement and an examination of new initiatives and trends. This course also examines the role of unions, advocacy and policy and procedures in support services and introduces students to professionals from various professional infrastructure sectors including licensing and ministry personnel. Through personal reflection and research, the roots of person centered support will be explored and students will develop their own personal and professional philosophy of support work.
HCA105 - Common Health Challenges
HCA 105 Common Health Challenges introduces students to the normal structure and function of the human body and normal bodily changes associated with aging. Students will explore common challenges to health and healing in relation to each body system. Students will also be encouraged to explore person- centred practice as it relates to the common challenges to health and, in particular, to end-of-life care.
HCA106 - Cognitive and/or Mental Health Challenges
HCA 106 Cognitive and/or Mental Health Challenges builds on content from other courses to assist students to explore concepts and caregiving approaches that will allow them to work effectively with individuals experiencing cognitive and/or mental health challenges. The emphasis in this course is on supporting clients with dementia, recognizing responsive behaviours, and identifying person-centred intervention strategies.
EACS170 - Augmentative Communication
EACS 170 Augmentative Communication explores the alternative forms of communications for people with little or no speech. Non-speech communication programming is examined through review of normal and disordered language and the strengths and weaknesses of various augmentative communication systems. Communication systems studied include sign language and other manual systems, pictogram/ideogram communication and electronic systems.
HCA107 - Personal Care and Assistance
HCA 107 Personal Care and Assistance is a practical course that offers students the opportunity to acquire personal care and assistance skills within the parameters of the HCA role. The course comprises class and supervised laboratory experiences, which assist the student to integrate theory from other courses to develop caregiver skills that maintain and promote the comfort, safety, and independence of clients in community and facility contexts.
HCA108 - Practice Experience in Home Support, Assisted Living, and/or Group Home Setting
HCA 108 Practice Experience in Home Support, Assisted Living, and/or Group Home Setting is a practice course that provides students with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills from all other courses with individuals and families in a community setting. Opportunity will be provided for students to become more familiar with the role of the HCA within a home support agency, assisted living facility, or a group home to gain abilities that will prepare graduates for employment in these settings. It is important that students understand the philosophy of community care settings and the importance of client choice and independence.
HCA109 - Practice Experience in Multi-Level and/or Complex Care
HCA 109 Practice Experience in Multi-Level and/or Complex Care is a supervised practice experience provides students with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills from all other courses in the program with individuals in a multi-level or complex care setting. A portion of this clinical experience will be devoted to working with individuals with dementia. Opportunity will be provided for students to gain expertise and confidence with the role of the HCA within a complex care facility.
EACS156 - Support Strategies
EACS 156 Support Strategies focuses on support strategies used with individuals who have disabilities. The analysis and understanding of behaviour as a means of communication is explored. Strategies are learned and practiced in context to support individuals with the development of pro-social skills, life, vocational, and academic skills. An awareness of issues related to healthy sexuality and the ethics of touch are explored. Emphasis is placed on the ethics of support work and effective implementation of strategies to support individuals with disabilities to be as independent as possible.
EACS161 - Person-Centred Planning
EACS 161 Person-Centered Planning focuses on the need for planning, advantages and disadvantages of planning and the key elements of the planning process. The course examines how to identify and obtain information relevant to planning, formulation of long and short-term objectives, prioritization of objectives, and translation of objectives into action. Emphasis is placed on viewing, planning as a dynamic process, and analysis of human interaction as part of the planning process. Models for structuring positive interaction of all planning team members are reviewed.
EACS165 - Health and Wellness
EACS 165 Health and Wellness is designed to introduce the essential concepts of health and wellness with emphasis on six dimensions of wellness including: emotional, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, social and physical. Students will examine health and wellness from two perspectives. The first includes the examination of wellness in the students' lives with emphasis on developing strategies to increase resiliency and well being in the work place. The second dimension will focus on ways in which the wellness of others can be enhanced in a respectful, person-centred way that values personal choice and preferences. The course will emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes being self-directed and on understanding ways in which we can support change in others and ourselves. Lecture, interactive exercises and group discussions will be used to explore a variety of topics including: stress management, diet and nutrition, ageing, intimacy and relationships, immunity, safety, lifestyle, developing relationships and quality of life. The importance of professional accountability and authenticity in supporting the wellness of others will be emphasized.
FAM180 - Family Dynamics
FAM 180 Family Dynamics is designed to provide students with a variety of theoretical perspectives to understanding families. It considers the diversity of families through the lenses of the life course perspective and political policies. Family formation, parenting, separation and divorce and aging are all examined. Family issues are also considered, including marriage and death rituals, work and poverty, same sex relationships, disabilities and immigrants. Policies that affect families are explored through an examination of violence in the family and political trends. The course is intended to be a foundation for further study of families.
HSER174 - Interpersonal Communications
HSER 174 Interpersonal Communications provides the student with an opportunity to examine personal goals, values and attitudes; develop and practice listening and responding skills, and become more aware of personal strengths and limitations. This course is designed to help students gain self-understanding in order to be more effective in working with people.
Policy
Effective Term:
FallEffective Year:
20240801Advanced Standing:
- Advance or Transfer Credit and Prior Learning Assessment
- A student may obtain credit for a maximum of 75% of program requirements by Transfer Credit, Advanced Placement, Prior Learning Assessment or combination thereof. See Policy 8614: Advanced Standing - Course Challenge, PLA, and Transfer Credit.
Re-Entry Instructions:
- Students in good standing who are required to withdraw for personal or compassionate reasons may apply for re-entry the next time the program is offered; admission is subject to seat availability.
- Students must complete the entire program within 48 calendar months of initial entry. Re-entry applicants who cannot meet this deadline will not be readmitted.
- As per the BC Care Aid & Community Support Worker Registry, no more than 3 months may elapse between the completion of lab skills coursework and the start of practice education. In cases where there is a period of more than 3 months, students would be required to re-take the HCA 107: Personal Care & Assistance course (i.e., in cases of leaves of absence, part-time students, etc.)
Assessment:
- Grading
- The Standard Academic and Career Grading Table is used for EASL 066 or ENGL 110, HCA 101, 102, 103, 104, 105,106, 107, EACS 155, 170, 156, 161, 165, FAM 180, and HSER 174.
- The Competency Based Grading Table is used for HCA 100, 108 and 109.
- To pass each of the following courses, students need to earn a minimum grade of 70%: HCA 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107
- To pass each of the following courses students need to earn a minimum grade of 60%: ENG 110, EASL 066, EACS 155, 156, 161, 165, 170, FAM 180 and HSER 174.
- In HCA 107, students must demonstrate competence in psychomotor skills in order to pass HCA 107 and progress to practice education courses. If a student is not successful in demonstrating competency upon the first attempt, they may attempt the skills test one additional time after individual remediation. If a student is unsuccessful on the second attempt, they are not eligible to pass HCA 107 and will be required to repeat this course.
- To receive credit in HCA 108 and HCA 109, students must demonstrate competency in the program outcomes identified on page 1 of this document and complete scheduled practicum shifts according to the requirement of the HCA Program Provincial Curriculum (2023).
Grading Table:
Other
Types of Assessments:
- Assessments may include written papers, small group projects and presentations, debate, case study, online and in person discussions/forums, in person and recorded or virtual simulation and/or psychomotor skill testing.
- Quizzes are completed online within the learning management system, LEARN, within the time frame as described in the course outline calendar. Students may have two attempts at each quiz with the highest mark being recorded in the gradebook.
- The Practice Appraisal Form (PAF) is an assessment document used in practice courses and is based on the HCA Program Learning Outcomes and their associated indicators. The PAF is used to provide an opportunity for student self-reflection, formal instructor feedback and guides the student and instructor in the collaboration of a student learning plan for success.
- Supplemental Assessment(s)
- A student may request a supplemental assessment if they earn under 70% on an assignment and they follow the guidelines below:
- Within 48 hours after the instructor posts marks, the student will provide the instructor with an email request, identifying the assignment they would like to redo.
- Applications for supplemental assessments are approved at the discretion of the instructor in consultation with the Program Coordinator and/or School Chair.
- Students must have maintained an average grade of 70% or better in the course.
- The result of the supplemental assessment cannot exceed 70% and is used in calculation of the final grade.
- Supplemental assessments must be written within seven calendar days of the final examination schedule.
- A student may request a supplemental assessment if they earn under 70% on an assignment and they follow the guidelines below:
Attendance:
- Student attendance in class supports their progression toward meeting the course learning outcomes and contributes to the learning community as a whole. They will gain valuable insights and opportunities that would not be possible without the conversations and activities they will participate in. If a student finds themselves in a situation where they aren't able to get to class or will be late, they will need to contact the relevant instructor so that they can collaborate on a plan for continued student success. When students miss class, the chances of successfully meeting the learning outcomes may be reduced and/or prevent the student from passing the class.
- Students absent from any class or learning experience, for any reason, are responsible for the course material they have missed. As part of the plan for success, they may be required to make up missed assignments, activities, lab and/or practice education hours to successfully meet the learning outcomes. Absence from learning experiences may impact the student’s ability to meet the learning outcomes for that course and in turn, progression to the next semester.
- If 2 or more classes are missed, the relevant instructor will check in with the student to ensure they are set up with appropriate resources and to collaborate on a plan for success. Plans will be documented on record of advisement and/or learning plan forms.
- Written and competency/skill-based assessment schedules are shared with students at the beginning of the course in order for students to plan and organize themselves accordingly. If a student is absent from a written or competency/skill-based assessment for reasonable cause (e.g., illness, family emergency, adverse weather conditions, etc.), they may contact their instructor to determine if they are eligible to make-up the assessment at another time (please check the course outline for specific details). A physician's note for illness, or a note substantiating the family emergency, may be required prior to assess eligibility.
- A student who must be absent from a practice or simulated learning experience must notify the instructor at least one hour prior to the experience's scheduled time. Missed hours may be rescheduled if learning outcomes are not being met and/or if the student has exceeded the allowable absences as described in course outlines. Absence for reasons that are not deemed professional (i.e., vacation, personal choice) will be noted as "unsatisfactory" or "needs improvement" in the Practice Appraisal Form. Students missing more than 10% of a practice experience may be required to repeat the course or complete extra hours at an additional cost to the student.
- The School of Health and Human Services cannot undertake to provide substitute or "make up" learning experiences outside of regularly scheduled practice education courses when students have been absent, for any reason.
Professional Requirements:
- Students in the Health Care Assistant Diploma program shall:
- Acknowledge that Indigenous specific racism and colonialism exist and that students will integrate trauma-informed practice and work towards reconciliation of Indigenous health and wellness. (See also In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous- specific Racism and Discrimination in BC Health Care, 2020).
- Conduct themselves in an informed way to be inclusive, culturally safe, and always striving towards cultural humility. (See also Selkirk College Policy 6040: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity).
Other Regulations:
- Required Withdrawal (See Selkirk College Policy 3400 Student Code of Conduct)
- Breaches in confidentiality are grounds for dismissal from the HCA program.
- Students who compromise the safety of clients in practice courses will be required to withdraw from the HCA program.
- Probation (See Policy 8619 Student Probation and Policy 3400 Student Code of Conduct)
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Mental Health and Addictions - Associate Certificate
Overview
If you are already studying or working in the human service or health care fields, you can earn an associate certificate in Mental Health and Addictions to take your career to a new level. Focused on the specific needs of clients coping with mental health and substance use challenges, you’ll be ready for a variety of workplace settings and challenges.
In this program, you will complete two online courses that examine current research about the causes and treatment of mental health and substance use challenges for marginalized populations and participate in a two-day experiential workshop focused on motivational interviewing skills.
This certificate is designed for those who wish to focus their practice in the area of mental health and addictions and may be of interest to:
- Human Services students
- Human Services workers
- Degree holders looking for work-related skills and/or credentials
- Nurses wishing to practice in the area of Mental Health and Addictions
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate professionalism in practice consistent with the code of ethics and standards of practice of their respective disciplines
- Use effective interpersonal skills, including active listening, collaboration, self-awareness and conflict resolution within multi-faceted roles and contexts
- Understand and respect cultural differences and multiple ways of knowing
- Practice from an ethic of inclusivity
- Establish and maintain wellness strategies to assure work/life balance both personally and professionally
- Engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and reflective practice
Admission Requirements
Completion of the Health and Human Services diploma or two years of a relevant program; or completion of a certificate program in Health and Human Services or relevant field and two years of experience in the field; or five years of experience in the Health and Human Services field and permission from the instructor and chair of Health and Human Services.
- English Studies 12 or equivalent, with a minimum of 60% or higher
The below listed documents need to be submitted to apply for this program.
If the admission requirement for the certificate or diploma was completed at Selkirk College, the below information is not required.
- A letter from the applicant’s employer stating their position and employment history
- Resumé
- Official copy of secondary and post-secondary transcripts
- Two letters of reference
APPLICATION PROCESS
1. CERTIFICATE, ADVANCED CERTIFICATE& DIPLOMA PROGRAMS
Students applying to the diploma program immediately following completion of a Human Services Certificate Program, may request that the contents of their file be transferred.
2. PART-TIME STUDIES IN HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAMS
a) Acceptance to an individual course does not constitute admission to the program. All program admissions will be considered according to Part I, A: Admissions Requirements.
b) The ECCE, EACSW, SSW Certificate programs and the Human Services Diploma program may be completed on a part-time basis depending on number of spaces available. Students choosing to complete a program on a part time basis must meet with a program coordinator, councillor and/or School Chair at the time of acceptance to plan a course of studies.
c) Students who have been accepted for part time studies and are in good standing academically will normally be accepted upon re-application to the next term. Refer to Part II, Section B, Promotions re: academic requirements.
In order to receive your credential in your program, you must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00 and a grade of a “C” or better in all semester courses.
In order to graduate with Honors students must meet all program requirements with no grades less than a B- and a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Courses
ADD384 - Addictions Theory and Practice
ADD 384 Addictions Theory and Practice is designed to provide students with an overview of current and emerging research/expertise in the field. The course will cover diverse definitions and understandings of addiction, as informed by current findings in the fields of neuroscience and social science. Pharmacology basics and the biological, psychological, social, spiritual and environmental dimensions of addiction will be reviewed from a number of perspectives. Current research on attachment, trauma and brain development will be examined in relation to addiction from both developmental and environmental perspectives. A critical examination of the link between policy and practice provides context for the emergence of recovery strategies such as harm reduction and motivational techniques. Special attention will be given to the role of colonization and stigma as it is experienced through ethnicity, gender and culture, and the important role of advocacy in this context.
HSER257 - Mental Health Issues: Practical Responses
HSER 257 Mental Health Issues: Practical Responses provides instruction in a variety of rehabilitative and treatment modalities used in work with individuals facing mental health challenges. Attitudes toward mental health and substance use problems and how they impact helper effectiveness are explored in a supportive milieu. Evidence-based practices such as Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Harm Reduction are used as frameworks for the development of skills and knowledge. Students are introduced to strategies for overcoming stigma and supporting client empowerment in a variety of community and facility settings.
HSER600 - Motivational Interviewing - Brief Interventions and Support Strategies Workshop
HSER 600 Motivational Interviewing - Brief Interventions and Support Strategies. This 12-hour lecture format exponential workshop is designed to provide practitioners and students with basic Motivational Interviewing Skills in order to enhance the effectiveness of their work with both mental health, addiction and concurrent conditions in a variety of settings. Motivational Interviewing is a directive, clients centered counseling style for eliciting behaviour change by helping clients to explore and resolve ambivalence. It is both client-centered and goal-directed, and complements most theoretical approaches and styles in the helping professions.
Tuition & Fees
All amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Tuition amounts are based on a full-time course load. Please note that many programs have additional costs beyond those listed here. For more information, please visit Tuition & Fees.
Policy
Effective Term:
FallEffective Year:
20240801Advanced Standing:
- Advance or Transfer Credit
- Transfer credit will be given for university transfer courses equivalent to Selkirk College courses, providing a grade of "C" or better was achieved.
- Applications for transfer credit from other ECCE, SSW or EACSW programs will be reviewed with provincial articulation agreements and considered on an individual basis; applicants may be required to provide detailed course outlines.
- Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
- Advance credit in core program courses (i.e., SSW, ECCE, EACSW and HSER) may be granted by the School Chair or designate after evaluation of the applicant’s mastery of course objectives. See program specific guidelines for PLA.
- Credit for Final Practicum will not be awarded through PLA in Human Services programs.
Re-Entry Instructions:
- An application is required for enrolment in program courses in subsequent years.
- Normally, students who must interrupt their program may apply for re-admission, within one year of departure, on the basis of the following priorities:
- Students in good standing who interrupted their program for illness or other personal reasons.
- Students who failed to meet program requirements for promotion.
- Students transferring from another program within BC.
- Students who fail to complete a semester successfully may apply to re-enter and repeat the incomplete semester when it is next offered. (Normally, there is a period of 12 months between offerings of a course or semester.)
- Normally, a student returning in one year or less will retain full credit for all courses previously completed. After more than one year's absence, students may be required to update or repeat courses previously completed. A grade of "C" or credit granted in each repeated course is required for re-entry.
- Students who withdraw for medical or psychological reasons will provide evidence to the School Chair from a licensed practitioner regarding the suitability of his/her return to the program.
- Students must complete the program in its entirety within 60 calendar months from the time of initial entry into the program.
- Students who have successfully completed their Selkirk College Human Services certificate within the previous year are considered to be a re-entry student.
- Re-entry full-time students who have successfully completed their previous year are given priority over part time students.
Assessment:
- Grading for theory courses will be as per the Standard Academic and Career Grading Table as defined in Selkirk College Policy 8612 Grading. Grading for practicum courses will be as per the Competency Based Grades as defined in Selkirk College Policy 8612 Grading.
Grading Table:
Other
Program Specific Regulations:
Attendance:
- Students absent for 20% or more in a given course may be placed on behavioural probation. If a student arrives more than 10 minutes late or leaves more than 10 minutes early, they may be recorded as absent.
- Students absent from any courses are responsible for the work they have missed and must make up assignments as required.
- Students are responsible to inform the instructor in advance of any absences.
- Students participating in on-line classes are expected to access and read all materials posted on their course site. If any aspect of the course has not been opened and/or participated in the student will be considered absent for that class.
Assignments:
- A minimum of three evaluative events will occur as specified in course outlines.
- Students are evaluated and graded in each subject or course topic as indicated in the respective course outline.
- Assignments are due on the date stated on course or assignment outlines. A student may request one extension per course. The request must be made in writing no less than 24 hours before the due date. If the instructor grants permission for the extension the revised due date will be determined by the instructor.
- Under extenuating circumstances further requests for extensions may be granted only after the student has participated in a mandatory consultation with the Department Head of Student Access and Support or designate and has presented the instructor with a written plan outlining how they intend to complete their work in a timely manner.
- A penalty of 10% per day will be assessed against late assignments. All assignments must be handed in by the last day of classes in order to achieve a passing grade and advance to the practicum.
- All course assignments must be completed to achieve a passing grade.
- All assignments must be typed.
- Students may, at the discretion of the instructor, rewrite a maximum of one assignment per course. Rewrites must be submitted for marking within 14 calendar days of the return of the original assignment to the student. Rewritten assignments will receive a maximum grade of 75%.
- Students are expected to write tests on the designated dates. If, for legitimate absences, the student misses a test, he/she must write the test as soon as possible with the permission of the instructor.
- Examinations
- Exams, labs, projects, assignments, and other evaluative activities are weighted and averaged as indicated in the respective course outline.
- No single evaluative event shall be worth more than 50% of the final grade.
- For courses involving practicum placements (ECCE 195, 286, 292, 294; SSW 163, 168; EASC 195, 196; HSER 270, 280) evaluation occurs on a continuous basis and graded CRG or NCG as per the Competency Based Selkirk Grading Table in Selkirk College Policy 8612 Grading. All practicum activities may be considered evaluative events. Informal verbal and/or written feedback is regularly provided by the instructor and practicum supervisors. Depending on the length of the course there may be one or more performance appraisals or evaluations.
Professional Requirements:
- Codes of Ethics and Competencies
- Students are expected to know, understand and abide by the applicable Codes of Ethics:
- Child and Youth Care Worker;
- Social Service Worker;
- Early Childhood Educator.
- Education Assistant & Community Support Worker.
- Students are expected to know, understand and abide by the applicable Codes of Ethics:
- Guidelines for Professional Conduct
- In addition students are expected to consistently demonstrate professional conduct based on the following guidelines:
- exercise personal discipline, accountability and judgement,
- accept personal responsibility for continued competency and learning,
- assist and serve the public, client or patient and place them before oneself,
- recognize the dignity and worth of all persons in any level of society,
- assist others in learning,
- recognize one’s own limitations and areas for development, and
- maintain confidentiality of information appropriate to the purpose and trust given when that information is acquired.
- Professional Conduct will be measured by: one’s professional abilities, personal integrity, and the attitude one demonstrates in relationship with others.
- Students who violate these professional standards may be required to withdraw from their Program.
- Students may be required to withdraw when ethical, medical or other reasons interfere with the satisfactory completion of their Program.
- In addition students are expected to consistently demonstrate professional conduct based on the following guidelines: