COURSE CURRICULUM

The Child and Youth Care degree program follows a structured eight-semester curriculum designed to build foundational knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies. In the first year, students complete introductory courses such as CYC 101 (Intro to Child and Youth Care), PSY 102 (Introduction to Psychology I), and SOC 105 (Introduction to Sociology), alongside liberal studies and courses like CYC 102 (Ready for Practice) and PSY 302 (Child Development). The second year deepens the practical and theoretical understanding with courses like CYC 301 (Interpersonal Communications), CYC 302 (Therapeutic Recreational Programming), and CYC 303 (Internship I), as well as CYC 402 (Group Work with Children and Youth). In either the third or fourth semester, students also take CYC 347 (Professional Issues), CYC 405 (Therapeutic Foundations), and CYC 409 (Social Research and Evaluation I), along with additional liberal studies. The fifth and sixth semesters focus on advanced topics such as children’s rights, diversity, therapeutic assessment, advocacy, and intervention, complemented by social research and evaluation coursework, liberal studies, open electives, and one core elective from Table II. In the final year, students participate in a two-term internship (CYC 60A/B), undertake independent studies, and take specialized courses including trauma-informed practice, professional identity, and practice with families. The program combines classroom learning with experiential components, including local placements, to ensure students are ready for practice in a variety of child and youth care settings. Throughout all semesters, the inclusion of liberal studies, open electives, and core electives supports a well-rounded academic experience that promotes critical thinking, social awareness, and adaptability in the field. The curriculum also places strong emphasis on professional development, ethical practice, and advocacy to prepare graduates for meaningful careers supporting children and youth in diverse environments.