Certificate

6 Weeks

Acute Care for HCAs

Specialized training for healthcare assistants in acute care settings. Learn emergency response, patient mobility techniques, and advanced caregiving procedures.  

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Advance Your Skills in Acute Care

The Acute Care for HCAs program at Western Community College is designed for Health Care Assistants aiming to expand their competencies into acute care settings. It provides specialized knowledge in managing patients with complex health conditions, focusing on acute care procedures and protocols. The curriculum includes practical training, ensuring HCAs are well-prepared to meet the demands of acute healthcare environments. By enhancing their skill set, HCAs can contribute more effectively to patient care teams, addressing the needs of patients requiring immediate and intensive medical attention.

  • Focused training on acute care procedures and protocols.
  • Hands-on experience in acute healthcare environments. 
  • Improved competency in managing complex patient needs. ​ 

Next Intakes

Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.

Career Opportunities in Health Care

Expand their competencies into Acute Care

$25*

Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate

*Based on Canada Job Bank

The Health Care Assistant program at Western Community College is designed for students aiming to become certified Health Care Assistants (HCAs). HCAs are frontline care providers in a variety of institutional and community settings. 

  • Health Care Assistant: Provide personal care and support to clients.​ 
  • Community Health Worker: Assist clients in their homes with daily activities.​ 
  • Residential Care Aide: Support residents in long-term care facilities.​ 
  • Home Support Worker: Deliver in-home care services.
  • Assisted Living Worker: Assist residents in assisted living settings. 

Why Study at Western Community College

Western Community College offers students an inclusive and vibrant learning environment, with dedicated support services to ensure your academic success and personal well-being.

  • Installment-based, low tuition fee.
  • Choose weekday, weekend, or evening classes to fit your schedule.
  • Part-time or full-time class schedule.
  • Free CLB preparation classes (*Conditions Apply).

Begin Your Path in HEALTHCARE Career

Admission Requirements

Program Specific:

  • Health Care Assistant Certificate, or equivalent, from a BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry recognized educational institution: Educational institutions accepted as per the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry.
  • Current BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry number.
  • Standard First Aid and CPR
  • Current CPR level C or HCP certificate  

Upon Acceptance:

  • A Criminal Record Check (CRC) is required in accordance with the Criminal Records Review Act. All individuals who work with vulnerable adults and/or children must complete a Criminal Records Check through the Ministry of Justice.
  • Submission of a negative TB skin test. If the skin test is positive, proof of a negative TB Chest x-ray is required.
  • Immunizations in the following are strongly recommended, and may be required for practice placement in the program:
    • Diphtheria/Tetanus
    • Pertussis
    • Polio
    • Measles
    • Mumps
    • Rubella
    • Varicella (Chicken Pox)
    • Hepatitis B
    • Influenza (Flu vaccine) – required annually
    • COVID 19 vaccines

Apply Now

Take the next step toward your future!

Gain the skills you need for success and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Enroll today to learn essential industry knowledge, enhance your expertise, and open doors to new opportunities.

Apply Now

Course OUtline

Core Courses in HCA Program

Our curriculum is designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge required for a successful career as a Healthcare Assistant.

130

Total program
hours

40

Clinical Experience HOurs

$25

Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate

97%

Graduate Employment Rate

Course IDTitle of CourseHours
ACHA001Acute Care and Personal Assistance45
ACHA002Working in Acute Care45
ACHA003Acute Care Clinical40
 TOTAL HOURS130

Our Academic Partners

We collaborate with leading Legal profession courses to ensure our curriculum is relevant and up-to-date, providing our students with valuable insights and connections.

Our Partners

Fee Structure

Tuition & Financing


We offer competitive tuition rates and flexible financing options to make your education at Western Community College both accessible and affordable.

This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

Particulars (Expanded View)

Application Fee

$250

Tuition Fee

$3150

Course Materials

$75

Books

$175

Particulars (Expanded View)

Application Fee

$250

Tuition Fee

$3150

Course Materials

$75

Books

$175

Finance Options Available

Western Community College offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation.

BC Student Loan

In-house Financing

Student Line of Credit

Scholarships

Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.

Finance Options

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