Academic Calendar

Child and Youth Care


English language proficiency requirements

Students registering in post-secondary level courses (numbered 100 to 499) will be required to meet the English language entrance proficiency requirements. Students in ELS or the University Foundations programs can register in those courses identified in the University Foundations program with lower levels of language proficiency.


Please note that not all courses are offered every semester.

CYC 100

3 credits

Human Development I for Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care or permission of the department head.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course focuses on human growth and development from conception to age two. It considers the theories of change in cognitive, social, psychological, and physical domains during this period.

Note: Students with credit for ECE 100 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 101

3 credits

Introduction to Professional Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): None.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

An overview of the child and youth care field, including a survey of the history and role of the child and youth care practitioner across a
broad spectrum of settings.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 201 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 120

3 credits

Human Development II for Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in (CYC 100 or ECE 100), or permission of the department head.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

A continuation of CYC 100, focusing on human growth and development from age two to adulthood. The theories of change in cognitive, social, psychological, and physical domains during this period are considered, with an emphasis on current research.

Note: Students with credit for ECE 120 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 125

3 credits

Introduction to Activity-Based Child and Youth Practice

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care or permission of the department head.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

An introduction to the identification, adaptation, and use of arts, games, play, and nature-based experiences in CYC. Theoretical foundations, ethical considerations, and benefits of activity are explored along with aboriginal approaches and inclusionary practices for diverse groups.

CYC 167

3 credits

Introduction to Working with Individuals in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care or department head's permission.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course focuses on purposeful change in the lives of children and youth. Self-awareness, the importance and use of therapeutic relationships, the helping process model, and core communication skills are explored. Change theory, risk assessment, and crisis intervention are introduced.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 267 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 168

3 credits

Social Constructs of Families and Groups

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Focuses on how groups and families are constructed in Canadian society. Group, family, and community services will be explored in
context. Cycles of family violence will be explored.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 268 cannot take this course for further credit

CYC 202

3 credits

Indigenous Perspectives in Child and Youth Care Practice

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course provides Indigenous perspectives that are valuable to CYC practitioners in helping them gain a professional level of sensitivity in working with clients of Indigenous descent. Knowledge of Stó:lō history, culture, traditions/teachings, language, and current issues are shared from an Indigenous perspective.

CYC 203

3 credits

Perspectives on Mental Health and Substance Misuse

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Mental health care and addictions treatment fields are explored. Students will examine their own beliefs about mental health and engage in personal reflection on the role of addictive behaviour and the links with relationships and personal ecology.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 302 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 210

3 credits

Professional Practice Issues in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

CYC professional practice is explored within the contexts of ethics, cultural safety and responsiveness, decolonization, and social ustice. Includes skills for critical inquiry, observation, ethical decision making, communication and documentation, advocacy, and collaborative teamwork within child and youth care settings.

CYC 220

3 credits

Applying Change Theory in Child and Youth Care Practice

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Introduces theories of planned change within the context of key perspectives of CYC practice. Fundamental assumptions within each theory are critically examined for relevance with diverse populations, and students will discover their own approaches to intentional use of theory within a decolonized CYC praxis.

CYC 260

3 credits

Special Topics in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the CYC degree program or permission of department head

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course provides an opportunity to examine selected current issues in child and youth care.

Note: This course will be offered under different letter designations (e.g. C-Z) representing different topics. With approval of the department, this course may be taken more than once for credit.


CYC 270

3 credits

Expressive Therapies for Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101,(CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Five different expressive therapies, taught by five different practitioners in the field of CYC and including benefits of the five different therapies, will be shared. Play, Art, Outdoor, Horticulture, and Music, and a variety of techniques used in each of these areas will be explored and experienced by students.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 360N cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 275

3 credits

Wellness and Mindfulness-Based Practices

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Mindfulness-based activities are the foundation for this practical, experiential course. Step-by-step guidance and presentations are systematically utilized to introduce mindfulness-based stress reduction. Theoretical foundations and benefits are examined. Personal/professional practice is cultivated in the context of the helping professions.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 360O cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 280

3 credits

Introduction to Policy, Politics, and Practice in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): CYC 296

An examination of legislation and standards governing child, youth, and family services. Organizational systems of child welfare, Indigenous authorities, youth justice, and education are explored. Implications of social policy, social justice, and accountability are addressed.


CYC 296

3 credits

Inclusive Child and Youth Care Practice

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course provides students with ecological perspectives of the impact of disability on families. It considers approaches to meeting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development needs, and the greater implications related to culture, public policy, and social justice.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 496/SOWK 496 or ECE 213 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 310

6 credits

Supervised Practicum

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, CYC 202, CYC 203, CYC 220, CYC 275, CYC 210, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): CYC 320, CYC 340, CYC 367, and CYC 368.

Supervised practicum that requires students to work directly with children/youth in order to promote professional skill acquisition and integration. Emphasis is placed on observation and recording skills, understanding the structure and functioning of a service agency, and fostering an awareness of professional functioning in relation to children, youth, and agency workers. Attention will also be given to development of beginning-level case planning, intervention, and case presentation skills with both one-to-one and group focus.

Note: This course is offered either as CYC 310 or CYC 310A and CYC 310B. When run as a full year course, students must take both CYC 310A and CYC 310B in the same academic year to receive credit.

CYC 320

3 credits

Relational Case Planning in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of CYC 202, CYC 203, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course focuses on utilizing a reflective practice in assessment and planning processes in CYC. A relational, structural, and strengths-based approach to identifying needs and resources for children, youth, and families is presented. Collaborative and respectful practice is emphasized.

CYC 325

3 credits

Research Methods in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Within an applied research context, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to locate, understand, and utilize research relating to the field of CYC. This includes basic designs, Indigenous ways of knowing, and methodologies specific to qualitative and quantitative research models.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 423 cannot take this course for further credit

CYC 330

3 credits

Trauma-Informed Practice in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, CYC 168, CYC 202, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 203, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Explores knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to work with trauma in children, youth, communities, and families, from lenses of diverse, Indigenous, and Western knowledge systems. Students learn relational, strengths based, and culturally relevant interventions that promote resiliency and healing and that recognize the intersecting impacts of social location.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 360Q cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 340

3 credits

Developmental Theory in Child and Youth Care Practice

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, and C+ or better in each of CYC 202, CYC 203, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course focuses on the understanding of developmental theory, examining historical and contemporary theories and relevant implications in practice. The context of the ecological model is used as a unifying construct for considering all work with children, youth, and families.

CYC 360

3 credits

Special Topics in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the CYC degree program or permission of department head

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course provides an opportunity to examine selected current issues in child and youth care. With approval of the program head, this course may be taken more than once for credit.

CYC 367

3 credits

Advanced Skills with Individuals in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of CYC 202, CYC 203, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Through the development of skills in working with individual children and youth, students will apply behavioral change theories in a laboratory environment and receive feedback on their application of interventions in child and youth care practice.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 467 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 368

3 credits

Advanced Skills with Groups in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or higher in each of CYC 202, CYC 203, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Theoretical approaches and techniques related to the facilitation of groups for children, youth, and families are presented. Students apply theory through leading large and small groups, giving and receiving feedback on their work in a laboratory-style environment.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 468 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 380

3 credits

Child Protection Practice

Prerequisite(s): C+ or better in each of CYC 202, CYC 210, CYC 220, CYC 203, CYC 275, CYC 280, and CYC 296.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

The social, historical, political, and constitutional contexts in which the child protection system operates are examined. The statutory framework and practice skills of case consultation, investigative interviewing, preparing for court, providing evidence, and alternative dispute resolution are developed.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 360D cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 390

3 credits

Directed Studies in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the CYC degree program or permission of the program head

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course requires work in a specific area in child and youth care using research projects, directed readings, or additional course work.

CYC 395

3 credits

Developing Healthy Relationships in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, or department head’s
permission.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Addresses issues of safety in all human relations, and guides students in psychoeducational strategies to help young people to learn
how to choose friends, dates, and intimate partners, inclusive of diverse constructs of relationships.

CYC 402

3 credits

Community and Interdisciplinary Relations

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, CYC 310, CYC 320, CYC
330, CYC 340, CYC 367, and CYC 368.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Develops the knowledge and skills to facilitate collaborative interdisciplinary teamwork and community development/capacity building with diverse communities, including Indigenous populations. Through experiential activities, students will reflect on their own
experiences and professional/personal practices, as well as develop skills to enhance their leadership in creating collaborative and socially just environments.

CYC 410

6 credits

Advanced Practice in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of the following: CYC 310, CYC 320, CYC 325, CYC 330, CYC 340, CYC 367, and CYC 368.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): CYC 402, CYC 425, CYC 469, CYC 485, and CYC 499.

Supervised practicum focused on CYC practitioner identity and application of learning within a field experience. Students are placed in a milieu aligned with their practice interests, to apply CYC life space and planned interventions and evaluation skills at an advanced level. Professional collaboration, the integration of culturally relevant theory and practice, relational care, and social justice with diverse and Indigenous populations are emphasized.

Note: This course is offered either as CYC 410 or CYC 410A and CYC 410B. When run as a full year course, students must take both CYC 410A and CYC 410B in the same academic year to receive credit.

CYC 410B

3 credits

Advanced Practice in Child and Youth Care: Part II

Prerequisite(s): CYC 410A.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): CYC 402, CYC 425, CYC 469, CYC 485, and CYC 499.

Supervised practicum focused on CYC practitioner identity and application of learning within a field experience. Students are placed in a milieu aligned with their practice interests, to apply CYC life space and planned interventions and evaluation skills at an advanced level. Professional collaboration, the integration of culturally relevant theory and practice, relational care, and social justice with diverse and Indigenous populations are emphasized.

Note: This course is offered either as CYC 410 or CYC 410A and CYC 410B. When run as a full year course, students must take both CYC 410A and CYC 410B in the same academic year to receive credit.

CYC 411

6 credits

Supplemental Practicum in CYC

Prerequisite(s): Completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care or department head’s
permission.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This supplemental practicum is for students taking an additional CYC practicum as part of a post-degree option. It focuses on the application of learning. It provides an opportunity to apply case-planning, intervention, and evaluation skills at an advanced level. Professional consultation, clinical functioning, and the integration of theory and practice are emphasized.

CYC 425

3 credits

Data Analysis in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care or department head's permission.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Introduces students to data analysis in the CYC field, including theoretical approaches and practical perspectives. The value of Indigenous and diverse approaches are studied. Qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques are explored.

CYC 461

3 credits

Child Life and Community Health

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and (45 university-level credits or department head's permission).

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course is the foundation to child life practice in hospitals, and considers professional issues and theoretical perspective for practice.

Note: This course is dual-listed with CYC 761. Students with credit for CYC 360E or CYC 761 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 462

3 credits

Transitions: Working with Grief and Loss

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and (45 university-level credits or department head's permission).

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

All people experience grief and loss. Based on Indigenous ways of moving forward after these events, this curriculum provides students with knowledge of how to help children, youth, and families navigate these transitions while providing support for the journey.

Note: This course is dual-listed with CYC 762. Students with credit for CYC 762 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 469

3 credits

Advanced Skills with Families in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of CYC 302, CYC 310, CYC 320, CYC 321, CYC 340, and CYC 341.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Diverse and Indigenous frameworks and models for understanding family functioning and caregiving are explored. CYC milieus in which family work occurs are identified, and methods for understanding and working with families which are appropriate to CYC practitioners are presented and practiced.

CYC 470

3 credits

Play, Expressive, and Nature-Based Practices

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and (45 university-level credits or department head's permission).

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

The therapeutic and developmental value of play across contexts is examined. Historical and contemporary play theory, application, and skills/strategies for engaging in play in trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally relevant ways are explored and experienced. Children’s right to play, Indigenous perspectives of outdoor play, nature-based pedagogy, and expressive therapies are highlighted.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 770 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 485

3 credits

Understanding Diverse Populations in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of (CYC 100 or ECE 100), CYC 101, (CYC 120 or ECE 120), CYC 125, CYC 167, and CYC 168.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Using the construct of Social Capital, students hear the voices from those who are living in diverse populations. These speakers share how their diversity shaped who they are now, the challenges in their youth, and how CYC practitioners could support them.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 360P cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 490

6 credits

Directed Studies in Child and Youth Care

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the CYC degree program or permission of the program head

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Research projects, directed readings, or additional course work in a specified area. May be taken more than once for credit, provided the course content is different from that previously taken.

CYC 499

3 credits

Capstone for Child and Youth Care Professionals

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and C+ or better in each of CYC 425, CYC 485, and CYC 469.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): CYC 402 and CYC 410

Students will reflect on their education and document their experiences in CYC. They will explore how these translate into their practice as a graduate, viewed through the lenses of “know, be, and do”. Perspectives of CYC practice will be reviewed reflectively and demonstrated through evidence in a portfolio format.

CYC 711

6 credits

Child Life Internship

Prerequisite(s): CYC 761, CYC 762, and CYC 770.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Under the direct supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist students will complete a clinical internship in a health care setting. Utilizing knowledge and skills from coursework, this highly structured learning experience prepares students to provide child life services independently.

Note: This course is offered as CYC 711A and CYC 711B. Students must take both to receive credit.

CYC 761

3 credits

Child Life and Community Health

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Child Life and Community Health.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

This course explores theoretical perspectives for working with children and families in health care environments. Topics include impact of illness, injury and health care on patients and families, therapeutic play, preparation, family centered care, scope of practice and professionalism.

Note: This course is dual-listed with CYC 461. Students with credit for CYC 461 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 762

3 credits

Transitions: Working with Grief and Loss

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Child Life and Community Health.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Based on Indigenous ways of moving forward after grief and loss, this curriculum provides students with knowledge of how to help children, youth, and families navigate through these transitions while providing support for the journey.

Note: This course is dual-listed with CYC 462. Students with credit for CYC 462 cannot take this course for further credit.

CYC 770

3 credits

Play, Expressive, and Nature-Based Practices

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Child Life and Community Health.

Corequisite(s): None.

Pre- or corequisite(s): None.

Examines the therapeutic and developmental value of play across contexts. Historical and contemporary play theory, application, and skills/strategies for engaging in play in trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally relevant ways are explored and experienced. Children’s right to play, Indigenous perspectives of outdoor play, nature-based pedagogy, and expressive therapies are highlighted. The essential role of play in health care environments is explored.

Note: Students with credit for CYC 470 cannot take this course for further credit.

Last updated: November 3, 2023

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