Indigenous Community Support Worker Certificate
Learn how to support and assist Indigenous individuals and families in this hands-on certificate, covering foundational training required by all community based workers. This program encourages a direct person-to-person and family based approach and includes a practicum for experience in an entry-level position at a community organization.
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Campus
- Penticton
- Distance
Legend:
- Full program offered
- Partial program offered
Credential
Certificate
Delivery options
Online, Part-Time
Tuition and fees
2024-25: $6,180.21
- plus applicable textbooks and/or materials
-
All amounts are approximate and are subject to change.
Program details
The 375-hour Indigenous Community Support Worker Certificate prepares learners to support and assist Indigenous Individuals and families, both on- and off-reserve, to enhance their quality of life. In addition to covering the core training required by all community workers, this program enables learners to develop knowledge and direct employment-related skills required to work with the unique needs of Indigenous people and communities.
This program emphasizes a person/family-centred and holistic approach to community support work and includes a 70-hour practicum at approved organizations. Graduates are prepared to work in entry-level positions under direction and supervision, and practice professionally as part of a support team in community-based organizations that work with Indigenous persons.
Already have experience in this area? This program qualifies for our Recognition of Prior Learning review. If some of your previous experience could apply to this program, please click here for more information.
Shannon Peltier was inspired to train to provide support to Indigenous youth and families by her Nohkom (grandmother). She found that opportunity through the Indigenous Community Support Worker (ACSW) Certificate program at AVÌìÌÃ. She now works as an Indigenous AVÌìÌà Advocate working with students.
| Campus | Start date | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Penticton | Sep. 03, 2025 | Online Synchronous. Mon/Wed 6- 9pm; Sat 9am - 4pm |
Admission requirements
- B.C. secondary school graduation, or equivalent, or 19 years of age and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes.
- English 12 with minimum 60% or .
- A criminal record check clearance from the B.C. Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General's Criminal Records Review Office. AVÌìÌÃ's admission offices will provide applicants with instructions and forms for applicants to submit to the Solicitor General's Office and a deadline for the College to receive the clearance letter. Applicants should only initiate their criminal record check when instructed by Admissions. Failure to provide a clearance letter by the deadline will result in a cancellation of the applicant's admission application.
Program outline
Learners must pass the practicum and attain a minimum grade of 70% in each course in the program to receive the certificate.
Additional information
View the official Calendar details and policies
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