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Program Availability
Online (Asynchronous)
Schedule
Flexible, Self-Paced Weekly Structure
Start date
Monthly
Course starting in
Graduate in 62 weeks with the Child and Youth Services Worker Diploma
Children and adolescents today face a wide range of challenges, from mental health struggles and family instability to social pressures and systemic barriers. Behind every young person navigating these realities is a need for consistent, compassionate support.
The 62-Week Child and Youth Services Worker Diploma Program prepares students to work directly with children, adolescents, and families in need of guidance, stability, and advocacy.
Through a combination of theory, case-based learning, and a capstone project, students develop the skills required to build trust, assess needs, and provide meaningful support in real-world settings.
- Understand child and adolescent development across major life stages
- Recognize mental health challenges and behavioral patterns in youth
- Apply crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
- Build strong, professional relationships with youth and families
- Support individuals through trauma-informed and inclusive approaches
- Navigate community resources and support systems
- Complete a capstone project focused on real youth service scenarios
Join Oxford College!
Make a difference in the lives of young people
Working with youth is more than a profession. It’s an opportunity to influence lives during some of their most formative years.
Oxford College equips students with the practical knowledge and interpersonal skills needed to support youth across community programs, schools, residential settings, and outreach services.
You’ll graduate prepared to step into environments where empathy, structure, and guidance can create lasting impact.
The benefits of becoming a Child and Youth Services Worker
Child and youth services professionals play an important role in helping young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and access the support they need.
This program focuses on real-world situations you’ll encounter in the field, such as crisis response, behavioral support, advocacy, and program facilitation.
Graduates leave with the ability to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully within multidisciplinary teams.
Develop Your Expertise in Youth Support
- Child and adolescent development and psychology
- Mental health awareness and substance use support
- Crisis intervention, safety planning, and conflict resolution
- Family systems and community-based support networks
- Inclusive and culturally responsive care practices
- Indigenous perspectives and decolonizing approaches
- Youth justice systems and legal frameworks
- Behavioral observation and intervention strategies
- Advocacy and community resource navigation
- Program facilitation and youth engagement
Youth support professionals are essential in today’s communities
Across Canada, there is an ongoing need for trained professionals who can support children and youth facing complex personal and social challenges.
From mental health services to housing support and school-based programs, organizations rely on skilled workers who can connect with youth, provide guidance, and help them navigate systems.
As demand for youth-focused services continues to grow, individuals with the right training and mindset are increasingly valued across both public and non-profit sectors.
Many Unique Benefits
62 weeks of focused training in child and youth services
1240 hours of structured learning and applied coursework
Flexible online delivery designed for independent learning
Development of real-world intervention and support skills
Training grounded in Canadian frameworks and legislation
Capstone project demonstrating applied youth support strategies
Flexible Program Options
This program is delivered through an asynchronous online model, giving you the flexibility to complete your studies on your own schedule each week.
You’ll follow a structured learning path while maintaining control over when and how you complete coursework. This format is ideal for individuals balancing school with work or other commitments.
Consistent engagement, time management, and self-discipline are key to success in this learning environment.
Key learnings
Upon successful completion of the Child and Youth Services Worker diploma program, you will be able to:
- Understand developmental stages and behavioral patterns in youth
- Apply communication strategies when working with children and families
- Respond to crisis situations using structured intervention techniques
- Support youth facing mental health and social challenges
- Practice inclusive, culturally aware, and trauma-informed care
- Navigate legal, social, and community support systems
- Document observations and maintain professional records
- Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
Real-World experience — professional field application
Throughout the program, students engage in case-based learning, scenario analysis, and applied exercises that reflect real challenges in youth work settings.
The capstone project allows students to design an intervention and plan a program, or case analysis that demonstrates readiness for the field.
Countless Career Opportunities
Upon completion, you may find employment as a:
- Child and Youth Services Worker
- Youth Support Worker
- Community Outreach Worker
- Residential Support Worker
With additional experience, graduates may progress into roles such as case management, program coordination, or specialized youth services positions.
Employment Outlook
The need for qualified child and youth services workers remains consistent across Canada, driven by increased awareness of youth mental health, community support needs, and the expansion of social services.
Opportunities exist in both public and non-profit sectors, including community agencies, residential programs, schools, and outreach initiatives.
Professionals who combine strong interpersonal skills with practical training are well-positioned for long-term career growth in this field.
Program details
The Child and Youth Services Worker Diploma Program prepares students to work in environments that support children and adolescents facing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges.
Students learn how to assess needs, build relationships, support development, and contribute to programs that promote stability and growth for youth.
Key areas include mental health awareness, crisis response, family dynamics, youth justice, and inclusive care practices.
Course Listings: Child and Youth Services Worker
- Introduction to Child and Youth Care
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Family Dynamics and Community Support
- Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution
- Mental Health and Addictions in Youth
- Indigenous Perspectives in Child and Youth Care
- Youth Justice and the Legal System
- Special Needs and Inclusive Care
- Child Development and Early Learning
- Risk Assessment and Crisis Management
- Child and Youth Advocacy and Policy
- Working with At-Risk Youth
- Understanding Youth Behaviour and Intervention
- Youth Mentorship and Leadership Development
- Addressing Current Youth Issues in Canada
- Capstone Project: Integrative Child and Youth Services Practice
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
OR
Mature Student Status with Wonderlic SLE-17
Why Choose Oxford College?
Career-Focused Education
All of the diploma programs are designed for long-term careers in high-growth industries, offering you a superior fast-track education.
Expert Instructors
Our faculty consists of experienced and well-trained staff who will give you industry-relevant knowledge along with your career training.
Modern Facilities
The state-of-the-art classrooms and labs are compliant with industry standards and allow for an emphasis on practical training.
Easy Campus Access
All our six campuses are located along transit hubs, making travel easy and conveniences accessible.
Flexible Start Dates
Flexible program start dates allow you to plan and begin your new career training at any time.
Financial Aid
Financial Aid may be available to those who qualify. We have dedicated staff who can assist you with the Financial Aid process.
Testimonials
“ Joining Oxford College was one of the greatest decisions I have made and I feel so fortunate to be one of your students. I’m really enjoying your virtual classes, you are an amazing and inspiring mentor. The style and method of your teaching tells me that I’m on the right track towards my potential career. “
-Abdelgadir Gadam, Oxford College Graduate