Advanced College Diploma - Child and Youth Care (CYAS)

The Advanced College Diploma - Child and Youth Care (CYAS) at Loyalist College's Belleville campus is a advanced college diploma that gives you a strong, career-focused education in this field.

You will prepare to support children and youth facing emotional, behavioural and social challenges — studying child and adolescent development, therapeutic relationships, behaviour support, trauma-informed and relational practice — with supervised placements. The program emphasises care, advocacy and practical skills. Graduates work as child and youth care workers in residential, school, community and family settings, making a real difference in young lives.

Delivered with hands-on labs and placements at Loyalist College's Belleville campus in eastern Ontario. This program is on Loyalist's official PGWP-aligned programs list (CIP 44.0702), so graduates may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit — the final decision always rests with IRCC.

Graduates are well placed for roles such as Child and Youth Care Worker, Youth Worker and Residential Care Worker, leaving with practical skills and real Canadian experience that employers value.

Beyond technical training, you will build the communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills that transfer across careers and support long-term success in Canada and beyond.

With small classes, supportive instructors and a hands-on approach, international students at Loyalist College get personal attention and a genuinely welcoming place to study.