A practicum involves placement in a school or community agency with an opportunity to practice skills learned in the program. The certificate program has two practicums, in the second and third semesters, and the diploma program has one additional practicum. The practicum is 25 - 30 working days over a five week period. The practicum may involve some travel in the lower mainland and a car is a definite asset. The Volunteer Opportunities page gives a sample of the range of practicum opportunities available.
Many graduates choose to continue their education.
Those with a with a diploma receive two full years credit towards a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child and Youth Care at University College of the Fraser Valley , Malaspina University College and the University of Victoria . Diploma graduates also have the option to transfer into the third year of the Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation program at the University of Calgary . Other options for transfer are currently under discussion. They include Social Work, Adult Education and Community Studies. Graduates from the CSW Certificate program at Douglas College or another college or university may need additional credits in order to get a CCS diploma.