Community, Family and Child Studies, Diploma

Program outline

For more details, including courses, please see the program outline in the academic calendar.

Program outline

An investment in caring

Invest in yourself! There are many employment opportunities for graduates from the Community, Family & Child Studies program. Community and team environments could include family support services, schools and after school programs, family resource centres, life skills and recreation programs, youth services, women's services, employment training programs, community outreach, foster care and other residential care services.

What to expect

Our program is two years if taken full time. As a full-time student, you'll take approximately five courses per semester. You can expect an additional 15 to 30 hours per week for homework, depending on your learning style.

Assessment occurs in all courses and may include research papers, reflective journals, projects, presentations, and exams. It is a rigorous program with a combination of academic and hands-on practical experiences. You will develop leadership skills and participate in planning, advocacy and civic engagement activities to strengthen community.

Year 1

Your first year will include courses in lifespan development, family and community, professional practice, academic writing strategies, an introduction to community resources, and you’ll work with your classmates to develop and implement a project that contributes to the community.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll take courses and gain experience in an off-campus practicum to enhance your relationship and support skills with an emphasis on diversity, current community issues and social justice. Practicum is a great place to begin to develop your professional reputation.

Transfer opportunities

CFCS Diploma graduates may be eligible to receive a block transfer (60 credits) towards the UVIC BA in Child & Youth Care. Transfer credit for related programs at other BC Post Secondary Institutions may also be available. Contact the Advising Centre of the institution of choice for more details.

Effective from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025

Estimated tuition

Tuition estimates are for the entire program.

Community, Family and Child Studies, Diploma

$6,517 (domestic)
$32,864 (international)

Domestic tuition fees vary depending on the individual course fees for the classes you select.

For International students visit: International Tuition & Fees.

Student fees

In addition to tuition estimates, student fees are calculated based on your enrolment. Refer to: Student Fees.

Financial assistance

You may need to find more than one source of funding to help pay for your education and living costs while attending college. Check out sources of money you don't need to pay back as well as those that need to be repaid.

Financial Aid & Awards