Child and Youth Care Courses

CYC 100 (3) Introduction to Professional Child and Youth Care Practice

Introduction to the profession's history and current status as a profession. Key contributors will be explored along with Aboriginal ways of knowing and being in relationship to CYC practice. Students will develop an understanding of the scope of Child and Youth Care practice, and the profession's guiding principles and foundational perspectives. CYC 100 was formerly called CYC 201; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: English 12 and either first-year standing in CYC program or permission of Department Chair

CYC 101 (3) Theoretical Foundations in Child and Youth Care

An introduction to theoretical orientations to change, select theories, practice models and their constructs foundational to Child and Youth Care professional practice. Students will develop an understanding of how Child and Youth Care practice perspectives inform the application of both theories and models. CYC 101 was formerly called CYC 200A; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: English 12 and first year standing in CYC program.

CYC 111 (3) Child Development

An introduction to the study of child development (0- 12 years) focusing on the domains of physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual. The skills of observation, ethics, utilizing developmental concepts in practice, and the integration of cultural knowledge will be the focus. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: English 12 and first year standing in CYC program.

CYC 112 (3) Adolescent Development

A continuation of the study of child development (13-30 years) focusing on the domains of physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual. The skills of observation, utilizing developmental concepts in practice, and the integration of cultural knowledge will be a key focus. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in CYC 111; or ECEC 110 and ECEC 111; or PSYC 131 and PSYC 132.

CYC 152 (3) Interpersonal Communication Skills in a Therapeutic Context

An introduction to the dynamics and skills associated with effective interpersonal skills foundational to helping in Human Services work. Students will apply course materials to enhance their self-awareness, reflective practice and skills in working with others. CYC 152 was formerly called CYC 252A; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: English 12 and first year standing in CYC program.

CYC 165 (3) Introductions to Group Work in Child & Youth Care Practice

An exploration of various theoretical approaches, Aboriginal philosophies and techniques for understanding and working with, and within, groups of children, youths and/or adults. Students focus on examining individual behaviors presented within groups; including leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution styles. CYC 165 was formerly called CYC 265; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: English 12. Min. "C+" in either CYC 152, ECEC 150 or SOCW 252. First year standing in CYC Program.

CYC 200A (3) Theoretical Foundations in Child and Youth Care

A thematic exploration of theoretical orientations and practice perspectives relevant to CYC practice: learning, psychodynamic, humanistic, and systems theories and relational, developmental, ecological, strength based, pluralistic, and social justice practice perspectives. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: None.

CYC 200B (6) Professional Foundations for Child and Youth Care

An exploration of child and youth care as a profession, current issues impacting practice and an introduction to organizing self in practice with children, youth, families and communities. An understanding and application of models consistent with child and youth care principles and perspectives are emphasized. (3:0:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC Diploma or CYC Degree.

CYC 201 (3) Introduction to Professional Child and Youth Care

An overview of the development of the child and youth care profession and an introduction to perspectives, principles, theories, and models applied across a range of settings serving children, youth, families, and communities. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: None.

CYC 210 (6) Introductory Supervised Practicum (Effective Sep 2024)

A practicum course combining faculty support with field practice and mentorship where students will demonstrate relational, culturally safe, developmentally responsive, purposeful, ethical and professional CYC practice and design and lead group activities with children and/or youth. (0:2:0 -200 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in CYC Diploma program. Current registration or completion of second-year core courses with a min. "C+" in each core course.

CYC 212 (3) Introduction to Activity Based Child and Youth Care Practice

An introduction to the use of arts, games, play, and nature based experiences in Child and Youth Care practice. Topics include theoretical foundations, ethical considerations, benefits of activity based work, and aboriginal approaches and strategies to support diversity and inclusion in activity based practice. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in Child and Youth Care or permission of instructor.

CYC 231 (3) An Introduction to Family Development and Support

This course examines the changing nature of family life in contemporary Canadian society. Students will engage in an exploration of historical trends, structure, culture, gender, role, socioeconomic status and discrimination as it pertains to family systems. Ways to support families in meeting developmental tasks will be identified. CYC 231 was formerly called CYC 260B; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in Child and Youth Care

CYC 232 (3) Diverse Abilities in Child and Youth Care

An introduction into diverse abilities within the context of CYC practice. This course includes an historical perspective on diverse abilities, definitions, conceptual models, and service delivery. Quality of life, inclusion, culture, mental health, social justice and strength-based practices for persons with diverse abilities and their families are examined. CYC 232 was formerly called CYC 360K; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in Child and Youth Care.

CYC 252 (3) Fundamental Counselling Skills

A continued exploration of communication skills in Human Services work with an emphasis on integrating a counselling model. Students will apply the communication skills taught in CYC 152 while applying a person-centered counselling model with emphasis on positive growth and change with individuals. CYC 252 was formerly called CYC 252B; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either CYC 152 or ECEC 150; and second year standing in CYC program.

CYC 252A (3) Interpersonal Communication Skills

An introduction to the dynamics and skills associated with effective interpersonal skills in Human Services work; an understanding of the characteristics and development of relationships both in one-to-one and group settings. Students will apply course materials to enhance their self-awareness and functioning in relationships with others. CYC 252A was formerly called CYC 252; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: None.

CYC 252B (3) Advanced Interpersonal Skills

A continued exploration of relationship-based work within Human Services emphasizing positive growth and change with individuals. Topics include learning and demonstrating communication and interpersonal skills that support person- centred exploration and/or problem-solving process with individuals, children, youth, and adults. CYC 252B was formerly called CYC 252; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either ECEC 150 or CYC 252A.

CYC 260B (3) An Introduction to Family Development and Support

A study of the developmental tasks of families; the historical and emerging themes for Canadian families; their relevance to one's own family; and ways to support families that are reflective of professional CYC practice in meeting developmental tasks. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: None.

CYC 260C (3) Special Topics in Child and Youth Care-Leadership and Personal Development

An analysis of the theory and application of leadership as it relates to the Child and Youth Care profession. Topics include group relations, goal setting, and motivation, to ensure that client needs are met effectively. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: None.

CYC 260D (3) International Field Study

An opportunity to experience, in an overseas environment, an international and intercultural perspective on social issues. Includes opportunities for the critical examination of how international social services agencies operate. (0:8:13 for 4 weeks)

Prerequisite: Admission to a Human Services program or permission of Department Chair.

CYC 261 (3) Special Topics: Child and Youth Care

This course provides an opportunity to examine selected current issues in Child and Youth Care. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in CYC program.

CYC 262 (3) Relational Youth Work

An exploration of the cultural, psychological, and sociological contexts within which youth grow and mature. Skill development in identifying needs and resources of youth and strategies for working with young people are explored. CYC 262 was formerly called CYCL 262; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in Child and Youth Care and CYC 112 or equivalent.

CYC 265 (3) An Introduction to Group Work Practice in Professional CYC

An exploration of various theoretical foundations and applied approaches for understanding and working with, and within, groups of children/youths/adults. Building upon CYC 252A students focus on a relational perspective examining individual behaviours presented within groups; including leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution styles. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either ECEC 150 or CYC 252A.

CYC 290 (6) Directed Studies in Child and Youth Care

Research projects, directed readings, or additional course work in a specified area. (May be taken more than once for credit, provided the course content is different from that previously taken.) (0:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC program and permission of Department Chair.

CYC 301 (3) Applying Assessment and Service Planning in CYC Practice.

An examination of professional practice with a focus on assessment and service planning processes with children, youth and caregivers. Topics include: inclusive and consultative service planning, ethical decision-making, applying theoretical approaches to practice and the integration of cultural perspectives in service planning work. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third year standing in Child and Youth Care or permission of Department Chair.

CYC 310 (9) Supervised Practicum (Effective Sep 2024)

A practicum course combining faculty support with field practice and mentorship where students will demonstrate the effective integration of CYC concepts, theories and skills in communication, professional practice, purposeful practice and critical reflective practice, with particular emphasis on cultural safety, ethical dimensions of practice and therapeutic program development and facilitation. (0:2:0 -300 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing in Child and Youth Care or permission of Department Chair.

Co-requisites: CYC 301, CYC 321, CYC 323, CYC 324, CYC 350, and CYC 361 with a min. "C+" in each course.

CYC 321 (3) Contact and Colonization: Implications for CYC Practice.

This course will critically examine the historical and ongoing process of colonization and its impacts on Aboriginal peoples in British Columbia. It will examine the historical, economic, social and psychological effects of colonization on Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities with particular emphasis on implications for CYC practitioners. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third year standing in Child and Youth Care.

CYC 323 (3) Research in the Field of Child and Youth Care

Introduces students to ways in which knowledge in the CYC field is developed and helps them to foster skills in the organization and analysis of research in the professional literature. Topics explore the range of research techniques and methods after which students will develop a formal research proposal. CYC 323 was formerly called CYC 423; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third year standing in Child and Youth Care.

CYC 324 (3) Community and Program Development in Child and Youth Care Practice

This course examines the role of the CYC practitioner in influencing community and macro level environments that affect children, youth and families. Topics include community development, with a particular emphasis on Aboriginal communities, social policy, program development, leadership and advocacy in child and youth care practice. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third year standing in Child and Youth Care.

CYC 350 (3) Law and Child And Youth Care Practice

Examination of the legal system; its strengths and limitations, as well as select laws affecting children and youth, family law, human rights, and youth restorative justice become the focus of this course. The legal accountability of Child and Youth Care Practitioners in relation to these laws will be covered. CYC 350 was formerly called CYC 350A; credit will not be granted for both courses. Credit will only be granted for one of SOCW 350A or CYC 350. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third year standing in Child and Youth Care.

CYC 350A (3) Law and Social Services

A study of the legal system, select laws, and the processes by which laws are enacted and operationalized. Examples of law as an expression of social policy and how their administration affects children/youth, families, groups and communities, including Aboriginal peoples are emphasized. Legal accountability and social justice will be addressed. Credit will only be granted for one of SOCW 350A or CYC 350A. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing and permission of CYC Chair, or admission to CYC diploma program or B.A. CYC (third/fourth year).

CYC 360 (3) Special Topics in Child and Youth Care

This course provides an opportunity to examine selected current issues in child and youth care. (With approval of the CYC Chair, this course may be taken more than once for credit.) (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC diploma or degree program, or permission of CYC Chair.

CYC 360B (3) Special Topics: Youth and Active Lifestyles

A discovery of how wellness and active lifestyles impact children and youth, and how a collective effort from health, education, leisure, government and the private sector can produce systems, environments and societal norms which enhance the well-being of our younger generation. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. CYC (third/fourth year) or permission of CYC Chair.

CYC 360G (3) Special Topics: Peer Support Programs

An introduction to the concept of peer helping, which was originally developed for secondary schools but is now used in many community organizations. This course is designed to assist students to understand the definition and purpose of peer helping, how to apply this understanding in a variety of settings and with various age groups. (3:0:0 for 14 weeks)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC degree or diploma program and CYC 252.

CYC 360H (3) Special Topics: Being Together: The Core Issues of Relationship

An exploration of relationships from a personal, as well as a professional perspective. At the personal level, our relational experiences are at the heart of who we are and how we go about our lives. As professionals, the beliefs we hold, the concepts we use and the theories we choose are based on our earliest experiences of "being together" with others. This course is designed to recognize and respect individual differences in interest, experience and academic background. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC degree or diploma, and CYC 252.

CYC 360K (3) Special Topics: Disability Issues

An examination of disability issues within an interdisciplinary, social justice framework. An exploration of the evolution of approaches to teamwork, communication, service planning and delivery in services for people with disabilities. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC degree or diploma program.

CYC 360L (3) Special Topics: Intro to Working with Children and Youth through the Medium of Art

An introduction and exploration of the therapeutic roots and qualities of art making. Encourages students to experience the rich therapeutic potential of art making as a medium for effecting growth and change in children and youth. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC degree program.

CYC 360P (3) Special Topics: Promoting Positive Outcomes

An exploration of risk and resiliency within an ecological context. Students consider the ways in which they can apply knowledge about risk and resiliency to child and youth care/early childhood practice. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to CYC degree program.

CYC 361 (3) Understanding Substance Use in Child and Youth Care Practice

An introduction to the spectrum of substance use including theoretical and practical approaches. Topics include identification of the varying stages of substance use and its impact on children, youth and families. Skill development and how to incorporate CYC principles in identifying and addressing substance use concerns will be the focus. CYC 361 was formerly called CYC 360J; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing in Child and Youth Care or permission of instructor.

CYC 362 (3) Child Abuse and Neglect Concerns

An overview of the topic of child abuse and neglect and family violence in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities as it relates to Child and Youth Care practice. The dynamics present in the abuse of children and youth, signs and symptoms, as well as service responses will be explored. CYC 362 was formerly called CYC 360A; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second year standing in either CYC or SSER program.

CYC 363 (3) Child and Youth Mental Health

A study of clinical practice with children and youth where mental health considerations are present. Topics include concepts of mental health, examination of problem-based and strength-based approaches, mental health assessments and diagnostic procedures, introduction to psychopharmacology, the roles/responsibilities of non-prescribing health/human services workers and related service planning. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third Year Standing in Child and Youth Care Degree program

CYC 391 (3) Therapeutic Applications of Wilderness Programming

Drawing from the fields of human development, group dynamics, adventure therapy, ecopsychology, conflict resolution, risk management and Indigenous knowledge, this field course will expose students to a variety of techniques and theories that can be applied to help youth work towards specific therapeutic objectives in the context of wilderness-based travel/expeditions. (22.5:0:0 for 2 weeks)

Prerequisite: Min "C+" in either CYC 310 or TRMT 397 or permission of the instructor.

CYC 403 (3) Best Practice in Child Safety

Following evidence informed practice students will focus on assessment, intervention, service planning, permanency planning and evaluation when working with child abuse and neglect concerns where a legislated response is required. Students will work extensively with Child Protection legislation governing the communities in which they will practice. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: CYC 362 or equivalent, and fourth-year standing in Child and Youth Care program.

CYC 404 (3) Law and Social Services

A study of law as it affects human service professionals. Topics include specific alternative dispute resolution approaches and investigative interviewing when working in legislated practice environments with children, youth, families and/or adults; the law as an expression of social policy; legal principles; and the role of the human service professional. Note: Some sections of this course may be offered on-line. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Fourth-year standing in the BA CYC, and CYC 350A or SOCW 350A, or permission of instructor.

CYC 410 (9) Advanced Supervised Practicum (Effective Sep 2024)

A practicum course combining faculty support with field practice and mentorship where students will demonstrate critically reflective, purposeful, culturally safe, and ethical professional CYC practice with particular emphasis on advanced therapeutic CYC practice, leadership and advocacy with individuals, families/caregivers, communities, and organizations that promote social justice. (0:2:0 -350 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Fourth-year standing in Child and Youth Care or permission of Department Chair.

Co-requisites: CYC 466, CYC 403, HSD 425, CYC 424, CYC 475, and CYC 476 with a min. "C+" in each course

CYC 411 (6) Advanced CYC Practice: Theory, Research and Application

A continued examination of professional practice and the integration of select theories and therapeutic approaches that emphasize the practitioner's partnership role with families and communities regarding the care of children/youth. Topics include leadership, advocacy, program design, community development, research assessment, research proposal writing and the continuing use of self in relationship. (3:0:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Fourth year standing in BA CYC. Current registration or completion of fourth year core courses with a min. "C+" in each core course.

CYC 422 (6) CYC First Nations Fourth Year Seminar

A complement to CYC 410 for students entering practice in First Nations Child and Youth Care settings. Emphasis is on the various roles of graduating students; as mentors, as seminar leaders, in liaison with elders and resource practitioners, and in identifying and developing responses to specific practice issues. (0:3:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Fourth year standing in CYC program.

CYC 424 (3) Child And Youth Mental Health

A study of CYC practice with children, youth and families where mental health considerations are present. Students will explore multiple ways of understanding and responding to mental health concerns and diagnoses. Emphasis will be placed on the CYC practitioner's role, inter-professional practice and skills associated with intervention planning. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Fourth year standing in the CYC program and min. "C+" in CYC 232.

CYC 466 (3) Therapeutic Assessment Work with Families

An analysis of current issues facing families and the application of practice principles is the focus of this course. Students will develop and demonstrate skills to write and facilitate a professional family assessment. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Fourth-year standing in Child and Youth Care and successful completion of CYC 310

CYC 474 (3) Child and Youth Care Practice with Individuals

A continuation of the skill development and application of basic and advanced interpersonal skills when working relationally with individual children, youth, and adults. Building upon knowledge and skills, the recognition and effective application of a CYC orientation to practice in a variety of situations will be emphasized. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third/fourth-year standing in the BA CYC program.

CYC 475 (3) Advanced Activity Based CYC Practice in Groups

An advanced, experiential, activity based group practice course in CYC. Students will develop, facilitate, and evaluate group interventions that are grounded in CYC theories and perspectives. The facilitation of arts, play and nature based activities in various types of groups will be examined. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Fourth year standing in CYC program and min. "C+" in CYC 212.

CYC 476 (3) Therapeutic Intervention Plans with Families

A continuation of CYC 466, focusing on the application of knowledge and the development of an intervention plan based on a family assessment. Students will be actively engaged in writing and facilitating a family based intervention plan that incorporates the use of activities. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Fourth year standing in CYC program and a min. C+ in CYC 466.

CYC 490 (3) Directed Studies in Child and Youth Care

Research projects, directed reading, or additional course work in a specified area. (May be taken more than once for credit, provided the course content is different from that previously taken.) (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third or fourth year standing in the CYC program.

CYCL 111 (3) Child Development I

A study of child development and the lives of children from conception through toddlerhood. Included are both traditional teachings and cultural practices in First Nations communities and major themes and theories from the study of human development. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to program or permission of Coordinator.

CYCL 112 (3) Child Development II

A continuation of the study of child development from early childhood through to the end of adolescence. Included are both traditional teachings and cultural practices in First Nations communities and major themes and theories from the study of human development. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in CYCL 111.

CYCL 131 (4.5) Practicum I: Preparation for CYC Professional Practice

An overview of child and youth care practice in various settings, including preparation for academic and field work. Elders and practitioners will address resources and current issues within the context of a traditional territory. The course introduces perspectives, principles, theories and models, as well as ethical decision making. (1.5:2:0 -10)

Prerequisite: Admission to program.

CYCL 132 (4.5) Practicum II: Introduction to CYC Professional Practice

A continuation of CYCL 131 providing the opportunity for students to work with children, youth, and families in a variety of settings at an introductory level. Students develop observation and recording skills and become familiar with the roles and responsibilities of child and youth care practitioners. (1.5:2:0 -100)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in CYCL 131.

CYCL 152 (3) Guiding the Behaviour of Children

An examination of skills, at an introductory level, required for communicating with children in ways that foster positive development. The perspectives of First Nations peoples regarding communicating with and guiding children are elicited from Elders and students. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.

CYCL 234 (4.5) Practicum III and Professional Foundations for Child and Youth Care

A study of issues impacting practice with opportunities for students to take initiative and develop self-evaluative skills in planning and conducting purposeful interventions with children, youth, families, and communities. An understanding and application of models consistent with First Nations culture(s) and child and youth care professional practice is emphasized. (1.5:2:0 -100)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.

CYCL 235 (4.5) Practicum IV and Professional Foundations for Child and Youth Care

A continuation of CYCL 234 providing further opportunities for students to integrate core concepts into their child and youth care professional practice; to develop practice skills and to engage in the design and delivery of individual and/or group programs with agency supervision and faculty contact. (1.5:2:0 -100)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in CYCL 234.

CYCL 252 (6) Fundamentals of Change

An examination of self, change, and relationships in child and youth care practice. Students will learn and practice interpersonal communication skills and purposeful intervention approaches. First Nations cultural perspectives will guide skill development. (3:0:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Admission to program.

CYCL 261 (3) Introduction to Family Development and Support

An introduction to the developmental tasks of families; historical and emerging themes, particularly of First Nations; relevance to one's own family and ways to support families in meeting developmental and situational needs. CYCL 261 was formerly called CYCL 260B; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.

CYCL 262 (3) Adolescence and Adolescent Issues

An exploration of the cultural, psychological, and sociological contexts within which Aboriginal youth grow and mature, that builds upon student understanding of adolescent development. Skill development in identifying needs and resources of youth and strategies for working with young people are explored. CYCL 262 was formerly called CYCL 260C; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.

CYCL 263 (3) Elder Teachings in Child and Youth Care I

A learning experience in which invited elders from First Nations communities in South Vancouver Island relate cultural knowledge and traditions in relation to semester curriculum. CYCL 263 was formerly called CYCL 260D; credit will not be granted for both courses. (1:2:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Admission to program.

CYCL 264 (3) Elder Teachings in Child and Youth Care II

An examination of the current semester's curriculum in relation to cultural knowledge and traditions as shared by invited Elders from First Nations communities on Southern Vancouver Island. CYCL 264 was formerly called CYCL 260E; credit will not be granted for both courses. (1:2:0 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.

CYCL 362 (3) Abuse in the Family from a First Nations Practice Perspective

An overview of responsibilites that citizens, including practitioners, have to observe, identify, and respond to the occurrence and effects of child abuse and neglect. Topics include: definitions and contexts of abuse and neglect, the range of service responses, resources available to the community, and students' evolving readiness to practice. CYCL 362 was formerly called CYCL 360A; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in the CYC First Nations Diploma.