
Health Care Aide
Challenge
Program
Because real-world experience deserves recognition.
Designed for experienced, uncertified care workers or internationally trained nurses, this 3-month Challenge Program turns your hands-on experience into recognized certification.
You’ll refine your knowledge, strengthen your theory, and graduate job-ready — fully aligned with Manitoba’s HCA standards.
What You'll Learn
Building on your prior experience, this program focuses on advanced theory and practical knowledge, including:​
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Health Care Aide Roles & Responsibilities
Understand your role in today’s healthcare system and how to work effectively within a collaborative team environment.
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Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Strengthen your knowledge of best practices for supporting mobility, hygiene, feeding, dressing, and toileting—while preserving dignity and independence.
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Promoting Holistic Care
Learn to meet the physical, emotional, mental, and social needs of your clients through compassionate, whole-person care.
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Human Anatomy & Physiology
Deepen your understanding of how the body functions from infancy to old age—essential for providing age-appropriate, safe care.
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Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Build your ability to communicate with empathy and professionalism across diverse situations involving patients, families, and health teams.
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Health & Safety
Focus on workplace safety, injury prevention, patient mobility techniques, and infection control.
Program Details
Duration: approx. 4 months ​
Format: Blended Delivery (in-person + online components)
Total Hours: 360 Total Hours
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Classroom + Lab: approx. 6 weeks (162 hours)
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Practicum: approx. 10 weeks (198 hours)
Start Dates: August 2025, January 2026
Small class sizes. Focused support: Our pilot cohort has limited seats available — apply early to secure your spot.
Who Should Apply
This program is ideal for those with relevant care experience but no formal Canadian certification:
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Uncertified Health Care Aides
If you’ve been working in a healthcare setting without formal certification, this is your chance to validate and upgrade your skills.
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Foreign-Trained Nurses
Professionals with international nursing credentials who are transitioning to work in Manitoba’s healthcare system.
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Experienced Caregivers
Individuals who’ve worked as home care aides, personal support workers, or in similar roles and want to pursue official certification.
Career Outcomes
Graduates are eligible for employment in:
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Long-Term Care Homes
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Hospitals
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Home Care Agencies
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Assisted Living Facilities
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Job titles may include:
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Health Care Aide (HCA)
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Personal Support Worker (PSW)
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Home Care Attendant