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Studying

Health Care Aide 

ChallengeProgram

Designed for experienced, uncertified care workers or foreign-trained nurses, this 3-month Challenge Program helps you turn your real-world experience into recognized certification.


You’ll refine your knowledge, strengthen your theory, and graduate ready to meet Manitoba’s HCA standards.

 What You'll Learn 

Building on your prior experience, this program focuses on advanced theory and practical knowledge, including:​

  • Health Care Aide Roles & Responsibilities

    • Understand your role in today’s healthcare system and how to work effectively within a collaborative team environment.

  • 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.

  • Promoting Holistic Care

    • Learn to meet the physical, emotional, mental, and social needs of your clients through compassionate, whole-person care.

  • Human Anatomy & Physiology

    • Deepen your understanding of how the body functions from infancy to old age—essential for providing age-appropriate, safe care.

  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills

    • Build your ability to communicate with empathy and professionalism across diverse situations involving patients, families, and health teams.

  • Health & Safety

    • Focus on workplace safety, injury prevention, patient mobility techniques, and infection control.

 Program Details 

  • Duration: 3 months â€‹

  • Format: Blended Delivery (in-person + online components)

  • Total Hours: 360 Total Hours 

    • Classroom: (weeks) 240 hours ​

    • Practicum: weeks (120 hours) 

  • Start Dates: September 2025, April 2026

  • Class Size: 16 students max

 Who Should Apply 

This program is ideal for those with relevant care experience but no formal Canadian certification:

  • 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.

  • Foreign-Trained Nurses

    • Professionals with international nursing credentials who are transitioning to work in Manitoba’s healthcare system.

  • 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:

  • Long-Term Care Homes

  • Hospitals

  • Home Care Agencies

  • Assisted Living Facilities

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Job titles may include:

  • Health Care Aide (HCA)

  • Personal Support Worker (PSW)

  • Home Care Attendant

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