The Mental Health Care Assistant Undergraduate Diploma at VIU International is designed for aspiring professionals eager to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. You will explore essential concepts in interpersonal communication, lifestyle choices, and the practicalities of patient care, preparing you for diverse healthcare settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community-based services. This program equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to support clients with common and complex health conditions, fostering their well-being and independence.
This full-time, on-campus program is structured over two years, integrating theoretical learning with extensive practical experience. You will engage in hands-on learning through practicums and a capstone project, developing therapeutic relationships and mastering mental health assessment and intervention techniques. The curriculum emphasizes care of self and others, alongside understanding mental health and addictions. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to meet clients’ basic needs, provide crucial support for mental health challenges, and are eligible to apply for further study in programs like VIU’s Licensed Practical Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.