Become a Health Care Assistant through the Alberta Health Care Assistant (HCA) Program！
In the face of a shortage of medical manpower, Alberta has launched a "learn and earn" government-supported HCA course to address the two pain points of "heavy tuition burden" and "no income window period"! Paid training is $20.78 per hour, and a maximum of $9,000 in scholarships can be obtained during the training period. The course can be completed in 8-12 months! Unlock your medical career future with government resources!
Why choose Alberta Health Services (AHS) for the government-supported Health Care Assistant (HCA) program?
Here are 5 core advantages of choosing Alberta Health Services (AHS) for the government-supported Health Care Assistant (HCA) program:
Government Financial Support
HCA training is supported by AHS, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. In addition, you can also alleviate financial pressure through the Alberta HCA Tuition Bursary.
- HCATB Regular: up to $9,000.
- No need to repay: Qualify to receive subsidy
- Flexible application: Non-NorQuest students can also apply (no school preference)
Earn While You Learn
Participants receive an hourly wage (Hourly wage $20.78) during clinical placements and coursework, ensuring income continuity throughout the 8-12 month program. Hands-on experience during training ensures you are fully prepared for a successful career in healthcare.
HCA Certification
Complete a provincially approved training program and pass the provincial exam. Upon successful completion, you will receive the HCA certificate issued by the Alberta government.
Comprehensive skills development
Provincially standardized curriculum + immersive clinical practice, students will complete more than 320 hours of practical experience in AHS-operated institutions (hospitals, continuing care centers), and align with the Alberta HCA provincial curriculum, a competency-based learning approach.
Diverse selection of partner institutions: Alberta HCA training partner institutions
| Institution | Location | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABM College | Calgary/Edmonton | 8 months (Full-time) | - 100% provincial curriculum aligned - Online theory + in-person clinicals - Mental health specialization module |
| Academy of Learning (AOLC) | Province-wide (online + local practicum) | 6-8 months (Self-paced) | - Hybrid flexibility (online + coordinated practicum) - English language support - Weekly intakes |
| Alberta Business & Educational Services (ABES) | Calgary | 10 months (Part-time evening) | - Working-adult focused - Evening/weekend classes - Small cohorts (<20 students) |
| University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak (Blue Quills) | St. Paul (Indigenous-led) | 12 months (Culturally integrated) | - Indigenous cultural competency integration - Community clinic practicum priority - Indigenous language support |
| Bow Valley College | Calgary | 7 months (Accelerated full-time) | - 40% AHS hospital practicum - High-fidelity simulation labs - 98% employment rate (2024) |
No entrance exam required
The AHS-supported HCA program does not require an entrance exam — high school graduation is all you need to apply. Everyone interested in starting a career in healthcare is welcome, with no prior background or experience required. Comprehensive theoretical learning combined with hands-on practical training will fully prepare you for a successful future in healthcare settings.
Who Can Benefit from Alberta Health Care Assistant Training?
✅ Youth and career starters: Quickly gain practical skills and easily enter the healthcare field.
✅ Individuals seeking stable career transitions: No prior experience needed to start a long-term, stable role in caregiving.
✅ Residents of rural and remote areas: Benefit from government support to address local healthcare staff shortages with ample training and job opportunities.
✅ Equity-seeking groups (such as Indigenous peoples, immigrants, and low-income individuals): Access paid training and tuition bursaries to lower barriers and promote equal inclusion in the healthcare system.
What career paths are available after completing the Healthcare Assistant training?
- Health Care Aide (HCA): Providing direct care and support in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.
- Long-Term Care Facility Worker: Assisting elderly and chronic illness patients with daily living and health monitoring.
- Community Support Worker: Helping individuals with disabilities or special needs to improve their quality of life.
- Rehabilitation Center Assistant: Supporting patients through their rehabilitation and treatment plans.
- Medical Assistant or Nursing Support Roles: Assisting nurses and doctors with basic care tasks within healthcare teams.
Government-supported Health Care Assistant (HCA) Course Application Process
Applying for the AHS HCA program is straightforward. Simply follow these steps:
Visit the AHS website: Go to the official Alberta Health Services website to explore information about the HCA training program.
Review course details: Navigate to the “Career Opportunities” or “Education & Training” section to learn about program content, admission requirements, and available benefits.
Submit your application: Complete the online application form by providing your personal information, educational background, and any required supporting documents.
Start your healthcare career today by enrolling in Alberta's Health Care Assistant Program！