Make an impact in human services
Alberta projects 178,700+ jobs in the human services sector by 2035
Health care needs every kind of talent, on the front lines or behind the scenes. Explore diverse careers that contribute to quality care across the health-care system.
Prepare for people-focused, professional work
Explore programs that provide practical training, workplace experience, and clear pathways to employment, professional recognition, or further education.
Settlement Studies
Settlement Studies will teach you skills to become a settlement service worker in Canada, including 400 hours of field experience.
Outcome
Diploma
Length
5 terms
Disability Studies
Prepare for a rewarding career supporting individuals with disabilities in reaching their goals and participating fully in school, work, and community.
Indigenous Studies
Explore topics in Indigenous ways of knowing and being, social policy and laws, land-based learning, and more with NorQuest’s Indigenous Studies diploma.
Child and Youth Care
Prepare for a career supporting children, youth, and families facing social, emotional, and behavioural challenges.
Outcome
Diploma
Length
4 terms
Justice
This two-year diploma prepares you for a career in justice through focused study of Alberta laws, policies, and the socio-economic factors that influence crime.
Educational Assistant
Become an educational assistant with NorQuest's EA certificate program. Gain hands-on experience supporting teaching and building inclusive classrooms.
Outcome
Certificate
Length
2 terms
Early Learning and Child Care – certificate
Learn to support child development, provide care, and prepare for Early Childhood Educator II certification from Alberta Children’s Services.
Early Learning and Child Care – diploma
Learn to support child development, provide care, and prepare for Early Childhood Educator III certification from Alberta Children’ Services.
Social Work
Learn the foundations and front-line skills of social work, with a focus on human diversity, anti-oppressive practice, and ethical care.
Outcome
Diploma
Length
6 terms
Mental Health Recovery Practitioner
Gain the knowledge and skills to identify and understand mental health needs and support clients navigate mental health systems.
Outcome
Post-diploma certificate
Length
2 terms
Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker
Teaching English as a Second Language
This 120-hour TESL program builds essential skills to teach English language learners (ELLs) and readies you to apply for TESL Canada certification.
Outcome
Completion certificate
Length
120 hours
Designed with employers. Built in the community.
From vision to action: NorQuest grads changing lives in Edmonton
Learn how Settlement Studies grads Diana Ramirez and Francisco Escobar co-founded an organization to support and empower Latino migrants in Edmonton.
November 25, 2024
Alumni
Life-changing lessons as NorQuest students explore global learning in Zimbabwe
NorQuest students travelled to Zimbabwe for a life-changing global learning trip, gaining hands-on experience in education and disability support. See how this international journey helped them build new skills, grow personally, and connect with a global community.
April 30, 2025
NorQuest
Empowering futures: Treaty 8 ELCC grads transforming their communities
Celebrating the historic achievement of Treaty 8 Indigenous graduates in NorQuest’s Early Learning and Child Care Program
May 9, 2024
IndigenousA little clarity can go a long way. Find answers to common questions.
Which helping profession is the right fit for me?
Support people through life challenges
- Child and Youth Care, Disability Studies, Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker, Mental Health Recovery Practitioner
Support learning and development
- Early Learning and Child Care, Educational Assistant, Teaching English as a Second Language
Advocate for people and strengthen communities
- Social Work, Settlement Studies, Justice, Indigenous Studies
What should I consider when choosing a program?
The right program depends on you and your goals.
Consider:
- Your interests: What kind of work would you enjoy?
- Your future goals: What careers or opportunities do you want to pursue?
- Your credential: Do you want short-term training, a certificate, or a diploma?
- Your starting point: Do you meet the requirements or is there another way to enter the program?
- Your learning preferences: What fits your schedule and lifestyle?
If you’re unsure, you don’t need to figure this all out on your own. Reach out to an advisor for help.
What if I don’t meet the admission requirements?
Missing a course or prerequisite doesn't close the door. Depending on the program, you may be able to qualify through:
- Open Admissions Pathways: An alternative admission route that uses approved courses for entry into select programs.
- Academic Upgrading: High school-level courses to meet admission requirements or earn your high school diploma.
- Academic Assessment: Testing to determine your academic skill levels.
- English language proficiency: Proof of English skills through testing, upgrading, or approved equivalent.
While you work on upgrading your qualifications, you may be able to get a head start on some programs by taking courses through Open Studies.
If you’re unsure, you don’t need to figure this all out on your own. Reach out to an advisor for help.
What financial support could I qualify for?
Start with our interactive Funding Your Education tool. By answering a few quick questions about your student type and program, you’ll get a personalized list of options tailored to your situation.
Depending on your results, your funding options may include:
- Government loans and grants
- Awards, scholarships, and bursaries
- NorQuest and community resources
You can also use our Cost Estimator to calculate your expected tuition and fees.
If you’re unsure, you don’t need to figure this all out on your own. Reach out to an advisor for help.
Can I fit school around work and other responsibilities?
Yes. Many NorQuest programs offer flexible study options. Depending on the program, you may find:
- Flexible delivery: In-person, online, blended, or HyFlex learning that lets you choose between online or in-person participation
- Flexible scheduling: Real-time, anytime, evening, or weekend classes
- Part-time study: Learn at a pace that works for you
- Community-based learning: Some work-integrated learning opportunities may be available closer to home
Check the program pages for details about delivery methods, schedules, and placement requirements.
Questions? We're here to help.
Ask us a question
Search answers to common questions or send us a message for personalized support.
Connect with an advisor
We're here to help you explore your options.
In-person
Visit us in CELT main floor. View our campus map.
Phone
Call us at 780.644.6000