Alberta Health Services: Government-Supported Health Care Assistant Training – Earn Money While Completing Your Certification
Want to start a healthcare career without previous experience?
The AHS Health Careers Access Program (HCAP) is a government-supported healthcare training pathway designed for individuals with no prior healthcare experience. Participants can work in healthcare settings and receive a weekly stipend during the 12-month training period.
This unique opportunity combines paid work experience with post-secondary certification, supported by professional healthcare teams and mentors.
Program Overview – Alberta HCA Course
Training Duration: ~12 months
Minimum work commitment: 24 months in an HCA role after certification
Training Costs: Most of the financial burden is covered by AHS (note: some out-of-pocket costs apply)
Support: Weekly stipend provided throughout training
Coverage Locations: Rural and remote Alberta communities
Why most people choose this project
The AHS Government-Supported HCA Program is more than training—it’s a pathway to a stable, meaningful career with benefits. Participants will:
Make a Difference: Contribute to the health and well-being of patients, families, and communities
Earn While Completing Certification: Receive pay while working and studying toward a recognized HCA credential
Receive Professional Support: Learn from experienced nurses and healthcare teams
Advance Your Career: Access career growth opportunities in Alberta’s healthcare system
Enjoy Comprehensive Benefits: Access health coverage, retirement plans, and other employee benefits
HCA bursaries: The Government of Alberta offers grants of up to CAD 9,000 for students who enrolled in or graduated from a provincially approved Health Care Aide program on or after July 1, 2022.
Reference【Licensed Institutions】
Admission Requirements (Effective January 1, 2023)
Applicants must have:
Basic digital literacy
Academic English Language Arts proficiency
Approved English Language Proficiency test results
Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
Residence in a rural or remote Alberta community
No prior healthcare certification or experience is required
Alberta Health Services (AHS), one of Canada’s largest healthcare providers, offers this program to help residents in rural and remote areas start a secure and rewarding career in healthcare.
Where Training Takes Place
Training is delivered at AHS facilities with both in-person and online components.
Online assignments are completed outside of work hours, ensuring flexibility while maintaining a steady income.
Licensed Institutions
| Region | Institutions |
|---|---|
| Southern Alberta | ABM College, Academy of Learning, Alberta Business and Educational Services (ABES), Bow Valley College, Columbia College, Health Care Aide Academy, Keyano College |
| Central Alberta | University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak (Blue Quills University), Health Care Aide Academy |
| Northern Alberta | Northern Lakes College, Northwestern Polytechnic, Mikai'sto (Red Crow Community College) |
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of the AHS Health Care Assistant training program can work in:
Hospitals
Long-term care facilities
Home care agencies
Clinics
Rehabilitation centers
Community health organizations
How to Apply for the Government-Supported HCA Program
Government- Supported hca course application process
Visit the Alberta Health Services official website
Review program and eligibility requirements
Submit your online application
Begin your training and start earning while completing your certification