Credential:
Diploma
Program length
4 Terms
Area:
Community Studies
School:
School of Community Studies
Post-Graduation Work Permit:
Yes
No
Imagine a career where you help others reach their potential. This 16-month diploma program will equip you to support the well-being of people with disabilities. You will also learn how to create inclusive and diverse communities.
Program graduates may find work in leadership roles in many services that support people with disabilities. The organizations may include education and not-for-profit agencies, or you may work directly with families.
The program combines classroom learning with practical experience. Classes are generally scheduled between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
If you plan to take the diploma online, note that we do not offer all courses online every term. This means your program could last longer than 16 months.
If you plan to do your practicum outside of Alberta, you must speak to the Program Chair before applying for the program. Email communitystudies@bowvalleycollege.ca to connect with the Program Chair.
Additional information
The links below are examples of where you might work as a diploma graduate in Disability Studies:
Calgary SCOPE Society
The Calgary SCOPE Society is a non-profit agency improving lives for persons with developmental disabilities in Calgary and area for over 30 years! SCOPE works with children, adults, seniors and families as respected, contributing members of Calgary’s communities.
Heartland Agency
Heartland Agency and Educational Services is a non-profit organization providing care and education to children including special education.
New Age Services
New Age Services is a member of the Alberta Council of Disability Services.
Pacekids
Pacekids empowers children with diverse needs and their families through excellence in therapy, education, and play.
Providence
Providence Child Care offers early childhood programs, schools, and community services that help every child reach their potential
Renfrew Education Services
Renfrew Educational Services is a leader in program development for children with special needs.
There are also positions for education assistants in classrooms for children with a disability.
Springboard Centre for Adults with Disabilities
Springboard Centre assists adults with developmental disabilities to achieve meaning in their lives.
URSA
The mission of the Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency (URSA) is to develop and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to attain a personal level of achievement and excellence in life.
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Pre-practicum requirement
The Disability Studies program includes practicum placements in agencies where employers require a Police Information Check with a Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS). Results of this check may restrict opportunities for placement in a practicum. The Police Information Check must be obtained before the start of the practicum and may need to be renewed more than once while enrolled in a program.
Transfer opportunities are available to a variety of institutions. Transfer credits are reviewed and accepted on an individual basis by the institution to which you apply.
You need one of the following options:
For applicants whose first language is not English, please review English language proficiency requirements.
Enhance your previous education to meet the missing admissions requirements for one of the BVC programs.
September 2, 2025
January 7, 2026
Bow Valley College
345 - 6 Avenue SE,
Calgary, AB T2G 4V1
+1 403-410-1400
1-866-428-2669 (toll free)
