School of Community Studies

Be a leader in building stronger communities.

why choose us

About us

You can have a positive impact in your community while you build a rewarding career. Start with a certificate or diploma, or expand your current career options with a post-diploma certificate and continuing education courses.

Turn your passion for helping others into a career. Our Community Studies programs prepare you to create real social impact in fields like social work, justice studies, and disability studies.  You'll gain valuable experience through community-based projects and internships, guided by expert faculty. Drive innovation and support to create thriving, sustainable communities.

The School of Community Studies helps shape future community leaders. Community is at the heart of everything we do. We train students to build connections, support others, and create lasting change through progress. With expert guidance and a focus on integrity, graduates are ready to make a difference.

Diverse Program Offerings

A wide range of programs, including Justice Studies, Addiction Studies, Disability Studies, Early Childhood Education and Development, Education Assistant, Social Work, and Child and Youth Care.

Multiple Career Pathways

With a solid foundation in community studies, you’ll be ready to pursue careers in social work, law enforcement, or continue your education to unlock even more opportunities.

Focus on Community-Driven Impact

Students engage in community projects and initiatives that support underserved populations. These opportunities allow students to make a meaningful difference while developing the skills needed to work in diverse and underrepresented communities.

94%
Graduate Employment Rate
97%
Program Quality Satisfaction
Curt Blind
Peer Support Worker, Calgary Drop In & Rehab Centre Society

"While we are out in the field,  we serve vulnerable and marginalized populations.  Taking care of ourselves is of the utmost importance, and Bow Valley College has provided me with the resources to further my career and my well-being.”

The possibilities are endless

Our Programs

Certificate
|
2 Terms
Education Assistant
Support students and make a difference in the classroom.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

January 2027

See program details >
Post-Diploma Certificate
|
2 Terms
Health and Human Services Management
Become a leader in health and human services. Develop skills and knowledge in management by building on your health or human services diploma or degree.
This program is no longer being offered and is not accepting new applications. See program page for more details.
See program details >
Certificate
|
2 Terms
Disability Studies
Building inclusive communities through knowledge and practice.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

See program details >
Diploma
|
4 Terms
Addiction Studies
Do you want to become an addiction practitioner? You will enjoy both classroom and practicum learning opportunities in this program. Let us help you reach your goal.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

January 2027

See program details >
Diploma
|
6 Terms
Social Work
Make a real difference with a rewarding career in just two years—this dynamic program prepares you to support diverse communities. Ready to get started?

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

September 2026

See program details >
Diploma
|
4 Terms
Early Childhood Education and Development
Make a difference in the lives of children, families, and communities by providing, and leading, quality early learning and child care in many settings.

Starts in

Domestic
International

May 2026

September 2026

January 2027

See program details >
Diploma
|
4 Terms
Disability Studies
Turn your passion for helping others into a meaningful career.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

See program details >
Certificate
|
2 Terms
Early Childhood Education and Development
Make a difference in the lives of children, families, and communities by providing, and leading, quality early learning and child care in many settings.

Starts in

Domestic
International

May 2026

September 2026

January 2027

See program details >
Diploma
|
4 Terms
Child and Youth Care
Guide, support, and empower children and youth every day.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

See program details >
Diploma
|
4 Terms
Justice Studies
Do you want a career in justice? A Justice Studies Diploma opens doors to many opportunities.

Starts in

Domestic
International

September 2026

January 2027

See program details >

Graduate ready to make a difference in your communities.

Gain the skills to make a meaningful impact in social work, community development, the nonprofit sector, social enterprises, and social economy organizations, all while helping create stronger, more efficient communities.

Help to transform communities.

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