Question 1

What is Northwood Career College?

Accepted Answer

Northwood Career College (NCC) is a provincially licensed private career college, approved by the Nova Scotia Department of Education to deliver the Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program. NCC was founded by Northwood, one of Atlantic Canada's largest not-for-profit continuing care organizations, with over 60 years of experience serving Nova Scotians across long-term care, home care, retirement living, assisted living, adult day programs, and community wellness.

Question 2

What is a Continuing Care Assistant?

Accepted Answer

A CCA is a regulated healthcare professional who provides personal care and support to older adults and individuals with complex needs, supporting people with daily activities such as personal hygiene, dressing, mobility, meals, and companionship, always with a focus on dignity, comfort, and person-centred care. The Nova Scotia Government reports that CCAs earn between $43,000 and $48,000 annually.

Question 3

How long is the program and what does it include?

Accepted Answer

The program is 6 months in length and includes 11 CCA curriculum courses, 6 external certificate courses, and 204 hours of placement in real care settings. Cohort 3 begins October 5, 2026. There are 20 seats available.

Question 4

What is the class schedule?

Accepted Answer

Classes run Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM at our Halifax Campus. Laboratory sessions and clinical placements may be scheduled on evenings and/or weekends. A minimum of 90% attendance is required; 100% attendance is mandatory for all lab and clinical sessions.

Question 5

Is the program available online?

Accepted Answer

No. The CCA program is 100% in-person at our Halifax Campus. There is no online or hybrid option.

Question 6

What makes NCC different from other CCA programs?

Accepted Answer

NCC is the only CCA program in Nova Scotia where you train inside the care organization itself. Instructors are active practitioners in Northwood care settings. Placements happen within Northwood facilities. Your credential comes with a direct employment pathway at one of Atlantic Canada's most established care organizations, with 60+ years of expertise behind every lesson, and small class sizes for a personal learning experience.