Three years ago, Lethbridge College introduced the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Education certificate program now offered through eCampusAlberta. This spring, the first seven students to complete the program received their certificates and three of them even traveled all the way to Lethbridge from Ontario to attend the convocation ceremonies.

“The students were very excited to participate in convocation and have told me they truly feel connected to this institution,” says Kimber Norbury-Sulin, Coordinator, Disability and Community Rehabilitation and FASD Education.

“They were so happy to finally put a face to each other and to those of us they have spoken to many times or had as instructors during their time at Lethbridge College,” Norbury-Sulin says.

The one-year certificate program, which can be taken full time or part time, addresses the growing need to understand how to better support individuals affected by FASD, which includes a complex brain-based spectrum of disabilities resulting from a pre-natal exposure to alcohol.

Norbury-Sulin says the skills and tools required to work specifically with those people affected by FASD are very different from conventional disability rehabilitation techniques.

“We are one of only a handful of post-secondary programs in Canada that offer skills related to supporting individuals affected by FASD,” she says.

“The program teaches real intervention techniques in addition to providing academic knowledge. When people find our program they’re ecstatic.”

While all courses are online, the program includes two practicum opportunities, which students complete in their own communities. Students, numbering around 30 at any given time, are from across Canada and are, for the most part, professionals already working in the human services field who want to supplement their knowledge.

“We decided to offer the program online because we felt we could reach more individuals. Since most of our students are working, online courses allow them to juggle work, home life and their studies.”

Students can enrol right out of high school and mature applicants lacking the academic prerequisites may seek alternate admission, which involves a review of their education and work experience. The program also offers a fast-track option for professionals who already hold a diploma or degree in a related discipline.

Norbury-Sulin says integration sessions or web conferences are an important part of the program.

“The integration sessions provide a virtual classroom where students can talk to each other, trade stories and discuss their practicum experiences. They allow students to feel connected to one another and supported by their instructors.”

Program graduates usually find careers in:

• Addictions support services
• Special education
• Employment support services
• Mental health
• Residential support services
• Foster care services
• Child and youth care services
• Family services and support
• Justice agencies

Graduates are also eligible to enter into year two of the Disability and Community Rehabilitation diploma program, which is also offered by Lethbridge College through eCampusAlberta.

Learn more at: www.ecampusalberta.ca

Learn more about Lethbridge College’s distance education programs and distributed learning strategy.