The Institute is a registered private college whose mission is to deliver top quality educational programs to those persons wishing to work in the human services field in a variety of professional settings. IHSE was originally founded in 1976 and was known as Child Development Services, a joint project of the Nova Scotia Departments of Education and Community Services. In 1992, CDS incorporated as a private college under the name of the Institute for Early Childhood Education and Developmental Services. In June of 2002, the Board of Governors decided to rename the college the Institute for Human Services Education. It is felt that this name is more inclusive of our diverse programs and of the types of services we offer.

The Institute is recognized both nationally and internationally for its certificate and diploma programs, which include Early Childhood Education Diploma, Special Education Diploma, Public School Program Assistant Certificate, and Youth Worker Diploma. In addition, the Institute offers an Atlantic Summer School for Care Givers and Educators, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition, and customized and certificate programs such as Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and First Aid.

IHSE does not own and operate on-campus housing. However, students have access to a co-ed residence operated by another educational institution located less than one kilometre from the IHSE campus. The approximate rate for a double room and meals is $5,000

IHSE compiles an off campus housing list each spring. Please download this list from our website and print it off for reference.