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Social Service Worker (Accelerated) (SSWA)
Starts in May
Location
Duration
3 Semesters (1 Year)Credential Awarded
Ontario College DiplomaSchool
School of Community ServicesAbout the Program
This accelerated program provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive contribution in the human service field. Demanding and fast-paced, this program requires you to be in good academic standing and capable of challenging your own beliefs and values, promote social justice, human dignity and equity in preparation for the workforce.
This program is designed for those who have completed a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences or another undergraduate degree. This program consists of a 7-week intensive summer semester (Semester 1) starting in early May each year, followed by a regular academic year commencing the day after Labour Day and concluding in mid-April (Semesters 2 and 3).
Upon graduation from this program, you will be eligible for registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).
Skills
Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:
- Self-examination of your own beliefs and values
Interpersonal communication
Ability to promote social justice, human dignity and equity
Work Experience
Field Placement
As a student of this program, if you meet all the academic requirements, you will have the opportunity to participate in a field placement. Field placements are similar in length to an academic semester and typically involve full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid.
In order to be eligible for field work, you will be required to meet the criteria as set out in the "Social Service Worker Program Student Code of Conduct". In the placement, you will benefit from supervision and have specified hours, duties and accountabilities to both the college and agency representative.
The minimum commitment is the successful completion of specific periods as set out in the field placement student contract.
You can expect to spend 20 to 25 hours each week on assignments, as well as two days per week in field placement in semester two as well as two days per week in semester three.
Your Career
When you graduate from this program, these are the types of employers waiting for you:
- Shelters, group homes, community centres
Social assistance agencies
Community development
Rehabilitation and mental health organizations