Social Service Worker Program

Program Overview

Niagara College's Social Service Worker program is a 2-year diploma designed to prepare individuals for careers in social services. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, anti-oppressive approaches, and professional ethics. Graduates are eligible for membership in the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and are prepared for roles in various social service settings, including addictions centers, community mental health agencies, and child welfare agencies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Social Service Worker program at Niagara College is a 2-year diploma program designed for individuals passionate about social equity and making a meaningful impact on disadvantaged individuals, groups, and communities.

Objectives:

• Graduates are prepared for membership in the Ontario College of Social Work and Social Service Work, adhering to their established vocational learning outcomes.
• The program equips students to assist clients in dealing with personal and social problems by delivering counselling, community services, and social support programs.

Program Description:

• The program is structured through a group supervision model, requiring regular attendance and engagement in on-campus classes.
• It emphasizes hands-on experiential learning through case studies, video simulations, and small group discussions.
• The program incorporates an anti-oppressive approach, responding to changes in the social services field.
• Certification in non-violent crisis intervention is available.
• A dual admission agreement with Niagara University allows students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Social Work.

Teaching:

• The program features over 600 hours of practical field placement experience, supported by a field placement officer and often leading to employment.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in social service settings, including:
• Addictions centres
• Community mental health agencies
• Correctional facilities
• Child welfare agencies
• Department of health and human services
• Hospitals or medical clinics
• Schools or youth settings
• Seniors' homes

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of professional responsibility, ethical conduct, and adherence to the Code of Ethics of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
• Students are required to complete a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening (CRC-VSS) before the start of Term 2.
• Students must complete a Communicable Disease Surveillance (CDS) Form prior to the start of the program.
• Students are responsible for their own transportation to complete program requirements, including field placements and off-campus visits.
• Students are required to have a Microsoft Windows 10 based desktop or laptop system that meets specific technical requirements.
• The program offers preferred admission to qualified graduates of the Pre-Community Services program at Niagara College.
• The program provides opportunities for transfer credits for applicants with previous postsecondary education.
• The program offers a variety of scholarships and awards to help students fund their education.