Developmental Services Worker at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

The Developmental Services Worker program is a two-year Ontario College Diploma designed to equip students with the skills necessary to support individuals of all ages with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. This rewarding career focuses on enhancing the daily lives of children, youth, and adults by facilitating their independence, citizenship, and social living. Students learn to provide respectful support that honors the dignity and individuality of each person. The program combines experiential learning with outcome-based theory, preparing graduates for diverse roles in educational, community, and social service settings.

Program structure

The Developmental Services Worker program spans a two-year period, during which students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical components. Key aspects of the program structure include:

Field Placements: Students complete a series of field placements totaling close to 600 hours, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Experiential Learning: The program emphasizes hands-on experiences, preparing students for various roles such as Educational Assistant and Community Support/Residential Counsellor.
Program Options: Opportunities for co-op placements and internships may be available, enhancing practical learning.

This structure ensures that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation, equipped with the necessary skills and experiences to succeed in their careers.

Featured Experiences

The Developmental Services Worker program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance student learning and professional development:

Field Placements: Students gain hands-on experience in diverse settings, working directly with individuals with disabilities.
Community Partnerships: The program has strong ties with local organizations, providing students with networking opportunities and potential job placements.
Job Fairs: Annual job fairs are hosted to connect students with employers in the field, facilitating employment opportunities before graduation.
Experiential Learning: The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and practical lab experiences, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Career Options

Graduates of the Developmental Services Worker program can pursue a variety of fulfilling career paths in Canada. Some potential job roles include:

Educational Assistant: Support teachers in the classroom by assisting students with special needs in their learning processes.
Developmental Assistant: Work directly with individuals with developmental disabilities to enhance their daily living skills and independence.
Special Needs Worker: Provide care and support to individuals with special needs in various settings, including homes and community programs.
Residential Counsellor: Assist individuals living in group homes or residential facilities, promoting their well-being and social integration.
Employment Specialist: Help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
Life Skills Instructor: Teach essential life skills to individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and self-sufficiency.
Vocational Instructor: Provide training and support to individuals with disabilities in vocational settings, preparing them for the workforce.
Family Support Worker: Offer assistance and resources to families of individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate challenges and access services.
Support Network Facilitator: Coordinate support services and resources for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive comprehensive care.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Algonquin College official website

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Health Requirements:

The physical and emotional health of each applicant to the program must be such that he or she can successfully cope with the program of instruction including the demands of field placement (e.g. stress and time management; physical care and self-help skills of children and adults). Individuals who have concerns about their ability to meet these requirements should contact the coordinator of the program prior to submitting an application.

Field Placement Eligibility:

To be eligible for placement, you must submit proof of Standard First Aid certification, CPR level C, Quality Assurance Measures Certification, Worker Safety Standard Certification, PRCSVS and complete immunizations through ParaMed. ParaMed services are the third-party provider who collects all field placement documentation for the Community Studies department. Students should plan for extra costs associated with these requirements.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Developmental Services Worker program, applicants must meet the following language proficiency requirements:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic): Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band.
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT): Overall score of 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component:
- Reading: 22
- Listening: 22
- Speaking: 22
- Writing: 22
Duolingo English Test (DET): Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
May 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
September 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available