Social Service Worker

Program Overview

The Centennial College Social Service Worker program prepares students to become critical practitioners, advocates, problem solvers, and agents of social change. This program focuses on the expanding roles and responsibilities of social service workers in a rapidly changing society. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to support diverse individuals, families, groups, and communities, enhancing their overall well-being. The program integrates principles, philosophies, skills, and theories of social service work through an anti-oppressive and social justice framework. Graduates will meet the educational requirements for registration as social service workers in the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).

This program is delivered through a combination of modalities, including face-to-face, online, and blended learning approaches.

Program Structure

The Social Service Worker program is designed to be completed in 2 years, consisting of 4 semesters. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for various roles in the social service sector. Key features of the program structure include:

• Integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
• Field placements that provide hands-on experience in real-world settings.
• Opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with other programs.
• Access to a Specialized Academic Certificate in Indigenous Knowledges: First Peoples in Canada.

Students will engage in critical thinking and reflective practice, examining social policies, community development, and advocacy strategies. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and professional competencies in social service work.

Featured Experiences

• Two specialized field placements, allowing students to apply classroom learning in various settings, including community centers, shelters, and social service agencies.
• Opportunities for international field placements in the final semester, fostering global perspectives in social service work.
• Community engagement projects, including developing funding proposals and social action plans.
• Simulated client interviews and assessments to enhance practical skills.
• Collaboration with other programs within the college, such as Early Childhood Education and Nursing.

Career Options

Graduates of the Social Service Worker program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Intake Worker: Responsible for assessing client needs and determining eligibility for services.
• Youth Worker: Works with young people to provide support, guidance, and resources for personal development.
• Employment Counsellor: Assists individuals in finding employment opportunities and developing job search skills.
• Mental Health Worker: Provides support and resources to individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
• Community Outreach Worker: Engages with community members to promote services and resources available to them.

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