College Diploma - Social Service Worker (0009) at Conestoga College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

+11

Program overview

The Social Service Worker Diploma program at Conestoga College is a comprehensive 2-year program designed to equip students with essential skills in counselling, group work, and community development. This program emphasizes the importance of enhancing self-awareness, emotional maturity, and the pursuit of social justice. Students will learn to build relationships and work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals, families, and communities. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experiences, graduates will be well-prepared to contribute positively to society.

Program structure

The Social Service Worker Diploma program is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a period of 2 years. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online learning to accommodate various learning styles and schedules. Key features of the program include:

Emphasis on practical skills through role-playing and simulations.
Meaningful field experiences to apply learned concepts in real-world settings.
Opportunities for personal growth and education, especially for those who complete the Human Services Foundation certificate prior to enrollment.
Focus on interventions, complex systems, and sustainability of services.

Graduates of this program will have a strong foundation for social service practice, preparing them for various career paths in the field.

Featured Experiences

The Social Service Worker Diploma program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Field Experiences: Students engage in practical placements that allow them to apply their skills in real-world environments.
Role-Playing and Simulations: These activities help students develop critical interpersonal skills necessary for effective counselling and group work.
Hybrid Learning: The combination of online and in-person classes provides flexibility and accessibility for all students.
Community Engagement: Opportunities to work with various community organizations, fostering connections and practical experience.

Career Options

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

Social Service Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families in need, helping them navigate social services.
Community Development Worker: Work with communities to identify needs and develop programs that enhance social well-being.
Counsellor: Offer guidance and support to individuals facing personal challenges, helping them to develop coping strategies.
Case Manager: Coordinate services and support for clients, ensuring they receive the necessary resources for their well-being.
Advocate: Represent the interests of individuals or groups, working to influence policies and improve social justice.

These roles are vital in promoting social welfare and improving the quality of life for individuals and communities across Canada.

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

Visit Conestoga College official website

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the College Diploma - Social Service Worker program at Conestoga College, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status.

Note: See the Mature Student definition for details.
Grade 12 compulsory English, C (70% minimum) or U (60% minimum), or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1251), or equivalent.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents with transcripts from outside Canada require a course-by-course credential evaluation. You can request this at a reduced fee through the college by completing the Assessment of International Credentials for Admissions and Credit Transfer online form, or through an approved provider such as ICAS or WES.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to ensure that your academic credentials are recognized and evaluated appropriately. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for clarification and support.

Additionally, applicants should be aware of the following prerequisites:

Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed prior to student field/clinical placements. Successful placement completion is required for students to progress to program completion.
Students must present a Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) by the deadline indicated on the practicum package, which will be distributed in class in semester one. Police Checks must be clear of any unpardoned criminal offences.
Applicants should display integrity, reliability, maturity, determination, excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.
Computer literacy is necessary to complete assignments satisfactorily.
Some social service agencies require that employees be a minimum of 21 years of age; therefore, applicants under 19 years of age may have difficulty finding employment upon graduation.

Language Requirements

To apply for the College Diploma - Social Service Worker program at Conestoga College, you must provide proof of English proficiency in one of the following ways:

6.0 IELTS Academic (with no band less than 5.5)
80 TOEFL (Effective January 2024, no individual skill less than 20)

Please note: The above requirements are specifically for diploma programs. If you do not meet these English language skills for direct entry into full-time post-secondary programs, you may choose to enter Conestoga's General Arts and Science: English Language Studies program.

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