Developmental Services Worker at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-04

Program overview

Program Overview

The Developmental Services Worker program is designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities throughout their lives. This program emphasizes the importance of community inclusion, meaningful participation, and full citizenship for those with developmental challenges. Students will learn to develop and implement support plans that foster self-determination and healthy lifestyles, while also gaining skills to work with children and adults in various settings. Core values such as social justice, empowerment, dignity, and integrity are central to the training, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to advocate for and support individuals with developmental disabilities.

Program Structure

The Developmental Services Worker program is structured over a period of four semesters, providing a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The program is delivered in person, allowing students to engage directly with instructors and peers. Key features of the program include:

Hands-on learning through field placements, integrating theory with practice.
Opportunities to develop personalized support plans for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Training in advocacy skills to champion the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Focus on community inclusion and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

Students will also have the chance to participate in work-integrated learning experiences, which illuminate their career paths and enhance their employability upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

Three field placements that provide real-world experience in community settings.
Training in working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
Development of strong advocacy skills for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Emphasis on ethical and accountable professional relationships.
Opportunities to work in various environments, including educational, recreational, and residential settings.

Career Options

Graduates of the Developmental Services Worker program can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in Canada, including:

Developmental Services Worker: Support individuals with developmental disabilities in various settings, helping them lead fulfilling lives.
Inclusion Facilitator: Assist organizations in creating inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities.
Employment Support Worker: Help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment, providing guidance and support.
Educational Assistant: Support teachers in classrooms, working with students who have developmental disabilities.
Family Support Worker: Provide resources and assistance to families of individuals with developmental disabilities, fostering connections and support.

These roles are typically found in community living organizations, educational settings, autism support agencies, and mental health facilities, among others.

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

Visit Durham College official website

Last updated on 2026-02-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Developmental Services Worker program has specific academic requirements that prospective students must meet to be eligible for admission. Here are the key requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
Grade 12 English (C or U)

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to ensure that your educational qualifications are equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. If you have any questions or need assistance with the evaluation of your credentials, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For students who may not meet the admission requirements, Durham College offers pre-admission assessment testing for mature domestic applicants. This is available for those who are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program and do not have the required program credits, such as Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 Math.

Furthermore, Durham College provides Academic Upgrading courses that are FREE and designed to help individuals meet the admissions requirements for this program. These courses are available to individuals aged 18 and older and are offered on campus. The courses include:

Grade 12 Math (MAP4C equivalent)
Grade 12 English (ENG4C equivalent)
Grade 11 Biology (SBI3C equivalent)
Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4C equivalent)

If you have any further questions or need clarification regarding the admission requirements, please do not hesitate to contact LOA Portal's advisors for assistance.

Language Requirements

For the Developmental Services Worker program, applicants must meet the following English language proficiency requirements:

Grade 12 English (C or U) (English Speaking Countries only); or
IELTS Academic minimum 6.0 overall bands with no band less than 5.5; or
TOEFL 80, with no section score less than 20; or
DuoLingo (DET) minimum 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!