Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-04

Program overview

Program Overview

The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to assist individuals with daily living activities. This includes support with personal hygiene, mobility, medication management, and nutrition. As a front-line care provider, PSWs play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for clients across various settings, including community care and institutional environments. The program emphasizes compassionate, client-centered care, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their clients. With a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience through work practicums, students will graduate job-ready and capable of making a significant impact in the lives of those they serve.

Program Structure

The Personal Support Worker program is structured to be completed over a two-semester period, with three intakes available each year in September, January, and May. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

  • Two semesters of study, totaling 8 months.
  • Classes are scheduled on weekends, allowing students to maintain employment while studying.
  • In-person attendance is required for theoretical courses on Friday evenings and weekends.
  • Practicum placements may occur on weekdays or weekends, with schedules determined by community partners.
  • Students are encouraged to be flexible with their availability to meet practicum requirements.

This program is ideal for those seeking a flexible full-time study option while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

Featured Experiences

The Personal Support Worker program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and prepare students for real-world challenges:

  • Hands-on experience through supervised practicums in community and institutional settings.
  • Integrated palliative and end-of-life care training, preparing students for specialized roles.
  • Opportunities to obtain recognized certificates, including Palliative Care and Feeding Assistance.
  • Access to state-of-the-art simulation labs for practical skill development.
  • Small group instruction in both practicum and laboratory settings, fostering personalized learning.

These experiences ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also confident in their ability to provide high-quality care.

Career Options

Graduates of the Personal Support Worker program can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in the healthcare sector. Here are some potential job options:

  • Personal Support Worker: Provide direct care and support to clients in their homes or healthcare facilities, assisting with daily living activities.
  • Home Care Aide: Work with clients in their residences, offering companionship and assistance with personal care and household tasks.
  • Long-Term Care Aide: Support residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring their comfort and well-being through daily assistance.
  • Community Support Worker: Collaborate with community service agencies to provide care and support to individuals with various needs.
  • Palliative Care Assistant: Assist healthcare teams in providing compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families.

These roles are vital in addressing the growing demand for healthcare services, especially as Canada's population ages and care needs become more complex.

 

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

Visit Durham College official website