Developmental Services Worker at Loyalist College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-08-20

Program overview

The Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program at Loyalist College prepares students to assist individuals with disabilities, enabling them to become valued and contributing members of their communities. This program emphasizes support and advocacy, aiming for full inclusion and betterment of society as a whole. Graduates will be equipped with the skills necessary to provide essential services to people of all ages with disabilities, enhancing their participation in community life.

Program structure

The Developmental Services Worker program is structured over a duration of four semesters. It is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through various learning methods. Key features of the program structure include:

Field Placements: Students will engage in three faculty-supervised field placements, starting with 10 weeks in the second semester and increasing to twelve weeks in the third and fourth semesters.
Experiential Learning: The curriculum promotes individualized and inclusive approaches, allowing students to apply theory in real-world settings.
Hands-on Skills Development: Students will develop skills to support individuals with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and autism.
Community Connections: The program encourages collaboration with community resources to enhance the support provided to individuals with disabilities.

Students will also have opportunities to participate in co-op placements, which further enrich their learning experience and prepare them for future employment.

Featured Experiences

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

Field Placements: Students will complete three field placements, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Hands-on Learning: The program emphasizes experiential learning, enabling students to develop practical skills in supporting individuals with disabilities.
Community Engagement: Students will connect with local organizations and resources, fostering relationships that benefit both their education and the community.
Supportive Faculty: The program features passionate faculty members who are dedicated to student success and have extensive experience in the field.
Collaborative Learning: Students will work alongside peers and professionals, enhancing their teamwork and communication skills.

Career Options

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

Educational Assistant: Support students with disabilities in educational settings, helping them to achieve their academic goals.
Community Support Worker: Provide assistance to individuals with disabilities in community settings, promoting their independence and inclusion.
Residential Counsellor: Work in residential facilities, offering support and guidance to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Integration Facilitator: Help individuals with disabilities integrate into community programs and activities, fostering social connections.
Family Support Worker: Provide respite and support services to families of individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate challenges and access resources.

These roles not only contribute to the well-being of individuals with disabilities but also enhance the overall quality of life within the community.

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

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Last updated on 2026-08-20

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Required academic preparation

OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent

Mature applicant

Additional requirements for placement (not required before admission)

Standard First Aid and Level “C” CPR certification.
Criminal record check with vulnerable sector screening. If you have been convicted of an offence under the Criminal Code for which you have not been pardoned, you may be ineligible for field placement; please contact the program coordinator to discuss your options.
All DSW field placements extend throughout the semester, for six hours per day, two to three days per week. Students entering the program must be able to arrange their schedules to accommodate placement days. Up-to-date immunizations are required prior to placement.

*Additional materials, trainings and certifications may be required depending on industry partner requirements connected to experiential learning. Pre-placement requirements are subject to change based on placement agency and/or legislative or regulatory changes.

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

International students

For international students, it is essential to meet the academic requirements as outlined above. If you have specific questions or need assistance with the application process, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Developmental Services Worker program at Loyalist College, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English language proficiency tests are accepted:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- 550 (paper-based test)
- 80 (iBT internet-based test with minimums of 20)
IELTS (International English Language Test Service)
- 6.0 overall with no band under 6.0 (generic category)
- 6.5 overall with no bands less than 6.0*
- 7.0 overall with no bands less than 6.5

CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment)

Overall band of 60, writing 60

Cambridge English Exam

C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency

Duolingo English Test*
- 105+ (equivalent to IELTS 6.5) – no band lower than 90
OI Digital Institute (Oxford ELLT)
- ELLT 6 (IELTS 6.0)

Note: For the Developmental Services Worker program, the minimum IELTS score required is 6.0 overall with no band under 6.0.

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!