Mental Health And Addiction Support Worker at NorQuest College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-05-07

Program overview

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Program overview

The Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker program at NorQuest College prepares students for a rewarding career in supporting individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. This diploma program focuses on equipping students with the necessary skills to provide effective, recovery-oriented support. Students will learn to build trusting relationships, apply trauma-informed approaches, and assist clients in accessing essential care. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Program structure

The Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker program is structured over a duration of 4 terms, providing a comprehensive educational experience. Key features of the program include:

In-person classes with face-to-face instruction.
Completion of 100 hours of community volunteering integrated into coursework.
A 150-hour practicum placement to gain real-world experience.
Utilization of virtual-reality simulations for skill application.

This program is designed to support students in developing practical skills and confidence, preparing them for various roles in the mental health and addiction support field.

Featured Experiences

The Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Community Service Learning: Students engage in community volunteering, allowing them to connect with local services that support individuals affected by mental health and addiction challenges.
Practicum Placements: Students gain hands-on experience through a full-time practicum, which may include day, evening, or weekend shifts.
Virtual-Reality Simulations: Developed in partnership with the Olson Centre for Health Simulation, these simulations prepare students for real-life scenarios they may encounter in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker: Provide direct support to individuals in recovery, helping them navigate their treatment plans.
Recovery Support Worker: Assist clients in achieving their recovery goals through guidance and support.
Outreach Worker: Engage with communities to connect individuals with necessary resources and services.
Mental Health Navigator: Help clients access mental health services and support systems.
Mental Health Aide: Support healthcare professionals in delivering care to individuals with mental health challenges.
Addiction Treatment Program Aide: Assist in the implementation of addiction treatment programs.
Community Liaison Worker: Act as a bridge between clients and community resources.
Recovery Coach: Provide motivation and support to individuals in their recovery journey.
Mental Health Crisis Response Worker: Respond to mental health emergencies and provide immediate support.
Indigenous Housing Support Worker: Assist Indigenous individuals in accessing housing and support services.
Independent Living Support Worker: Help clients develop skills for independent living.

This program also offers pathways for further education in counseling or psychotherapy, enhancing career prospects in the mental health field.

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

Visit NorQuest College official website

Last updated on 2026-05-07

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker program has specific academic requirements that applicants must meet to be considered for admission. Here are the details:

Minimum GPA: A minimum term grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 is required to remain in good academic standing throughout the program. Additionally, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 in the program’s courses is necessary to qualify for graduation.

Prerequisite Courses: Applicants must meet the following Language Arts requirements:

50% in English Language Arts 30-1
65% in English Language Arts 30-2
50% in ESLG 1860
65% in ESLG 1898

Alternatively, applicants may meet their academic requirements through a free academic assessment. For more information, please contact LOA Portal's advisors for clarification and support.

Practicum/Work Experience Requirements: Before attending the practicum, students must provide:

A clear Police Information Check (a Vulnerable Sector Check is also needed if over 18 years of age).
An up-to-date immunization record.

These documents are required for Year 2 of the program and must not be dated more than six months before the practicum start date. If documentation is not submitted by the deadline, students may need to defer their practicum.

International students must obtain a co-op work permit before beginning the work-integrated learning component of the program. A medical exam may also be required. For further details, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors.

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

Language Requirements

If English is your second language, you must provide proof of English language proficiency before admission. These results must be no more than two years old when you start your program.

Test scores we accept:

IELTS Academic: 6.5; no section score below 6
TOEFL iBT: 84; no section score below 21
Cambridge English Language Assessment: 180; no section score below 165
CAEL: 70; no section score below 70
PTE Academic: 59; no section score below 56
ILAC: Pathway 3.3
Duolingo: 115
Minimum of:
- 80% in ESLS 8000 or ESLS 8100, and 80% in ESLW 8000 or ESLW 8100; or
- 50% in ESLG 1898 and ESLG 1899
- 50% in ESLG 1860 and ESLG 1861

To be accepted, all applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency (ELP). Explore the five ways you can meet this requirement at NorQuest.

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!