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Social Service Worker

A younger adult in a polo shirt with a nametag pinned to the front smiles at a person in front of them, while an older person with grey hair sits on a couch beside them.

A social service worker (SSW) helps people overcome personal and social challenges by offering supporting counselling and connecting them with resources. Prepare for a rewarding career fostering positive change in individuals, groups and communities.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Social Service Worker
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Two years
Start Date(s)
January (Winter)
May (Spring)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Port Hope
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Find your career

An SSW assists individuals who are experiencing social and personal challenges. Acknowledging the root causes may be societal in nature, resulting from the social determinants of health such as marginalization, oppression, stigma, colonization, and intergenerational trauma. Having acquired knowledge of human behaviour and development, the worker, through supportive counselling helps empower service recipients to make positive changes that effects individuals, groups, and communities. The SSW uses helper skills to empower individuals in obtaining resources that may enable them to improve upon their existing strengths. Services may include financial aid, counselling and life skills support. 

SSWs work with adults, seniors, children, families and youth in need of support. Prepare for a variety of job opportunities: 

  • Case workers. 
  • Social service positions with municipal, provincial and federal governments. 
  • Front-line workers in group homes, employment offices, corrections, residential treatment programs, community agencies, business and industry. 
  • An SSW may specialize in a particular field such as health, welfare, family services, immigration, employment, children’s services, education, gerontology, community outreach, addictions, mental health, income supports, or correctional services. 
  • Social service worker is a registered professional title that may only be used by members in good standing of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. 

This program had two placements, allowing firsthand experience in the community gaining knowledge required for most job opportunities.

Ashley, Social Service Worker

Our grads get great jobs

  • Program Facilitator, Canadian Mental Health Association 
  • Family Support Worker, Children’s Aid Society 
  • Residential Staff, St. Leonard’s Community Support, Prevention and Residential Services 
  • Coordinator for Social Service Programs, Community Care for Seniors 
  • Social Services Caseworker and Employment Counsellor, Ontario Works 
  • Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT), Quinte Health Care 
  • Emergency Shelter Workers, Three Oaks, Red Cedars, Grace Inn 
  • Crisis Response Worker, Victim Services HPELA

Is it for you?

Does this sound like you? Students who thrive in social service work are: 

  • Passionate about helping others. 
  • Seeking new challenges. 
  • Able to draw strength from their own life experiences. 
  • Interested in opportunities for personal growth.

The Social Service Worker diploma program prepared me for the various types of jobs we may encounter. I learned not only about the field but about who I am as a person and how that can play into work life and personal life.

Megan, Social Service Worker

How you'll learn

Experiential learning 

Learn to effectively support and empower people to make positive changes through relevant courses utilizing active learn­ing, skill-based learning and simulations, practical assessments: 

  • A combination of in-class learning and practical experience, including simulation, case studies, applied learning, field trips, skills practice, role play, and two field placements. 
  • Incorporate theory and practice with extensive group work. 
  • Develop essential skills in human relations, interpersonal communication, needs assessment and critical thinking. 
  • Practical is experience acquired through simulation, case studies, applied learning, field trips, skills practice, role play, and field placements. You’ll have an opportunity to practise skills and methods of helping through case management, group, or community outreach. 
  • Practise interviewing and counselling skills in a soundproof lab with a two-way mirror for observation and feedback. 
  • As well as faculty instruction, the opportunity to learn from engaging industry experts and guest speakers working in the SSW field.  
  • Rate your strengths and areas of greater focus with ongoing self-assessment. 
  • Graduates are eligible to join the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and to use the title Registered Social Service Worker (OCSWSSW). 

Outstanding faculty make the difference 

Learn with dedicated, caring faculty with front-line experience in a variety of human service settings: 

  • Professors with backgrounds in child protection, prevention programming, addiction, corrections, social services and family counselling continue to work in their fields, bringing the most up-to-date industry knowledge and practices to the classroom. 
  • Find the right job experience for your career path, working with our dedicated SSW placement coordinator. 
  • Our program has a learner-centred approach. The staff values you, the student, first and foremost. We recognize and appreciate that you entered the program with many talents and abilities acquired from a variety of previous work and life experiences. We will work with you at building a learning community that is based upon trust, acceptance and cooperation. We encourage you to help other students as this contributes to a positive learning environment and to your success in the program. You are encouraged to take responsibility for your learning and to become self-directed. 

Courses

COMM1048 College Writing Skills

This course focuses on writing and research skills required for successful completion of college-level studies. The course will promote development and improvement of research and writing skills that can be applied to students’ chosen programs of study.

PSYC1015 Development Across the Lifespan

This course is designed for the learner to examine human development across the lifespan, including the impact of genetics and environment on developmental outcomes from conception to death. The learner will be able to identify biological, cognitive, and psychosocial variables that impact the capacity for resilience and growth of individuals, families, and communities. The learner will identify and evaluate strategies to meet the diverse needs and experiences of individuals, groups, families, and communities in adherence to social service worker standards of practice.

SSWP1000 Relational Approach to Awareness

This course is designed for the learner to develop the capacity to plan and implement anti-oppressive, strengths-based practice in responsive programs and services that meet the diverse needs of all individuals, groups, families, and communities, including the capacity to work with indigenous communities while respecting their inherent rights. This is a structured learning experience that is designed to facilitate the examination of intrapersonal and interpersonal self-awareness and the acquisition of knowledge and comprehension. The learner will develop strategies and approaches to implement and maintain holistic self-care in an ever-changing and diversified world.

SOCI1007 Sociological Foundations of Social Service Work

This course is designed for the learner to examine the diverse needs and experiences of all individuals, families, groups, and communities in the context of social policy, political/social/historical, and economic systems. Through the development of a Sociological Imagination, the learner will be able to identify and address their impact on service delivery by employing a structural lens to understand personal struggles.

SSWP1010 Theory of Relationship Development

This course is designed for the learner to develop respectful, collaborative, and interpersonal relationships to work effectively in a team-oriented social service environment. The learner will be introduced to the theory of group work using an experiential approach. The structured learning experiences will enable learners to develop their group skills and become productive members of a team. The learner will be able to identify strategies and approaches to implement and maintain holistic self-care as a member of a human service profession.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

COMM1055 Diversity, Marginalization & Oppression

This course will enable students to recognize the diverse needs and experiences of individuals, groups, families and communities and identify change strategies that promote social and economic justice and challenge patterns of oppression and discrimination.

ETHI1017 Ethical Considerations & Professional Practice

Students will examine the role of a professional social service worker within the context of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Students will develop appropriate professional decision-making skills and knowledge to practice within an ethical framework. Students will acquire field placement and career readiness skills through learning about professional development, reflective practices, and professional standards.

COUN1030 Foundational Concepts in Interviewing & Counselling

This course is designed to help participants recognize the need to develop and maintain professional relationships, identify strengths, resources and challenges of individuals, families, groups and communities to assist them in achieving their goals.

COMM1078 Preparation for Social Service Work, Field, and Professional Communication

This course is designed for the learner to develop effective communication skills that include the collection and documentation of information accurately. The learner will be able to communicate professionally in written, digital, verbal, and non-verbal ways in adherence to the social service worker standards of practice. Students will develop professional career readiness through job search plans, job interview skills and preparation of career search documentation. Prerequisite: COMM 1048

PSYC1005 The Mental Health Continuum

Students examine the causes of abnormal behavior, psychological factors and physical illness as well as major psychological disorders. This course is not intended to help students solve behavioural or emotional problems requiring professional assessment and response. Prerequisite: PSYC 1015

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

COUN2022 Applied Concepts: Interviewing & Counselling

This course focuses on progressive learning of communication and supportive counselling skills. A programmed approach to advance development of interview skills is combined with the use of digital recording and self-assessment. Topics covered include learning to structure a full counselling interview, understanding the skills required, and the ability to assess competencies and plan improvement strategies. Prerequisite: COUN 1030

SSWP2006 Case Management & Service Coordination

This course focuses on the case management skills required for the field of social service work. Students will learn the roles and responsibilities associated with client service delivery, and will demonstrate standard case management practices from intake to file closure. Grounded in an empowerment-based approach, this course will examine the complexities of providing support to and planning with service recipients. This includes a review of the legal and ethical requirements of social service workers.

SSWP1002 Delivering Human Services

Students will learn to broker and advocate for appropriate access to resources to assist individuals, families, groups and communities through the creation of professional networks, while identifying current social policy, relevant legislation and political, social and/or economic systems and acknowledging their impacts on service delivery.

WKPL2084 Field Practicum 1

This course will provide learners with an opportunity to apply their knowledge of social service work through an in-depth inquiry into the types, breadth and requirements for specific placements within the SSW field through a robust collaborative planning process with the placement coordinator and faculty. In a supervised environment, students will begin to explore opportunities to execute critical professional performance elements, such as in-person assessment, advocacy, collaboration and documentation, all within the OCSWSSW scope of practice. Prerequisite: COMM 1078, COMM 1048, SSWP 1000, SSWP 1010, PSYC 1015, SOCI 1007, COMM 1055, PSYC 1005, ETHI 1017

SOCI2005 Working with Families

Participants will examine the multiple variations in family structure and the changing role of the Canadian family in today’s society. Various styles and problems of modern family living will be explored using current literature and personal life experiences. The course will focus on issue and personal awareness and implications for service delivery using family-centred and strength-based approaches.

SSWP2010 Building Community Capacity

This course is about community development and promoting social change and social justice. Learners will learn about social activism and how individuals and movements have had major positive impacts in changing oppressive practices. Learners will be able to identify community needs and gaps in service, design a program to address the need and write a formal funding proposal.

WKPL2085 Field Practicum 2

This course will provide learners with an opportunity to extend their existing knowledge of placement through an in-depth inquiry into the types, breadth and requirements for specific placements within the SSW field through a robust collaborative planning process with the placement coordinator. In a supervised environment, students will continue to explore opportunities to execute critical professional performance elements, such as in-person assessment, advocacy, collaboration and documentation, all within the OCSWSSW scope of practice. Prerequisite: WKPL 2084

SSWP2011 Indigenous Perspectives

Learners will demonstrate the ability to utilize a trauma informed approach, identify culturally safe practices, respect and support self-determination, and promote justice, equality and access to appropriate services with Indigenous individuals and communities.

SOCI1008 Law & Legislation for Social Service Worker

This course supports the development of an inclusive practice framework for social service workers including social policy, law and a range of problem-solving methods that promote human rights, social justice and social cohesion. Prerequisite: SOCI 1007

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

*Courses subject to change.

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Admission 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

OR 

Additional requirements 

  • Standard First Aid and Level “C” CPR certification. 
  • Current criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check. 
  • Prospective students with special needs or limitations that may affect their practicum/field placement or potential employment opportunities are encouraged to discuss their program and career goals with faculty prior to admission. 
  • Strong computer and communication skills (written and oral) are critical. 
  • You must be prepared for full-time studies and placement, and a heavy workload. The program is academically and emotionally demanding. The field of social service work requires proficiency in time management and stress management 

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences. 

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.  

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Total: $4,089.08 
  • Additional Program Costs: Approximately $200 – $250 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc. Some placements may require transportation, a valid driver’s license, and/or access to a motor vehicle.  

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.   

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • International Tuition: $15,000 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659 
  • Total: $17,026 
  • Additional Program Costs: Approximately $200 – $250 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc. Some placements may require transportation, a valid driver’s license, and/or access to a motor vehicle.  

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.   

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Further study

Pathways and university transfer 

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma or a post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.  

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