Through online learning and hands-on placement experience within your local community, get the skills you need to start a rewarding career as a Developmental Services Worker (DSW). DSWs provide support and advocacy, empowering individuals with disabilities to thrive.

 

DSWs support people of all ages with disabilities, enhancing their presence and participation in community life. Graduates find rewarding positions: 

• Providing respite support for families. 
• Providing in-home support to help people maintain independence. 
• In community agencies as residential counsellors and vocational coaches, helping people find meaningful activities. 
• In schools as educational assistants and with not-for-profit organizations. 
• As activation directors in residential programs and long-term care facilities. 

 

Experiential learning

Through a unique combination of online learning and placements in your community, learn to effectively support people with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, autism, and people with a dual diagnosis:

• Develop hands-on skills that will help people grow, develop relationships, and actively participate in their community.
• Identify and connect people to community opportunities and resources.
• Collaborate with people with disabilities to overcome barriers and promote full inclusion.

 

Flexible online learning allows you to work through the curriculum at your own pace, on either a full-time or part-time basis. Please note that diploma requirements must be completed within five years of starting the program. Apply theory in a real-world setting with three field placements:

• Begin with 10 weeks in the second semester and increase to twelve weeks in both the third and fourth semester.
• Work on-the-job two to three days per week.
• Students have completed placements in residential programs such as Community Living and Pathways to Independence; public and private schools; adult education programs; and organizations in their home communities.