Social Service Worker (SSW)

This diploma program provides students with the professional knowledge and skills to excel within the human services field. Practical interventions and strength-based approaches will equip you to promote equity and support populations experiencing trauma and challenging life events. You will be encouraged to examine your belief systems and inherent biases in relation to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set out by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).

The curriculum covers key areas such as mental health, crisis management, and examining privileges and biases that influence professional practice. You will also learn about supportive counselling, community development and relevant legislation. Learning methods include seminars, collaborative projects, guest lectures and experiential learning opportunities.

Please note that due to the nature of this program and profession, some course work and field placements are held in-person to adequately form interpersonal communication skills.

Graduates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible to pursue many different educational pathways including Seneca’s Honours Bachelor of Mental Health and Addiction (BMHA) program.

• Trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and strength-based supportive counselling
• Group facilitation (in-person and virtual)
• Advocacy to promote social justice, human dignity and equity
• Interpersonal communication and teamwork
• Ability to work with children, youth, individuals, families and older adults across the lifespan
• Intake and referrals, assessments, and case management
• Creating, implementing and evaluating community-based programs and projects
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and policies with ability to implement social change
• Community development, research and education

Study at your own pace: In this program you'll have the flexibility to choose how many courses you want to take each term. Students who study full-time can complete this program in as little as four semesters (two years). Duration will depend on the number of courses taken each term. See courses for more information.

Maximum completion time: In accordance with ministry requirements, all students must complete the program within four academic years of being admitted.

Apply skills and theoretical concepts learned within the classroom and build your network in two unpaid field placements. Your first field placement will be during your second semester, for 200 hours. You will then complete a 400-hour field placement within a different organization or program over your third and fourth semesters.