Program Requirements

Students are required to fulfill all obligations of the Program as specified in the Program Model Route, prior to graduation.

The minimum passing grade in all courses in the SSW program is “C” or 60%

• The minimum passing grade for COMM and GNED courses is also a C or 60%.
• Students must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5.
• Students must ensure that all pre-requisite and co-requisite courses are met.
• Please refer to the Program Model Route for these courses.

Time Limit on Credits and Graduation

You are usually expected to complete your program within the following time limits, based on your original date of registration, you may have to four years. (Although the Program itself is a two year program). If you do not complete the  program within the four year time limit, you may need to retake courses (initially already taken) depending on how much time has passed between the last time you were in the program and your new start time. Industry standards and information is constantly changing and we want to ensure that our students are up to date.

SSW Course Descriptions

The Social Service Worker is a face to face program where students are required to be in-person a physical classroom. The Social Service Worker Program is not an online program. However, there are some courses that are delivered as hybrid courses and some as fully online courses. 

A Hybrid Learning course is a course where face-to-face teaching time is reduced, but not eliminated, to allow students more time for online study. This model comes in a number of formats, however the online component is typically 50-80% of the total course delivery. In this case, a hybrid learning course may have components delivered via traditional face-to-face; however, over 50% of the course delivery should be online.

A Fully Online Learning course is a form of distance learning delivered to individuals with access to the Internet, either at home, work or through an access centre. Although courses may have a set start date and set due dates for assignments, students can otherwise access and participate in courses at times and places of their own choosing. The online component is typically over 80% of the total delivery. For example, a fully online course may include occasional face-to-face meetings, a proctored exam, etc. with the remainder of the content delivered online.

The following core courses are included in the Social Service Worker Diploma program:

Semester 1 Courses

SSWR101 Power, Privilege and Oppression

The purpose of this course is to understand social inequality in Canada and how it relates to social service work. We will examine class, gender, race/ethnicity, social, political, and economic factors that are evident in the interplay among power, privilege, and oppression. Students will understand why certain groups are more likely to be poor and become service users, the social construction of inequality, the role of social institutions, and the role of the media in the construction and preservation of social inequality. This course will help students integrate the principles of critical reflective perspective through an anti-oppressive practice approach to social service work.

SSWR102 Relational and Reflective Skills for Social Service Workers

This course begins the process of examining how and why we communicate the way that we do. Students are presented with opportunities for self-reflection, self-analysis and self-assessment that are grounded in theoretical concepts so that they may better understand themselves and others. Ultimately, the purpose of this self-reflection and self-analysis is a strengthened positive, respectful and anti-oppressive communication response/style within (themselves) and others. Since communication is the foundation of social service work practice it is important for students to understand the roots of how and why they communicate; deconstruct and build healthier, more mindful communication patterns. This course will also allow students to examine and demonstrate practice in preliminary interviewing skills. Overall, the course focuses on students being able to better understand the communication pattern responses of others and themselves.

SSWR103 Introduction to Social Service Work Practice

This course introduces students to social service work practice through an examination of the history, ideological foundations, and theoretical approaches of the profession of social service work. Students examine the relevant code of ethics and principles and standards that govern practitioners and an overview of the multi-faceted roles in which social service workers become involved. This course also examines the Canadian social structures and how various roots and systems of oppression, marginalization, and exclusion influence the lives of people in Canadian society, and why a commitment to social justice and anti-oppressive practice are essential to social change. Students are encouraged to reflect upon and critically analyze personal values and viewpoints with those of the social service work profession to bring context to the use of self within the professional role.

SSWR104 Fundamentals for Success as a Social Service Worker

This course prepares students for academic and professional success as a Social Service Worker. Students will explore resources available through the college as well as in the professional field to support their success.  This course will also teach research and digital literacy skills to enhance professional development within the Social Service Worker field.  Students will also gain knowledge of the policies, procedures and practices of the Social Service Worker field and develop the professional competencies required for Field Placement and to work as a Social Service Worker.

COMM 160/161 College Communications  

This course introduces the standards of college-level English. It enables the student to develop skills in academic writing, reading, sentence variety, and grammar. These language skills contribute to success in college programs and professional life.

GNED Elective General Education Class

SSW students may choose from a list of elective general education classes offered to enrich and diversify their learning experiences. The world is vast and there are many types of knowledge.

Semester 2 Courses

SSWR201 Social Issues and Political Process

Prerequisite: SSWR101

In this course, students will be introduced to the Canadian government approaches to social policy. The readings will provide a historical examination of policy development that focuses on the political processes, social, and economic forces that contribute to the development and implementation of public policies and social programs in response to social issues. Students will be able to identify which level of government is responsible for programs and services and will examine social issues from a structural analysis framework to distinguish between personal troubles and public issues.

SSWR203 Power & Social Movements

Prerequisite: SSWR103

 This course will introduce students to the role that civil resistance and social movements play in social and political change. More specifically the course will examine a range of social movement case studies from across the globe to answer the questions: How do social movements emerge? Who participates in social movements? How are they organized? What are the goals and tactics used in social movements? What are the measures of success and why do social movements decline? This course will also prepare students to create a social movement or campaign strategy which utilizes tactics based on nonviolent principles.

SSWR204  Preparation for Practice

Prerequisite: SSWR102; SSWR104

The purpose of this course is to identify and build essential competencies as students prepare for social service work practice. The course is a hybrid course and therefore will be a combination of online and in class delivery. The student’s will focus on professional and personal values, ethics and professional standards that guide and impact social service work practice. Different theoretical perspectives that inform social service work will also be examined. The course will also emphasize introductory engagement skills required in the social service worker/client relationship. Throughout the course, case studies will be utilized to provide students with the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge. The course will also introduce students to Interprofessional Education (IPE) through collaborative learning opportunities.

SSWR205 Indigenous Approaches to Social Service Work

Prerequisite: SSWR101; SSWR 102

This course prepares and builds on the students capacity to develop an Indigenous approach to practicing social service work to First Nations, Metis and Inuit (FNMI) communities living on Turtle Island. We will examine Indigenous Worldview Perspectives, Indigenous/FNMI communities and spirituality, and the impacts of colonization and social policy on Indigenous/FNMI populations. Students will develop a historical understanding of the relationship between western social work and Indigenous communities, as well as develop a critical analysis of western social work practices. Through exploring Indigenous knowledges and Indigenous social work practices, students will demonstrate practical skills, including a trauma informed approach and self-reflective practices when working with Indigenous/FNMI individuals, families, groups and communities while giving autonomy to their inherent rights to self-determine. This course is taught within an Indigenous Worldview perspective, meaning, students should be prepared for physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual circular learning and readiness to share thoughts and experiences are welcomed and encouraged but not forced. It is the understanding that we are all learners in this way and we honour the space we learn and grow in together. Academically and central to this course is an examination of Indigenous/FNMI experiences to colonialism, oppression and the struggle to self-determine helping to inform best social service work practices for today.

GNED 500 Global Citizenship

Global citizenship provides students with an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to live and work in a world that is globally interconnected. Students will examine and critically analyze social problems, gain an understanding of identity and values, develop an awareness of media conglomeration, power and control, and investigate issues of equality and equity using different perspectives to develop a plan for social action that will bring about positive change. This course allows students to develop a sound understanding of what it means to be a global citizen, both personally and professionally, and the ways in which they can make a contribution to an equitable society and world.

COMM 170/171 College Communications 2

Prerequisite: COMM160/161

This course focuses on the refinement of reading and writing skills and emphasizes clear, correct writing based on the process of composing, revising, and editing. It will include a review of sentence structure, grammar, diction, and punctuation. All essays written in the course will analyze assigned readings. The student will recognize and use a variety of structural and stylistic techniques, analyze audience, purpose, and tone, and develop critical reading and thinking skills.

Semester 3 Courses

 SSWR301 Social Policy and Legislation

Prerequisite: SSWR 201

Students will learn how social policies and legislation inform social service work in the areas of legal accountability, standards of practice, civil and legal responsibility, and as the primary response by governments to social problems. Through the application of information and technical literacy, learners will critically examine social policies and relevant legislation that affect the delivery of social services and programs that relate specifically to client populations, and the government responses to populations at risk and its impact on social justice.

SSWR302 Community Development

Prerequisite: SSWR203

This course will provide you with the basic principles, theoretical frameworks, and processes of community development. You will learn on various community issues and programs at local, national and international levels, and the role of Social Service Workers (SSW) in community development. This course will introduce you to Indigenous and social justice values and principles for developing vibrant communities. Furthermore, you will learn how to organize communities, conduct community needs assessments, and develop community capacity in social issue analysis, planning, social entrepreneurship and advocacy. This course also focuses on peer-to-peer collaboration, and you will work in groups to create community development programs and grant proposals that aim to empower marginalized communities, address poverty and community needs.

SSWR303 Essential Skills and Practice

Prerequisite: SSWR204

 This course builds on the practice skills and theoretical knowledge learned in SSWR204, Preparation for Practice. Through in-class delivery, students will further examine theories and skills that inform social work practice in a variety of settings. Students will deepen their knowledge of assessment and related skills. Students will also critically reflect on the concept of self-care and its importance as a tool of critical self-reflection and healing. Students will also be exposed to current social issues and practice perspectives that inform practice in the field of Social Service Work and reflect on these issues for current and future practice.

SSWR304 Field Placement 1

Prerequisites: All Semester 1 and All Semester 2 SSWR Courses; COMM170/171

Corequisite: SSWR 303

Field Placement is an essential part of social service work education. Students will have the opportunity to apply theory to practice within a social service work setting. As a “professional in training”, students will be gaining experience in contributing to the goals and activities of the agency by observing professionals in action, as well as learning about their clients, programs, policies and expectations. The course will focus on facilitating students’ development of the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that are necessary to enter the field as a social service work practitioner.

ENGL206 Report Presentation

Prerequisite: COMM170/171

This course helps students develop and improve upon a set of closely related communication skills needed for the community services workplace. It focuses on correct, concise, clear, coherent, complete, courteous and cogent expression, with an emphasis on practicing writing memos, letters, and reports and on developing speaking skills. Students learn not only to become more critical consumers of research results but also to generate knowledge and stimulate social action through their own research.

Semester 4 Courses

 SSWR401 Field Seminar

Prerequisites: SSWR 303; SSWR 304

Corequisite: SSWR 402

 Field Seminar is a capstone course that integrates theory and practice by connecting students’ field placement experience with theoretical and experiential learning, and by exposing students to relevant social and practice issues. Students reflect and analyze their own field placement experiences. Additionally, they will reflect on other vulnerable and marginalized individuals and communities from an anti-oppressive, strength-based practice, recognizing the capacity for resilience and growth. Students are given an opportunity to demonstrate this by a comprehensive presentation related to their own Field Placement. The course aims to provide students with a reflective and supportive environment where they can engage in meaningful dialogue to demonstrate their familiarity with Social Service Work themes as they relate to their field placement setting. The course also focuses on helping students develop communication skills that adhere to professional standards by giving students an opportunity to practice their interviewing, networking and presentation skills. Students will also focus on creating a professional plan that demonstrates their learning as it pertains to the Program Learning Outcomes in the Social Service Worker Program.

SSWR402 Field Placement 2

Prerequisites: SSWR 303; SSWR 304

This course builds on the experience gained in SSWR304 – Field Placement 1. Moving from 2 days per week in Semester 3, to 4 days per week in the final semester (Semester 4), students will demonstrate their advanced competency to practice as a Social Service Worker upon graduation. Students are provided an opportunity to take more of a leadership role in the agency, including more direct client contact (individual and/or group). Students are expected to engage as professionals in training, meeting more advanced practice goals and participating in the activities of the agency with staff and clients.

Field Placement

Students are required to complete Field Placement 1 (SSWR304) in semester 3 and Field Placement 2 (SSWR402) in semester 4.

Field Placement provides students with the opportunity to apply and practice the knowledge, skills and values they have learned in their courses of study. The aim is for students to gain a mastery of knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for effective entry to practice and to qualify for entry into the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Upon successful completion of the requirements of the SSW program, graduates will be qualified to apply for graduation and for membership to the OCSWSSW (www.ocswssw.org).

In Semester 1, students will receive detailed information and guidance about the field placement selection process in their SSWR104 Fundamentals for Success as a Social Service Worker course. Students must complete the necessary online applications and forms for the field placement selection process. Please note that Field Placement matching is determined by the Field Placement Coordinator: while student preferences regarding Field Placement are taken into careful consideration, it is not possible to guarantee students’ preferred placements. Furthermore, note that the decision to accept a student at a Field Placement Agency is determined by the agency, based on a rigorous interview process. 

IMPORTANT:

Students who do not meet the minimum standard of acceptable and appropriate behavior, and/or have breached our Student Code of Conduct and/or the Disruptive Student Behavior policy may be considered ineligible for Field Placement.  

It is the student’s responsibility to understand the processes related to Field Placement and to be aware of all deadlines and requirements. Students are expected to read and comply with all correspondence from the Field Placement Coordinator distributed in class or through email

The Field Placement Coordinator requires a minimum of 4 months before the start of the Field Placement course to initiate the placement matching and interview selection process.

 This advance time is critical, and students are responsible for:

(a) Completing and submitting all of the Field Placement-related applications, forms, and documentation (including a professional resume).

(b) Preparing for and attending the Field Placement interview (including researching the agency online and preparing a tailored resume specific to the Field Placement Agency).

(c) Submitting the Field Placement Contract to the Field Placement Coordinator.

These steps are essential in order to confirm a Field Placement space. Please note that students who are off the SSW Model Route (e.g. students who have failed or dropped a course) must initiate contact with the Field Placement Coordinator at least four months before the official start date of the Field Placement course.

Students must complete the application for the Police Vulnerable Sector Check (required for Field Placement). Please note that Field Placement agencies may decline to interview or accept students with prior criminal convictions. If this is a concern, please speak to the Field Placement Coordinator as soon as possible to assist in planning and securing an appropriate Field Placement.

Note that ALL SSW students must apply for a criminal background check.  

Please take special note of the following:

• Students must pass the prerequisite courses in order to be eligible to enter Field Placement.
• Students must be in Good or Conditional Academic Standing in order to be eligible for Field Placement.
• Students must be successful in the agency interview process to be accepted into Field

Placement.

 See the Experiential Learning Requirements section for information on work terms, field placements, clinical placements, or other required experiential learning components.

Course Requirements – Course Outlines

Course outlines specify relevant course learning outcomes to be achieved and assessments that measure achievement of that learning. Course outlines also offer a general description of the course, its content, requirements, and required learning resources (e.g., textbooks, equipment/materials). Course outlines also offer a general description of the course, its content, requirements, and learning resources. Course outlines clearly communicate expectations to learners concerning requirements for admission to the course (e.g.., pre- and co-requisites), successful completion of the course, and other course-specific policies and procedures. Ensure you review the course outlines for each of your courses to be aware of requirements and expectations.