Social Service Worker Program at Confederation College

Program Intakes

0107 - Social Service Worker

Fall

2 years

Apply Now

Curriculum

Semester 1

CS 050 College Writing

In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.
SS 115 Interpersonal Effectiveness

In this course, students will examine the nature of interpersonal communication, how it is influenced by perception and how it gives rise to the creation of the self. It deals with the nature of emotions and how they are communicated. It looks at verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, communication climates, the nature of friendships, intimate relationships, and how to manage conflict in relationships.
SS 116 Social Welfare

In this course, students will examine historical development and current political and ideological influences on the social welfare system in Canada. This course also examines contemporary challenges being experienced by Canadians living within the social welfare system and role of the professions of Social Work and Social Service Work in assisting with addressing those challenges.
SS 117 Foundation of Social Service Work Practice

In this course, students will be introduced to the field of social service work practice through an exploration of the history, key concepts, and theoretical perspectives of the profession. This course also examines the regulatory body and the relationship between the values, the Code of Ethics, and the professional standards governing the profession. The importance of anti-oppressive practice in social service work is highlighted through an examination of social structures, forms of oppression and their impact on people`s ability to access resources.
SS 118 Intimate Personal Violence

In this course, students will examine structural violence, and its affects on individuals, families, groups and communities. Students will learn how to identify and respond to various types of violence using an anti oppressive lens. Students will apply a trauma-informed approach to the screening, assessing, reporting and intervention for both victims and offenders. Students will examine possible solutions and strategies to address violence.
SS 119 Family Dynamics

In this course students will examine the importance and the complexities associated with the concept of "family". Students will analyze the role family in society, the challenges families face and the implications for the profession of Social Service Work. Students will also gain the knowledge and skills necessary to assess and provide guidance to families in need of support from a strengths perspective.
SY 125 Introduction to Sociology

This course will introduce students to the field of Sociology. Students will develop a general understanding of sociological perspectives by focusing on the basic concepts of sociology. Topics examined include, culture, socialization, sexuality, inequality, crime, deviance, education, religion, gender, media, globalization and the environment. Furthermore, students will be able to use basic sociological terminology and apply the major sociological perspectives to current social systems in Canada.

Semester 2

CS 223 Communications for Community Services

In this course, students will enhance their communication skills as needed in the community services field. They will acquire the skills necessary to write memos, letters, email, informal reports and proposals and presentations that meet the professional standards in the community services field. Students will combine collaborative methods with advanced research, written and oral skills to produce and present an infographic.
PY 199 Introductory Psychology

This course introduces the student to the world of psychology by highlighting human behaviour and mental processes at the individual level. Students will learn why people do and think the way they do from a variety of perspectives and how psychological principles apply to everyday life situations. This introductory course provides a strong foundation for other courses in psychology.
SS 223 Addictions

In this course students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary for working with individuals, families and communities experiencing substance misuse and abuse. The primary focus of this course will be examining students own values and beliefs towards people who abuse substances. Students will learn how the complexities and myths of addictions effect societal perceptions, laws and legislation and resources offered for substance abuse.
SS 224 Community Practice

In this course, students will examine and integrate the roles, functions and skills employed in community practice to strengthen the well-being of community. This course will also explore the unique factors related to community practice in northern, rural and Indigenous communities.
SS 228 Counselling Skills

In this course, students will have the opportunity to develop the counselling skills needed in a professional 'helping' relationship. This course will provide students with an opportunity to apply the theoretical concepts and core skills needed to develop and maintain therapeutic relationships and guide clients through the change process.
SS 229 Case Management

In this course, students will examine the principles of case management in providing services and supports to individuals, families and communities. The roles, functions and skills employed by case managers throughout the planned change process will be explored. Unique practice techniques from an Indigenous perspective will also be examined.
SS 231 Mental Health

In this course, students will learn about the major mental illnesses occurring in children and adults. This course will introduce students to the personal and structural issues confronting people who have mental illnesses. Students will explore the historical, political and legal context of mental health practices in Canada. Students will also examine pharmacological and psychosocial interventions for individuals using a recovery based model.

Semester 3

SS 337 Group Process and Practice

In this course, students will deepen their understanding of social service work with groups. Social service workers are required to work with groups in almost all practice settings. Whether the "group" is a case conference, team meeting, research focus group, community meeting, or group therapy, social services workers are required to understand group dynamics and know how to facilitate group process. This course will provide an opportunity to learn and practice specific skills necessary to promote effective group functioning. It is designed to help students further develop skills and comfort in various group dynamics, group development, analysis, facilitation, and evaluation.
SS 338 SSW Theory and Methods I

In this course, students will gain an understanding of some of the major theories that underlie the practice of social service work. Students will examine the core beliefs and values that govern the ethical practice of generalist social service work. Students will have the opportunity to review relevant literature of interventions for clients to be used in multiple practice settings. Students will examine the concept of critical thinking, and how it applies to social service work practice.
SS 350 Field Placement I & Seminar

In this course, students will be able to observe and practice their knowledge and skills in a social service-related agency practice. Students will work under the supervision of a professional staff person, have the opportunity to observe social services procedures and practices, and take part in developing professional relationships with clients based on the profession's values and ethics. The student is guided and evaluated by an agency supervisor and a faculty supervisor; who work together to provide a constructive learning experience for the student. Students will also be expected to maintain a record of their placement activities through the submission of a learning plan, reflective journals and other documentation. Students will participate in a monthly seminar where they will discuss challenges and opportunities that arise in field practice, and integrate learning acquired from academic courses with practical experiences. The seminar component transitions the student to professional Social Service Worker and highlights what is required to be successful in the field.
Elective

Semester 4

SS 437 Diversity in SSW Practice

In this course, students will explore the challenges experienced by a range of diverse populations in Canada. Students will integrate the Generalist Perspective and Anti-Oppressive Practice in their role as Social Service Workers in assisting and supportive diverse populations including: children and youth in the child welfare system; women; persons living with disabilities; older persons; immigrants and refugees; and, sexual and gender diversity of persons.
SS 438 SSW Theory and Methods II

In this course, students will gain an understanding of some of the major theories that inform the practice of social service work. Students will have the opportunity to review relevant literature of interventions for clients to be used in multiple practice settings. Students will examine and critique each theory from an anti-oppressive lens.
SS 451 Field Placement and Seminar II

This course is the second field placement for the student, which gives further opportunity to integrate knowledge, values and skills in a practical social service-related environment. The student is assigned to work within an agency four days per week, for the semester. Relationships with clients and skill development will be more advanced and broader than the first placement. Student will demonstrate the ability to relate to a variety of clients and/or client groups. The student will demonstrate positive functioning as part of the social service team. Plans for future professional growth will be explored.

Fees

Cost Details for Year 1

Domestic Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $2,688.00
College Service Fee: $832.00
Health Fee: $280.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $4,068.00

Program Fees

Record Check, Seminars, Courses, First Aid, Medicals: $160.00
Books & Supplies: $1,400.00

Total Program Fees: $1,560.00

International Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $14,835.00
College Service Fee: $832.00
Health Fee: $681.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $16,616.00

Program Fees

Record Check, Seminars, Courses, First Aid, Medicals: $160.00
Books & Supplies: $1,400.00

Total Program Fees: $1,560.00

Ancillary Fees

Municipal Levy: $75.00
Student Fees: $300.00
Recovery Fee: $750.00

Total Ancillary Fees: $1,125.00

Cost Details for Year 2

Domestic Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $2,688.00
College Service Fee: $822.00
Health Fee: $280.00
Health Record Fee: $40.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $4,098.00

Program Fees

Record Check, Seminars, Courses, First Aid, Medicals: $160.00
Books & Supplies: $200.00

Total Program Fees: $360.00

International Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $14,835.00
College Service Fee: $822.00
Health Fee: $681.00
Health Record Fee: $40.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $16,646.00

Program Fees

Record Check, Seminars, Courses, First Aid, Medicals: $160.00
Books & Supplies: $200.00

Total Program Fees: $360.00

Ancillary Fees

Municipal Levy: $75.00
Student Fees: $300.00
Recovery Fee: $750.00

Total Ancillary Fees: $1,125.00

0154 - Social Service Worker - Accelerated

Fall

1 year

Apply Now

Curriculum

Semester 1

SS 115 Interpersonal Effectiveness

In this course, students will examine the nature of interpersonal communication, how it is influenced by perception and how it gives rise to the creation of the self. It deals with the nature of emotions and how they are communicated. It looks at verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, communication climates, the nature of friendships, intimate relationships, and how to manage conflict in relationships.
SS 117 Foundation of Social Service Work Practice

In this course, students will be introduced to the field of social service work practice through an exploration of the history, key concepts, and theoretical perspectives of the profession. This course also examines the regulatory body and the relationship between the values, the Code of Ethics, and the professional standards governing the profession. The importance of anti-oppressive practice in social service work is highlighted through an examination of social structures, forms of oppression and their impact on people`s ability to access resources.
SS 118 Intimate Personal Violence

In this course, students will examine structural violence, and its affects on individuals, families, groups and communities. Students will learn how to identify and respond to various types of violence using an anti oppressive lens. Students will apply a trauma-informed approach to the screening, assessing, reporting and intervention for both victims and offenders. Students will examine possible solutions and strategies to address violence.
SS 338 SSW Theory and Methods I

In this course, students will gain an understanding of some of the major theories that underlie the practice of social service work. Students will examine the core beliefs and values that govern the ethical practice of generalist social service work. Students will have the opportunity to review relevant literature of interventions for clients to be used in multiple practice settings. Students will examine the concept of critical thinking, and how it applies to social service work practice.
SS 350 Field Placement I & Seminar

In this course, students will be able to observe and practice their knowledge and skills in a social service-related agency practice. Students will work under the supervision of a professional staff person, have the opportunity to observe social services procedures and practices, and take part in developing professional relationships with clients based on the profession's values and ethics. The student is guided and evaluated by an agency supervisor and a faculty supervisor; who work together to provide a constructive learning experience for the student. Students will also be expected to maintain a record of their placement activities through the submission of a learning plan, reflective journals and other documentation. Students will participate in a monthly seminar where they will discuss challenges and opportunities that arise in field practice, and integrate learning acquired from academic courses with practical experiences. The seminar component transitions the student to professional Social Service Worker and highlights what is required to be successful in the field.

Semester 2

SS 223 Addictions

In this course students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary for working with individuals, families and communities experiencing substance misuse and abuse. The primary focus of this course will be examining students own values and beliefs towards people who abuse substances. Students will learn how the complexities and myths of addictions effect societal perceptions, laws and legislation and resources offered for substance abuse.
SS 228 Counselling Skills

In this course, students will have the opportunity to develop the counselling skills needed in a professional 'helping' relationship. This course will provide students with an opportunity to apply the theoretical concepts and core skills needed to develop and maintain therapeutic relationships and guide clients through the change process.
SS 438 SSW Theory and Methods II

In this course, students will gain an understanding of some of the major theories that inform the practice of social service work. Students will have the opportunity to review relevant literature of interventions for clients to be used in multiple practice settings. Students will examine and critique each theory from an anti-oppressive lens.
SS 451 Field Placement and Seminar II

This course is the second field placement for the student, which gives further opportunity to integrate knowledge, values and skills in a practical social service-related environment. The student is assigned to work within an agency four days per week, for the semester. Relationships with clients and skill development will be more advanced and broader than the first placement. Student will demonstrate the ability to relate to a variety of clients and/or client groups. The student will demonstrate positive functioning as part of the social service team. Plans for future professional growth will be explored.

Fees

Cost Details for Year 1

Domestic Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $2,688.00
College Service Fee: $832.00
Health Fee: $280.00
Health Record Fee: $40.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $4,108.00

International Students

Academic Fees

Total Tuition Fees: $14,835.00
College Service Fee: $832.00
Health Fee: $681.00
Health Record Fee: $40.00
Bus Fee: $268.00

Total Academic Fees: $16,656.00

Ancillary Fees

Municipal Levy: $75.00
Student Fees: $300.00
Recovery Fee: $750.00

Total Ancillary Fees: $1,125.00

Program Overview

Your First Step to a Social Service Work Career

Social service work is an extremely broad field. But at its heart, social service work is all about one thing: helping people. Are you a people-oriented individual, excited to make a difference in the community?

Confederation College's Social Service Worker program can give you the tools and knowledge you need to get your start in social service work. You’ll get a solid background with courses in social welfare, mental health, interpersonal effectiveness, communications, addictions, and applied professional practice. Work placements will reinforce your in-class learning, providing you with on-the-job experience that will help you start building a résumé before you graduate. You’ll learn how to use available community resources as well as your own skills to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Top Highlights

Upon successful completion of this program you will be able to apply to become a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
Gain valuable experience working with all population groups from young children to senior citizens
Gain broad experience in many different areas of social service work
Available as an accelerated program for those with a college diploma or university degree in certain related fields

Learning Outcomes

Develop respectful and collaborative professional and interpersonal relationships that adhere to professional, legal, and ethical standards aligned to social service work.
Record information accurately and communicate effectively in written, digital, verbal and nonverbal ways, in adherence to privacy and freedom of information legislation, in accordance with professional and workplace standards.
Integrate a practice framework within a service delivery continuum, addressing the needs of individuals, families and communities at micro, mezzo, macro and global levels, and work with them in achieving their goals.
Plan and implement accessible and responsive programs and services, recognizing the diverse needs and experiences of individuals, groups, families and communities, and meeting these needs.
Examine current social policy, relevant legislation, and political, social, historical, and/or economic systems and their impacts for individuals and communities when delivering services to the user/client.
Develop strategies and approaches that support individual clients, groups, families and communities in building the capacity for self-advocacy, while affirming their dignity and self-worth.
Work from an anti-oppressive, strengths-based practice, recognizing the capacity for resilience and growth of individuals and communities when responding to the diverse needs of marginalized or vulnerable populations to act as allies and advocates.
Develop strategies and approaches to implement and maintain holistic self-care as a member of a human service profession.
Work with individuals, groups, families and their communities to ensure that service provider strategies promote social and economic justice, and challenge patterns of oppression, discrimination and harassment, and sexual violence with clients, coworkers and communities.
Develop the capacity to work with the Indigenous individual, families, groups and communities while respecting their inherent rights to self-determine, and to identify and address systemic barriers that produce ill-effects, developing appropriate responses using approaches such as trauma informed care practice.

Employment Opportunity

Graduates of the Social Service Worker program go on to positions including Social Service Worker (only members of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers may use this title), Outreach Worker, Case Manager, Intake Worker, Support Worker, Facilitator, Family Worker, and Program Coordinator. You’ll have opportunities in a variety of settings including public welfare agencies at various levels of government, as well as with private agencies in the fields of child and family services, addictions, mental health, community development, domestic violence, and others.

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Admission Requirements

Program Requirements (for Domestic Students)

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (U/C), or Open (O) preparation levels with Grade 12 English (C/U) Level. OR
Successful completion of the Mature Student Assessment. OR
Successful completion of the General Education Development Test (GED). OR
Appropriate credits from the Academic and Career Entrance program (ACE).

Program Requirements (for International Students)

This program is not currently available for international students.

Alternative Pathways:

If you do not meet these admission requirements, we encourage you to consider our College Access or General Arts and Science Certificate or General Arts and Science Diploma programs, or the Academic and Career Entrance program (ACE); if you successfully complete one of these programs, you will be eligible to apply to programs in the Community Services area.