COURSE CURRICULUM

The Human Service Work Diploma at Okanagan College is a two-year program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes necessary to support vulnerable and diverse populations. In the first year, Semester 1 provides foundational courses including Introduction to Psychology: Basic Processes, Professional Skills for Human Service Work, Introduction to Mental Health, Interpersonal Relationships, Families, and Introduction to Social Work Practice, along with a university-level English course, fostering critical thinking, communication, and relational skills. Semester 2 builds on these foundations with courses in Personal Functioning in Psychology, Augmentative Communication, Practicum Preparation I, Health Care Skills, Emotional Support, and Supporting Positive Change, emphasizing practical application and preparation for field experiences. During the intersession, students complete Practicum I, gaining hands-on experience in real-world human service environments. In the second year, Semester 3 includes Groups, Politics and Perspectives on Inclusion, and Lifespan Development, enhancing understanding of social dynamics, inclusion, and human development. Semester 4 further develops professional competencies through Introduction to Social Welfare in Canada, Practicum Preparation II, Introduction to Child and Youth Mental Health, and Principles of Human Service Work Practice. The intersession concludes with Practicum II, enabling students to integrate classroom learning with supervised fieldwork. Across the program, students cultivate professional behavior, self-reflection, teamwork, effective communication, and practical skills, preparing them to respond ethically and effectively to the complex needs of clients and communities.