COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Service Worker (SSW) program spans four semesters and combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience to prepare students for a career in human services. In the first semester, students build foundational skills through courses such as Communicating Across Contexts, Sociology: A Practical Approach, Interpersonal Communications, Anti-Oppressive Practice, Social Justice Approaches to Social Problems, and Preparation for Social Service Work Practice, emphasizing ethical, inclusive, and client-centered approaches. Semester two deepens this foundation with courses on Group Dynamics, Resiliency through the Life Span, Interviewing Skills and Principles, Families in Change, Field Seminar I, and Field Practicum I, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in supervised field placements and develop hands-on skills in real-world social service settings. Semester three focuses on advanced practice with Service Coordination and Advocacy, Supportive Counselling, Field Seminar II, and Field Practicum II, complemented by general education and professional options such as courses on Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Human Sexuality, Social Networking, Aging, Volunteer Program Management, Intimate Partner Abuse, Addictions, Mental Health, Child Welfare, and Homelessness in Canada, providing specialized knowledge relevant to diverse populations. In the fourth semester, students complete Social Welfare and Policy, Community Practice, Field Seminar III, and Field Practicum III, consolidating their skills and preparing them for employment in social service agencies, community programs, and human services roles while fostering professional judgment, advocacy, and client-centered practice.