COURSE CURRICULUM

The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program offers a comprehensive combination of theoretical instruction, hands-on laboratory simulation, and real-world clinical experience designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare and community care settings. In semester 1, students begin with Foundational Principles of PSW Practice, gaining insight into professional roles, responsibilities, and ethical considerations. Human Body Structure and Function provides a foundational understanding of anatomy, physiology, hygiene, nutrition, and infection control. Communication and Professionalism helps students build essential interpersonal and workplace communication skills. In End of Life Care, students explore palliative care principles, the impact of grief, and how to support clients and families during end-of-life experiences. PSW Supervised Lab and Theory 1 offers hands-on training in personal care, mobility, and safe practices. These skills are applied during PSW Clinical Practice 1, where students deliver supervised care in a healthcare setting. Semester 2 builds on this foundation with courses like Common Health Conditions and Mental Health Dementia Care, which focus on managing chronic illness and supporting individuals with cognitive and mental health challenges. Medication Enhancement introduces safe medication assistance practices within a PSW's scope. PSW Supervised Lab and Theory 2 teaches advanced care techniques such as wound care, vital signs, and postpartum care. PSW Clinical Practice 2 allows students to apply these advanced skills in real clinical environments. Finally, PSW Practice Consolidation provides an immersive placement experience where students perform the responsibilities of an entry-level PSW in both facility and community settings, working closely with healthcare teams and receiving guided feedback. This structured program ensures graduates are confident and capable of delivering compassionate, client-centered care to individuals across the lifespan.