Social Service Worker

Program highlights

• Professional program recognized by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) 
• Small, in-person classes with a focus on skill development, real-world experience, and personal growth 
• Customized part-time program completion options are available 
• Opportunity to take classes alongside the Social Service Worker – Indigenous Specialization program 
• Fast-track or reduced course load options for those with prior academic or related professional experience 
• 760 total placement hours – one of the highest number of hours across Ontario colleges – with two full-time immersive field experiences in different community-based organizations 
• Opportunity to become trained in Applied Suicide Intervention Training (ASIST)

Admission requirements

For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS): Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or mature student status, including:

• Any grade 12 English (C) or (U)

International students English language requirements: IELTS: 6.5 (no band under 6.0); TOEFL: 570 (paper-based test), 84 (internet-based test); PTE (Pearson): 61; Duolingo: 120+

See English Language Requirements

After graduating from the Social Services Worker Program, using the title Social Service Worker or Registered Social Service Worker requires registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers (OCSWSSW). This registration requires following a code of ethics and standards of practice, an annual registration fee, strong English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 7.0), and additional criteria. See the “Criteria for Registration” from the OCSWSS.

Please see our fees page for the breakdown of tuition and mandatory ancillary fees by program and semester for both domestic and international students.

Books and supplies may be required at the course level over and above what is estimated above. Please consult your professor/instructor and course outlines for further information.

Cambrian programs blend academic learning, hands-on training, and community involvement opportunities to help you achieve your ultimate goal – your dream career. You’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios within and outside of the classroom through work-integrated learning. Whether it be a capstone project, co-op, practicum, preceptorship component, or placement, you’ll benefit from a practical, job-related experience before you graduate.

Specific program pathways

College or university degree opportunities  

There are many opportunities for graduates of the Social Services Worker Program at Cambrian to continue their education, including

• post-graduate certification in Mental Health and Addiction or Community and Health Services Navigation at Cambrian
• fast track into a Developmental Services Worker, Child and Youth Care, or Community and Justice Services Diploma at Cambrian
• fast track into the Honours Bachelor Applied Psychology at Cambrian
• pathway into a Social Work or other related degree. Refer to Cambrian’s college and university agreement details for further information. 

Success in this program requires that you come equipped with some program-specific technology requirements.

Cambrian College has implemented a BYOD principle to both enrich the student learning experience in and out of the classroom and to ensure flexibility!