Social Services Worker – Indigenous Specialization

Program highlights

• Learn interprofessional skills in social service work from an Anishnabek/Indigenous holistic perspective 
• Gain experience in the field with an extensive supervised field placement within a community organization 
• Be eligible to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers 
• Graduates will have an extended knowledge of Anishnabek/Indigenous history and cultural understanding to better support Indigenous clients and communities
• Be qualified as a registered social service worker in Ontario after graduation 
• Graduates will have the skills and knowledge to work effectively in all communities, with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations 
• Option to earn a second diploma in another community services program in just one year when you graduate   

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.

Additional costs for books and supplies at the course level can be found on individual course outlines.

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  

If you are a graduate of this program, you may continue your studies at a college or university, and you may receive credit(s) for your prior college education. 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!