Social Service Worker

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

About The Program

This one-year SSWA accelerated option allows you to build on your current credentials, upgrading your education or choosing a career specialization.

This program consists of a seven-week summer semester starting in early May, followed by a regular academic year starting the day after Labour Day and concluding in mid-April.

The SSWA program provides students with the professional knowledge and skills to support the needs of the community and our most vulnerable citizens. Practical interventions and strength-based approaches will equip you to promote equity and support populations experiencing trauma and challenging life events.

You will be encouraged to examine your belief systems and inherent biases in relation to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set out by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).  

The curriculum covers key areas such as mental health, crisis management, and examining privileges and biases that influence professional practice.

You will also learn about supportive counselling, community development, and relevant legislation. Learning methods include seminars, collaborative projects, guest lectures and experiential learning opportunities.

Please note that due to the nature of this program and profession, some course work and field placements are held in-person to adequately form interpersonal communication skills.

Graduates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible to pursue many different educational pathways including Seneca’s Honours Bachelor of Mental Health and Addiction (BMHA) program.

Our Career

When you graduate from this program, these are the types of career options you can explore:

• Agencies serving individuals, groups and communities experiencing challenging life events
• Shelters
• Schools
• Criminal justice system
• Mental health and substance misuse services
• Developmental services
• Food and income security programs
• Residential programs

Program Options

Social Service Worker Specialization Options

Seneca offers multiple Social Service Worker diploma program options, allowing students to graduate with a general or specialized focus.

Social Service Worker (SSW) – The generalized SSW option allows students to explore the breadth of social service work and apply for a variety of SSW jobs upon graduation.

Social Service Worker – Gerontology (SSWG) – The specialized SSWG option focuses on supporting older adults to maintain independence and a good quality of life.

Social Service Worker – Immigrants and Refugees (SSWI) – The specialized SSWI option focuses on supporting individuals and families who are new to Canada and/or undergoing the settlement process.

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated programs are also available for eligible students with prior education or experience. Review each program’s admission requirements for details.

Social Service Worker (Accelerated) (SSWA)

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

• Trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and strength-based supportive counselling
• Group facilitation (in-person and virtual)
• Advocacy to promote social justice, human dignity and equity
• Interpersonal communication and teamwork
• Ability to work with children, youth, individuals, families and older adults across the lifespan
• Intake and referrals, assessments, and case management
• Creating, implementing and evaluating community-based programs and projects
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and policies with ability to implement social change
• Community development, research and education

Work Experience

Apply skills and theoretical concepts learned within the classroom and build your network in one unpaid field placement over your second and third semesters. Completion of this placement will support your entry into the field of social service work.