Ontario College Diploma in Developmental Services Worker

The Developmental Service Worker program is a two-year Ontario college diploma for students interested in having a direct impact on the lives of people with developmental disabilities. You will become a highly skilled practitioner able to deliver person-directed support through courses that promote mental and physical health, develop interpersonal and interprofessional skills and foster independence and positive behaviour supports. New graduates are employed as direct supports professionals or educational assistants.If you believe that having a positive and direct impact on the lives of people with developmental disabilities is a career worth pursuing, then the Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program is designed for you.Students will become highly skilled and reflective practitioners while supporting people of all ages to live as independently as possible, while promoting inclusive communities. Your courses will be dynamic with a focus on mental and physical health, interpersonal skills, teaching and positive behaviour supports. You'll learn how to collaborate and build relationships with family members, and to work with the diverse network of professionals who support people with developmental disabilities. With nearly 700 hours of field experience with community agencies and school partners, you’ll gain the first-hand experience and confidence necessary for success as a developmental support worker. You'll also have the opportunity to transfer credits for further education at universities such as Ryerson, Windsor, Calgary and Western.

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or a mature applicant with the following course- Grade 12 English (C or U)Students who do not meet the admission requirements are recommended for academic upgrading. A conditional offer may be possible with proof of enrolment. Alternatively, applicants may choose to do the one-year Human Services Foundation preparatory program to meet all the admission requirements for this program.