| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-05-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Developmental Services Worker program is a two-year Ontario college diploma that prepares students to support individuals with developmental disabilities. The program includes nearly 700 hours of field experience and covers topics such as developmental disabilities, counseling, advocacy, health, and pharmacology. Graduates are in high demand and find employment within 6 months as direct support professionals, case managers/service coordinators, or educational assistants.
Program Outline
Outline:
Program Content:
The Developmental Services Worker program prepares students to support individuals with developmental disabilities by promoting life skills, education, employment, and leisure support. Graduates are also trained in counseling, advocacy, health, and pharmacology.
Program Structure:
The program is a two-year Ontario college diploma program. It includes nearly 700 hours of field experience with community agencies and school partners.
Individual Modules with Descriptions:
- Developmental Disabilities 1: Etiology and characteristics of developmental disabilities, service systems, and marginalization.
- Developmental Disabilities 2: Causes of common disabilities, prenatal assessment, and screening.
- Developmental Psychology: Physical, cognitive, language, social, and personality development throughout the lifespan.
- Reason & Writing 1 for Community Studies: Reading, writing, and reasoning principles, vocabulary, comprehension, grammar, and critical thinking.
- Philosophy of Support: Personal philosophy of support, values, advocacy, empowerment, stereotypes, diversity, inclusion, and boundaries.
- Health & Wellness 1: Health promotion, healthy body systems, and the role of DSWs in inter-professional health care teams.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Developmental Service Worker
- Service Navigator
Opportunities and Outcomes:
- Graduates are in high demand and find employment within 6 months as direct support professionals, case managers/service coordinators, or educational assistants.
- Graduates may transfer credits for further education at universities such as Ryerson, Windsor, Calgary, and Western.
Fanshawe College
Overview:
Fanshawe College is a publicly funded college located in London, Ontario, Canada. It offers a wide range of programs and services to students, including full-time and part-time studies, apprenticeships, and continuing education. Fanshawe College is known for its strong focus on applied learning and its commitment to providing students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Fanshawe College offers a variety of services to support students in their academic and personal endeavors. These include:
Academic Support:
Academic advisors, tutoring services, and learning resources.Career, Co-op & Employment:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and co-op opportunities.Health and Wellness:
Health services, counseling, and support for mental health and well-being.Accessibility Services:
Support for students with disabilities, including alternate formats and accommodations.Financial Aid & Awards:
Scholarships, bursaries, and student loans to help students finance their education.Student Life:
Housing options, student union, athletics, and campus services.International Student Support:
Services for international students, including visa assistance, orientation, and cultural programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Fanshawe College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Student clubs and organizations:
Opportunities to connect with other students and pursue shared interests.Athletics:
Competitive sports teams and recreational activities.Campus events:
Social gatherings, concerts, and cultural events.Housing options:
On-campus residence and off-campus housing listings.Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning:
Fanshawe College emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development.Industry Connections:
Strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations provide students with real-world experience.Career-Focused Programs:
Programs are designed to prepare students for specific careers and industries.Supportive Environment:
Dedicated faculty and staff provide guidance and support to students.Vibrant Campus Life:
A lively and engaging campus community with a wide range of activities and opportunities.Academic Programs:
Fanshawe College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Apprenticeships and Skilled Trades:
Programs in various trades, including carpentry, welding, and automotive technology.Diplomas & Advanced Diplomas:
Programs in a variety of fields, such as business, technology, healthcare, and hospitality.Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in areas like business administration, nursing, and social work.Continuing Education:
Part-time courses and programs for professional development and personal enrichment.Entry Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent,
- or a mature applicant with the following course
