Program Overview

Social Service Worker (Accelerated) (SSWA)

Overview

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.

Program Details

• Campus: King
• Delivery: Hybrid
• Duration: 3 Semesters (12 Months)
• Credential: Ontario College Diploma
• School: School of Community Services

About the Program

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.

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)
  • Social Service Worker – Immigrants and Refugees (Accelerated) (SSIA)

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 the 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.

Program Availability

• Canadian Applicants
• International Applicants

Availability is subject to change, and a seat is not guaranteed.

Professional Accreditation

Graduates of the SSWA diploma are eligible for registration with the Ontario College of Social Work and Social Services Work (OCSWSSW).

Career Options

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

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career-ready and world-ready. This program has a field placement to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking, and more.

The Service Hub

The Service Hub is your one-stop source of information about everything from registering and paying fees to student services and life on campus.