Developmental Services Worker
| Study location | Canada, Ontario, Orillia |
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| Type | Diploma, College |
| Nominal duration | 2 years, includes 2 field placements |
| Study language | English |
| Course code | DSWR |
| Tuition fee | CA$17,503 per year The fee is for the 2025–2026 academic year and includes tuition (CA$14,794), health insurance and ancillary charges. The fees displayed are estimates for two semesters and are subject to change. |
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| Registration fee | CA$400 one-time The registration fee includes the non-refundable application fee (CA$100) and the refundable deposit fee (CA$300). Please REVIEW the EdviseCanada`s fee policy. |
| Entry qualification | High School / Secondary Education (or higher) To be eligible for admission, you must possess a high school diploma including these required courses (or equivalents):
The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English. |
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| Language requirements | English If English is not your first language and/or you are not coming from an English-speaking country, you must provide proof of your English language proficiency by submitting one of the following tests:
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| Other requirements | Criminal Reference/Vulnerable Sector Check Placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to going out on placement. Students should obtain their criminal reference three months prior to placement; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. As some jurisdictions require longer lead-time for processing, please check with the program coordinator to ensure you allow for sufficient turn-around time. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the completed document prior to placement start. NOTE: A record of criminal offences, for which a pardon has not been granted, may prevent students from completing their placements, thereby affecting their ability to graduate. Admission details Applicants must have an up-to-date immunization record, Standard First Aid and CPR level C or HCP certification before proceeding on field placement. It is recommended that First Aid training is completed prior to program entry. |
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Overview
100% graduate satisfaction. Small class sizes. Caring, knowledgeable faculty. Lots of hands-on learning. Active community partners/employers.
Students develop the knowledge and skills required to support people with developmental disabilities across the lifespan. Utilizing person-directed planning, students advocate for self-determination in individuals with developmental disabilities and facilitate the development of natural supports and opportunities for full community participation.
Areas of study includes intellectual, physical and mental disabilities, spectrum disorders, support options, health and well-being, social relationships, active lifestyles, community building, stages of human development, augmentative communication, pharmacology and medication administration, teaching and intervention strategies, support planning for individuals and their family, counselling, and professional development. Students consolidate this learning in fourteen weeks of supervised field placements.
Career opportunities
Diverse opportunities within the field of developmental services are available in educational, community living, and day services organizations. Job titles include community support worker, educational assistant, community living counsellor, vocational coach, senior’s program counsellor, developmental services advocate, supported independent living counsellor, home care provider, life skills instructor, specialized care provider, employment instructor, family support worker, recreation inclusion counsellor and developmental support professional.