About the Program

The Community Service Worker diploma program prepares you to administer social assistance programs and community services while helping clients address personal and social problems. In 32 weeks, you'll gain comprehensive knowledge, computer skills, and complete a 75-hour clinical placement at an approved facility to become permanently employable in social service settings across British Columbia.

This program addresses the growing workforce shortage in social services by providing comprehensive training in psychology, sociology, mental health, addictions, criminology, and case management. Academy of Learning provides financial aid guidance for qualified students and job placement assistance to help you succeed from enrollment through employment. You'll develop the skills to work with at-risk populations, provide counselling and ethical support, and navigate government and social services systems while gaining Standard First Aid and CPR Level C certification essential for community service roles in BC.

What You'll Learn

• CSW clinical knowledge - Psychology fundamentals, sociology, mental health and addictions, life-span development, criminology, at-risk populations, case management, counselling techniques, ethics, and comprehensive understanding of government and social services systems
• Business communication skills - Business communication and report writing, Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook), keyboarding skills, professional development strategies, and comprehensive job search techniques
• Healthcare certifications - Standard First Aid and Basic Rescuer (Level C) CPR certification included in program, preparing you for emergency situations in community service settings across British Columbia
• 75-hour clinical placement - Hands-on preceptorship at an approved CSW facility providing real-world experience, available at 7 BC campus locations: Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, North Vancouver, Surrey, Vancouver Broadway Station, and Victoria Westshore

Career Opportunities

Community Service Workers are integral parts of social service organizations, providing essential support to individuals, families, and communities facing various challenges.

Career paths include:

• Community Service Worker - Provide direct support in youth centres, individual and family services, and civic organizations
• Support Specialist - Work in out-patient care centres, vocational rehabilitation services, and educational services supporting client needs
• Program Coordinator - Manage community food and housing programs, emergency relief services, and social assistance initiatives

Salary Range: $28,502 – $48,307 annually (Information from PayScale Canada)