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 40 weeks, you'll gain comprehensive knowledge, computer skills, complete a clinical placement at an approved facility, and choose from customizable elective courses to tailor your training to become permanently employable in social service settings across Manitoba.

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—plus customize your learning path with electives in office skills, word processing, database management, or spreadsheets based on your career goals.

What You'll Learn

• CSW clinical knowledge - Psychology fundamentals, sociology and family life in Canada, introduction to mental health and addictions, life-span development, criminology and at-risk populations, case management, counselling techniques, ethics, and comprehensive understanding of government and social services systems
• Computer and business office skills - Introduction to keyboarding, keyboard skill building, Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (Windows, Word, Excel, Access, Outlook), business communication and report writing, thought patterns for a successful career, and strategies for success
• Customizable elective courses - Select from office skills, word processing, database management, and spreadsheets to enhance your competencies based on your career goals and employer requirements in Manitoba's social service sector
• Clinical placement and Manitoba locations - Hands-on placement experience at an approved CSW facility plus comprehensive job search and résumé writing, available at 4 Manitoba campus locations: Pine Falls, Steinbach, Winnipeg North, and Winnipeg South

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: $31,206 – $62,400 annually (Information from PayScale Canada)