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Gradates of the Developmental Services Worker program have the specialized knowledge, skills, competencies and attitudes to support the rights and empowerment of people with disabilities and their family. They demonstrate leadership in promoting social inclusion and helping people live their best lives. Graduates provide support and services to children, youth, and adults with various intellectual disabilities, such as autism, neurocognitive disorders, down syndrome, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, acquired brain injury, physical disabilities or learning disabilities.

These four semesters (two years) give students the knowledge and skills required for professionals who make a difference every day in the lives of children, youth and adults who have disabilities, and their support network, at home and in their communities. This includes specific skills to support people with disabilities in schools, recreation, mental health and addictions, the justice system, employment support and other places in our communities. Students also have the option to focus more on First nations, Inuit and Metis peoples through the Indigenous Perspectives Designation. Curriculum and field placements align with provincial and industry standards for the developmental services sector and is:

• Focused on person-centered, strength-based assessments and develop strategies for individuals, their families, and community inclusion.
• Grounded in professional competencies, ethics and values such as social justice, empowerment, dignity, self-worth, the importance of healthy human relationships, and integrity.
• Dynamic with hands-on and applied learning labs, simulation, and community-based projects.
• Connected to organizations that hire graduates with 685 hours in field placements beginning in semester 3
• Responsible through sustainability outcomes

Are you working in an organization that supports people with developmental disabilities and have related education (Personal Support Worker, Educational Support, Social Service Worker, etc.)? Contact us for more information about how your education and experience may reduce the time it takes to complete the Developmental Services Worker diploma. You can also use our “Fast Pass” to see if you qualify for course credits through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition.