Social Service Worker

9-Month Certificate at Castlegar

Delivered with the following methods: On Campus

Program Calendar

2012

• January 3 - Winter semester instruction begins
• February 13 - 17 - Reading break
• April 5 - Winter semester instruction ends
• September 4 – Get Connected student orientation
• September 5 – Fall semester instruction begins
• December 7 – Fall semester instruction ends
• December 10 – 21 – Fall semester examinations

 2013

• January 2 – Winter semester instruction begins
• February 11-15 – Reading Break
• April 5 – Winter semester instruction ends
• April 8-16 – Winter semester examinations

Program Objectives

The Social Service Worker program at Selkirk College is a challenging, exciting program that introduces students to the helping professions. Social Work values form the foundation of this beneficial and rewarding program. Graduates of the Social Service Worker program are prepared to practice in a number of Community Service agencies, institutions and schools. Students gain a firm and appropriate base for continuing their professional education in either Child and Youth Care or Social Work.

Students are introduced to the profession of social work, to social justice, and the theoretical underpinnings of human service practice. The program teaches practical interviewing, communication and support skills that include individual, group and family strategies. There is an emphasis on both written and oral communication as well as on the promotion of self awareness, personal growth and readiness for practice. Critical thinking, team building and problem solving skills are integral parts of the training. An appreciation for diversity of people and practices is modelled and anti-oppressive perspectives are promoted.

Practicum provides an opportunity to explore a variety of services and programs serving a wide range of populations that includes people who are poor, are young, are aging, have mental health problems, have behavioral problems, or other issues that interfere with their ability to cope successfully in a demanding society. The program prepares students to work as entry level practitioners in the Human Services field. A commitment to life-long learning is emphasized and modeled in the Social Service Worker program.

Degree and Diploma Options

This certificate serves as a prerequisite for entry into the Human Services Diploma. Completion of the Human Services Diploma provides students with sufficient credit to enter third year of a Child and Youth Care, Bachelor of Social Work Degree, or a Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation, depending on the selection of elective courses.

Please see diagram:Human Services Programs Chart