A variety of learning experiences

Social Service Worker – Human Services Diploma

Program Details

Length: 1 year after successful completion of the first-year program

Total Credits: 39

Intake Terms: Fall

Campus: Castlegar

Student Loans: This program is eligible for student loans

Credential Received

Diploma in Human Services with a concentration in Social Service Worker

Overview

Program Summary

These programs provide the second year of training in a specific human services field and prepare students for work in a variety of multidisciplinary settings.

  • Social Service Worker

Practicum experience in community agencies develops your working knowledge of partnerships, hands-on training in the dynamics of interpersonal relationships and employment opportunities within your client group.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate professionalism in practice consistent with the code of ethics and standards of practice of their respective disciplines
  2. Use effective interpersonal skills, including active listening, collaboration, self-awareness and conflict resolution within multi-faceted roles and contexts
  3. Understand and respect cultural differences and multiple ways of knowing
  4. Practice from an ethic of inclusivity
  5. Establish and maintain wellness strategies to assure work/life balance both personally and professionally
  6. Engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and reflective practice

Program Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

  • Completion of English Studies 12 or equivalent with a minimum of 60% or higher
  • A minimum of 30 hours paid or voluntary work experience with appropriate groups
  • Applicants who have previously completed a related certificate and are returning for entry into the second year of a Human Services Diploma are required to provide evidence of completion of a certificate in ECCE, EACSW, SSW or equivalent within the last five years. Acceptance for those who graduated prior to five years will be based on evidence of work in the human service field and/or professional development.
  • Applicants with 30 university transfer credits related to human services work, work experience in a related field, and the personal suitability requirements of the certificate programs will be considered for entry into the second year of a Human Services diploma on an individual basis.

Additional Requirements

  • An official copy of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts
  • Two completed Human Services reference forms
  • A 30-hour work experience form completed by a supervisor who has observed the applicant in a volunteer or paid work situation is required
  • Proof of a negative tuberculosis test or of a clear chest X-ray that is less than 6 months old for those who have been requested to have this from our community partners
  • A current criminal record check from the Ministry of Justice. Some types of criminal records may limit or prohibit acceptance in field placement; acceptance into field placement is a requirement for program promotion.
  • Current resumé
  • Personal statement of interest (250 words)
  • An orientation session is required and will be arranged by the program designate

Graduation and Promotion

In order to receive your credential in your program, you must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00.

Program Courses

Upon successful completion of your first year below are the second year courses.

Term 4

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours

Required courses

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours
HSER254Core Concepts in Human Services

3.00

45
HSER258Fundamentals of Change I

3.00

45
INDG287Introduction to Indigenous Teachings and Practices

3.00

45
 

HSER276Issues in Youth

3.00

45
Or

UAS000UAS Electives

3.00

45
 

GERO200Contemporary Issues in Gerontology

3.00

45
Or

UAS000UAS Electives

3.00

45
 

PSYC240Child Development

3.00

45

See the UAS Courses by discipline page for the UAS elective option.

Term 5

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours

Required courses

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours
HSER255Professional Foundations for Human Services

3.00

45
 

HSER257Mental Health Issues: Practical Responses

3.00

45
Or

UAS000UAS Electives

3.00

45
 

HSER259Fundamentals of Change II

3.00

45
HSER281Directed Studies Methods

3.00

45
PSYC241Adult Development

3.00

45
See the UAS Courses by discipline page for the UAS elective option.

Term 6

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours

Required courses

CodeTitleCreditsTotal Hours
HSER280Advanced Human Service Practicum

5.00

210

Additional Program Policies

Effective Term:

Grading Table: