Community and Health Services Navigation (CHSN)

Cut through the confusion and guide people to the support they need

A navigator is an effective listener who understands how individuals and families can access complex services like health care, developmental and educational institutions, law and justice systems, mental health and addiction agencies, women’s centres, and social welfare systems to get the care they need. Whether you are already working in human services or looking to move into a career helping people navigate life’s challenges, this program offers practical training to prepare you for frontline roles in health care and community services teams where your support truly matters.

How long does it take to complete the program?

If you begin in September on a full-time basis you'll complete the program in 10 months. Other pathways (e.g., January start, part-time) will vary.

Program highlights

• Complete a six-week placement to gain hands-on experience or choose a capstone project tailored to your role or interests

• Build practical communication and coordination skills for frontline roles
• Practice real-life scenarios to build confidence and job readiness

• Get personalized support, including one-on-one guidance from your program coordinator

• No prior experience in the helping professions is required 

Program of study for 2026-27 academic year 

Transfer Credits

Students with degrees in related fields may be eligible for transfer credits. Connect with the program coordinator to see if you can receive credit for some of your courses.

Admission requirements

• Applicants must be graduates of a diploma, advanced diploma, or degree program from an Ontario College or equivalent.
• The applicant's prior education does not have to be from a helping-related profession.

OR

• Applicants must possess five years of work experience in a related field (or a combination of education and work experience) as judged by the College to be equivalent. Applicants must submit a resume detailing their related experience and a cover letter outlining their competencies and preparedness for the program (any and all post-secondary transcripts must still be submitted).

Additional admission requirements

• Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency.
• Cambrian College accepts the TOEFL, or IELTS, or equivalent test to satisfy our English admission requirements.

Recommendations

• It is highly encouraged to have strong written and oral communication skills to succeed in the program
   

Program delivery

2026-2027

Fall term start

Semester 1:  Fall 2026
Semester 2:  Winter 2027
Semester 3: Spring 2027

Winter term start

Semester 1: Winter 2027
Semester 2: Fall 2027
Semester 3: Winter 2028

Specific program pathways

College or university degree opportunities  

If you are a graduate of this program, you may continue your studies at a college or university, and you may receive credit(s) for your prior college education. Refer to Cambrian's college and university agreement details for further information. 

Employment opportunities

Our graduates are working in roles across health care, mental health, addictions, education, justice, social, and developmental services. The skills you will gain are transferrable and highly valued by many different organizations. You can succeed with or without previous helping experience.

Sample organizations that have hired our graduates:

• Alzheimer's Society
• Health Sciences North
• Ontario Health Teams
• Ontario 211
• Canadian Mental Health Association
• Elizabeth Fry Society
• John Howard Society
• DeafBlind Ontario Services
• March of Dimes Canada
• Ontario Disability Support Services

Sample job titles include:

• Patient flow supervisor
• Community support worker
• Resource and referral specialist
• Mental health case manager
• Smoking cessation coach
• Outreach and intake coordinator