Developmental Services Worker (DSWP)

Make a difference to those who live with disabilities

Embark on a rewarding career and make a difference in the lives of children and adults who live with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities or dual diagnoses by learning how to support their emotional, mental, physical, and social needs. 
 
You'll gain a solid foundation of the stages of human development and the community supports available to those living with a disability. You'll learn alternate modes of communication, including sign language and a picture exchange communication system. Using a person-centred approach and positive reinforcement to build relationships, you'll help individuals with disabilities and their families live safe, respectful lives of quality and inclusion. 

Program highlights

• Choose to take this program on campus or online
• Community expert guest speakers 
• Field placement opportunities in all four semesters, with the potential of completing placement during paid employment
• Fast-track option if you have previous experience in the developmental services or education sector
• On-campus placement available in Cambrian's Career Pathway Certificate program supporting adult students with a variety of abilities. 

Study on campus or online

You can register for on-campus in-person classes or complete classes entirely online. Our engaging on-campus learning activities are ideal for those who prefer in-person and hands-on learning experiences. If you choose to complete this program online you'll be engaged in interactive self-navigating content using Cambrian's Learning Management System and can connect directly with professors virtually for content delivery and questions. If you're studying online you can also complete course presentations, evaluations, tests, assignments, and projects using Cambrian's Learning Management System. Field placements can be coordinated in your home community.

Program of study for 2026-27 Academic Year 

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For more information regarding General Education courses, click here.

Admission requirements

For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS): Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or mature student status, including:

• Any grade 12 English (C) or (U)

Additional admissions requirements

• Ability to support individuals living with disabilities in all aspects of daily living, such as lifting and transfers.

Student will be required to obtain the following prior to the end of their first semester in order to register for work placement: 

• Up to Date Immunizations (including at least one covid vaccine)
• Standard First Aid and Level C CPR
• Vulnerable Sector Screen (negative)
• Two step TB test
• International Students -co-op work permit
• Clearance through placement pass partner:

The cost of these requirements is a student responsibility.

Recommendations

• Computer competency in relevant software
• Any grade 11 mathematics (C), (U) or (M)
• Any grade 11 biology (C) or (U) or grade 12 biology (U)

Program delivery

2026-2027

Fall term start

SEMESTER 1:  Fall 2026
SEMESTER 2:  Winter 2027
SEMESTER 3:  Fall 2027
SEMESTER 4:   Winter 2028

Winter term start

SEMESTER 1:  Winter 2027
SEMESTER 2:  Spring 2027
SEMESTER 3:  Fall 2027
SEMESTER 4:   Winter 2028

Specific program pathways

Graduates of this program can further increase their skills and expand their options for employment by enrolling in:

• Applied Learning Disability Studies (LDGC)
• Community Health Services Navigation Program (CHSN)

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

Graduates support children and adults living with disabilities to live, work, play, and participate in their communities as valued citizens. This can lead to a range of positions, including:

• Developmental services professional/direct support professional
• Educational assistants – work effectively as a support staff member in elementary and secondary school classrooms to assist teachers and other classroom staff in implementing academic studies and education plans 
• Supported employment professional
• Independent contracting professional
• Respite professional
• Community participation/day support professional

Other potential career paths include positions in childcare, long-term care, post-secondary education, advocacy, community organizations, or acquired brain injury services.