Personal Support Worker (PSPG)

Improve the dignity and quality of others’ lives as a PSW

The perfect storm of an aging population, shorter hospital stays, and a shortage of specialists make the personal support worker (PSW) profession in demand. Our tailored program prepares you to be confident, able, and ready to work in just 28 weeks, combining classroom learning with hands-on training to promote independence and quality of life for those who live in a facility or community setting. 
 
First, you’ll learn to assist clients with daily living activities by getting hands-on experience in our 1,200-square-foot apartment simulation lab and nursing skills lab. The second semester is a clinical consolidation and preceptorship, where you will polish your skills with 270 hours in a health care setting under the guidance of experienced PSWs and a faculty member. Upon completion, you’ll become a confident, caring, and job-ready PSW. 

Program highlights 

• Be job-ready in just 28 weeks 
• Hands-on training in 1,200-square-foot apartment simulation lab and nursing lab
• 270 hours of real-world experience in a clinical setting  
• Grads can pursue a nursing diploma through Cambrian’s PSW to Practical Nursing Pathway program

Program of study for 2025-26 Academic Year 

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)
• Any grade 11 (C), (U), or (M) or grade 12 mathematics (C) or (U)

Additional admission requirements

At registration students must provide the following to Synergy:

• Proof of current immunization
• Proof (original certificate) of CPR HCP and Standard First Aid
• Original copy of an Adult Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sectors Check
• Complete Cambrian College WHMIS, AODA, General Safety Awareness course (online approximately $10)

Recommendations

• Any grade 12 Biology (U)

Program delivery

2025-2026

Fall term start

SEMESTER 1:  Fall 2025
SEMESTER 2:  Winter 2026

Winter term start

SEMESTER 1:  Winter 2026
SEMESTER 2:  Spring 2026

Spring term start

SEMESTER 1:  Spring 2026
SEMESTER 2:  Fall 2026

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. 

Graduates from this program (or equivalent) may be eligible for advanced standing in the Practical Nursing program and apply for direct entry into semester two. Students looking to take advantage of this pathway, must complete the PSW to PN Nursing Transformation pathway through Ontario Learn, prior to requesting admission to the Practical Nursing program.

Employment opportunities

Graduates are prepared for employment opportunities in:

• Community settings
• Long-term care facilities
• Hospital settings