Social Services Worker (SSPG)

Support individuals in overcoming barriers to social justice 

Are you committed to social justice? Learn to work with vulnerable or at-risk individuals, families, and groups experiencing barriers to stable housing, education, employment, health care, and social services. 
 
You may find a rewarding career in social service if you have good interpersonal skills, a desire to promote social justice, and are team-oriented. You'll be challenged to bring a distinct level of maturity and motivation to your work, along with a fundamental belief in the dignity and potential of people. Through intensive coursework and field experiences, you'll learn effective communication and helping skills. As a graduate, you qualify to register as a Social Service Worker in Ontario. 

Program highlights

• Part-time and fast-track options if you have a diploma or degree in a related field 
• Hands-on learning and real-world experience 
• Two placements with community-based organization  
• Recognized by Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers 
• Option to earn a second diploma in another community services program in just one year when you graduate 

Program of study for 2025-26 Academic Year 

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For more information regarding General Education courses, click here.

Admission requirements

To qualify for admission to the SSPG program, students must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or they must qualify for mature student status, including:

• Any grade 12 English (C) or (U)

Additional admission requirements

• To participate in field placements, students will need Synergy Basic clearance including: First Aid, CPR C, CPIC Vulnerable Sector Check, WHIMIS, AODA, Workplace Health & Safety, Workplace Violence & Prevention, and a WSIB Student Agreement
• Additional medical clearance may be required for some placement sites which support vulnerable populations, including: MMR, TB Step 1 and 2, Varicella, Tetanus/ Diphtheria (Td), Pertussis, Polio, and Hepatitis B.
• See the Field Placement manual for more information.

Program delivery

2025-26

Fall term start

SEMESTER 1:  Fall 2025
SEMESTER 2:  Winter 2026
SEMESTER 3:  Fall 2026
SEMESTER 4:   Winter 2027

Winter term start

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

Registration to practice / additional testing

Individuals who wish to use the title Social Service Worker or Registered Social Service Worker must be registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Cambrian's program is recognized by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Graduation from our program qualifies you to register as a Social Service Worker in Ontario. Students and graduates are also eligible to become members of the Ontario Social Service Worker Association. 

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 Options

Graduates may seek employment in various positions within the following sectors:

• Social service agencies of the municipal, provincial, and federal governments
• Childcare agencies
• Charitable organizations
• Immigration and refugee services
• Residential and group homes 
• Long-term care and retirement homes
• Employment services
• Disability services
• Education
• Indigenous communities and services
• Homelessness/Poverty/Housing Services
• Addiction and mental health agencies
• Child welfare agencies 
• Children, youth, and family services
• Health care 
• Policy and program development
• Research