This program prepares students with the foundational knowledge and core skills required to work in the diverse and challenging field of eldercare. Theories relevant to the Social Service Worker profession, its ethics, values and practice standards, the aging process and the needs of seniors are emphasized.

Program content includes essential Social Service Worker training in interpersonal communication, case management, interviewing, group work intervention, diversity, advocacy, social justice, and community practice. In addition, a number of specialized courses such as Activation and Restorative Care, Recreation, Leisure and Therapeutic Program Planning, Dementia Care, Adult Development, Death, Dying, Grief and Bereavement and Volunteer Management expand the knowledge and skill base of students beyond traditional social service worker roles.

Program Highlights:

• Students who successfully complete the Social Service Worker - Gerontology diploma and the block field placement are eligible for registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and may then use the title of Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW). • Field placement experience, a 510-hour block field placement arranged with agencies providing services to older adults. • Faculty teaching in the program come with extensive experience in the social work and community sectors. • Future pathways to success – on completion, students may gain advanced standing towards a Bachelor of Social Work, a Bachelor in Gerontology, a Bachelor in Disabilities Studies, or an Honours Therapeutic Recreation Degree at specific universities.

IMPORTANT: COVID-19 vaccination is not required to attend St. Clair College, some of the placement sites may require students to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 to be eligible to attend. St. Clair College cannot predict if a placement site will require full vaccination. If placements sites do require students to be fully vaccinated to attend their place of business, students who are not fully vaccinated cannot be provided with a placement for their program and therefore will not be able to complete their programs.