Diploma in Developmental Services Worker - Online

Students enrolled in this program are eligible to register for our Specialized Academic Certificate, Indigenous Knowledges: First Peoples in Canada, and earn an additional credential. A fee may apply. For more information, visit Specialized Academic Certificates. Note: You may also be interested in the in-person option. Unlock your potential with Centennial College’s highly esteemed Developmental Services Worker program! Centennial College's Developmental Services Worker program is highly regarded by established professionals, graduates, families, service agencies and people who have intellectual disabilities. Whether you opt for online learning or attend classes in person, your professors will support you throughout your academic journey, and you'll have ample chances to engage with peers hailing from various regions of Ontario and beyond. For this online program modality, all classes are online, with the exception of Field Placements, which require in-person attendance. Students will require a device to access classes. It should be equipped with a camera and microphone.  Some courses include a synchronous (live, in real-time) component, scheduled at specific days and times. Students must be prepared to fulfill placement requirements in person. Centennial College has various placement partners locally, provincially, and nationally, and will assist students with the placement matching process. Alternatively, students may choose to find their own placements independently. It is important to note that all placements must be approved by the Centennial College Placement Coordinator. The two-year college diploma program falls under the School of Community Care and Public Safety and will offer a strong foundation in the field of supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This health program's curriculum will reflect best practices, current and relevant knowledge and address up-to-date issues. It will emphasize a deep understanding of: the life experiences of people who have disabilities; the nature of intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities and Autism; valued social roles; advocacy; critical and reflective thinking; problem solving; effecting positive change; communication and teamwork; personal support requirements and techniques; teaching skills; time management; and accessing resources. Helping people to fill valued social roles as a part of society, teaching and the provision of personal and educational support are among some of the skills you'll develop. These skills will be applied through virtual experiential practice as well as field placement opportunities. As such, the Developmental Services Worker program will ensure you're equipped with the critical skills and knowledge to start your career directly upon graduation. Once you complete the Developmental Services Worker program, you'll support individuals of all ages who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. Support can be provided to individuals in their homes, at work, in schools and to their families. Your goal as a developmental services worker will be to enhance the capacity of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities to function in all aspects of community living and to support their full inclusion in all aspects of society. As a Developmental Services Worker program grad, you'll have the ability to: conduct yourself in an ethical, competent and accountable manner in all professional relationships; provide person-directed supports and services that respect and promote self-determination for people with developmental disabilities; provide for the safety of people with developmental disabilities, self and others in compliance with all applicable legislation, regulations and standards of practice; support the health and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities; employ and adapt formal and informal strategies to support the learning of people with developmental disabilities; provide leadership in the development of inclusive communities; develop strategies and plans that lead to improved personal job performance and the maintenance of you own well-being; and apply entrepreneurial strategies and skills to allow you to plan for your future and the changing needs in the Developmental Services Sector. Join Centennial College’s Developmental Services Worker program and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Start your journey towards a rewarding career today!