Start Dates & Ontario Colleges Program Codes:
- Fall Start (September): 0139
- Fall Start (September) - Accelerated program: 0162
CIP Code: 19.0710 (PGWP eligible)
Do you love to work with people and want career options in your future? Do you hope to make a difference in the world? Supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a great way to do just that.
Confederation College’s Developmental Services Worker program will give you the skills and experience you need to support others in living their life to the fullest. As a Developmental Services Worker student, you will learn how to provide physical, emotional, educational, recreational, and social supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the lifespan and in all facets of life.
Coursework includes study in developmental disabilities, teaching strategies, health promotion, augmentative communication and assistive technology, pharmacology, dual diagnosis, trends and issues, behavioural supports, counselling skills and community development. If you believe in equity, diversity, and inclusion of all people in our community, this program is for you!
Top Highlights
- Two field placements for real-world learning experiences
- Comprehensive knowledge and skills to support individuals in reaching their full potential
- Hands-on practice in lab settings
- Collaborative event planning with community partners
- Accelerated program option for those with relevant diplomas or degrees
- Focus on inclusion, individualization, and empowerment
- Seamless Transition to University: Begin your academic journey at Confederation College and transfer directly into a related undergraduate degree at Lakehead University through a joint admission pathway.
Experiential Learning
- Interactive simulations and teaching labs
- Two field placements: one in a community-based setting with adults, another in a school-based setting
- Capstone projects integrating learned skills and knowledge
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Conduct oneself 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 health and well-being of people with developmental 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 professional and personal plans that enhance job performance and well-being.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Succeed in the Developmental Services Worker program if you are:
- Compassionate: Genuinely care about helping others achieve their goals
- Adaptable: Ready to face diverse challenges and find creative solutions
- Communicative: Skilled at interacting with people of all abilities
- Empowering: Committed to promoting self-determination and independence
Graduates support people with disabilities across the lifespan in various settings in Thunder Bay and the region, including:
- Avenue II
- Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario
- City of Thunder Bay Recreation & Culture Division Inclusion Services
- Community Living Thunder Bay
- Dilico
- OPTIONS northwest
- Lakehead Public Schools
- Superior Greenstone Association for Community Living
- St. Joseph’s Care Group
- Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Wesway
Roles include:
- Student Support Professional
- Employment Support Specialist
- Residential/Community Support Worker
- Independent Contractor
- Advocate
- Family Support Worker
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