Your Career

Careers may be found in agencies including: private, government, and Native programs in the areas of mental health, education, addictions, outreach, family services and social welfare.

Program Information

OCAS Program Code: 1218
Campus: OSHKI
Credential Awarded: Ontario College Diploma
Awarding Institution: OSHKI / Sault College
College Length: 5 Semesters
Start Date: September 2010*

*start dates are subject to change

Program Eligibility

1. For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS):
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (U/C) or Open (O) preparation levels.
Required courses: Grade 12 College or University preparation English. OR

2. For graduates of the old curriculum (OS:IS):
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent. OR

3. Mature Student Status
To be eligible for Mature Student status an applicant must be a minimum of 19 years of age.

Applicant Selection

Applicants must meet the admission requirements for the Social Services Worker Native Specialization program delivered by Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education & Training Institute. As part of the admissions process each applicant must submit the following:

1. An Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Program Application Form.

2. An online or paper application to the Ontario College Application Services (OCAS).

3. Official transcript(s) from the last institution attended.

4. Proof of post-secondary sponsorship in the form of a written letter which states the name of the student, the program of study and the duration of sponsorship.

Program Description

This unique two-year diploma uses social work knowledge and skills with individuals, families and communities to reflect culturally based solutions in working with existing issues in First Nation, rural and urban communities. Those interested in giving back to their communities, advocating for social justice, and basically helping others will be drawn to work in the social services.

Native and non-Native students are encouraged to enter the program in order to develop a culturally competent, professional, client-centred approach to social services work. Both recent high school graduates and those students who have been out of school for a while thrive in our unique learning environment at Oshki-Pimache-O-Win. Knowledge and skills in the areas of mental health, addictions, family violence, working with groups/circles, grief issues and crisis intervention prepare students for entry into the helping professions. In addition to academic course work, students will also acquire 500 hours of hands on work experience through agency field placements.

The Social Service Worker - Native Specialization graduate will possess excellent professional skills built on the diverse world views. This allows Social Services Workers a unique voice in advocating and capacity building in Northern communities or anywhere they choose to practice.

Social Service Work is a regulated profession with standards for practice and established professional ethics regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Social Service Worker - Native Specialization students acquire the necessary skills and knowledge of this profession while respecting and understanding Aboriginal world views and approaches. The diploma received is recognized by the provincial government and grants eligibility for full professional membership in the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).

This program may be extended to allow for an additional semester.

Other Requirements

Prior to commencement of field placement, the following is required:

1. An up-to-date immunization record.
2. A recent Criminal Reference Check.
3. 2 step TB testing
4. Standard First Aid / CPR Level C

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the 2010-2011 academic year is $2,689.00. Tuition may be subject to change. 

Curriculum

Semester 1

CMM110 College Communications Skills
NSA 135 Anishinaabemowin Conversation
NSW 100 Addictions: Individuals, Family & Community
NSW 101 Foundations for Balanced Practice
NSW 103 The Parallel Worlds of Mental Health
PSY 102 Introduction to Psychology

Semester 2

CMM225 Human Services Communications
NSW 102 Capacity Building for Communities
NSW 104 Canadian Social Welfare & Aboriginal Social Policies
NSW 110 Canadian Aboriginal Peoples
NSW 111 Human Behaviour & Social Environment
NSW 112 Social Work with Families: Issues, Strengths & Services
PSY 218 Psycho-Social Approach to Human Development

Semester 3

NSA 214 Balancing Life, Loss and Grief
NSW 200 Groups for Multi-Cultural Practice
NSW 203 Essential Skills for SS
NSW 204 Patterns & Impacts of Family Abuse
NSW 205 Fieldwork Seminar for SS
NSW 206 Fieldwork Placement for SS I

Semester 4

NSA 204 Crisis Intervention
NSW 210 Fieldwork Seminar for SS I
NSW 221 Fieldwork Placement for SS II