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The Developmental Service Worker (Fast Track) is a one-year intensive program designed for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. You'll train to become a skilled practitioner capable of providing personalized care through curriculum focused on mental and physical wellness, relationship-building techniques, and strategies for fostering autonomy and positive behavioral interventions. Graduates typically secure roles as direct support providers or educational aides.
Through a holistic biopsychosocial framework, you'll develop into a thoughtful, competent professional assisting individuals of all ages in achieving greater independence while advocating for inclusive environments. The interactive coursework emphasizes health management, communication abilities, instructional methods, and constructive behavioral approaches. You'll master techniques for partnering with families and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams serving the developmental disability community. With more than 700 hours of hands-on training through community organizations and educational institutions, you'll acquire practical skills and self-assurance for your career. Additionally, you can apply earned credits toward degree programs at universities including Ryerson, Windsor, Calgary, and Western.
Fanshawe's DSW graduates enjoy excellent employment prospects, with nearly all securing meaningful positions within half a year as direct support specialists, case managers, service coordinators, or school-based educational assistants.
An Ontario College Diploma in Community Studies
OR
A University Degree in Psychology, Sociology or a related Social Sciences area
OR
A combination of relevant education and work experience in a related field as judged by the College to be equivalent to the above
English Language Requirements: