Social Service Worker

Centennial College’s Social Service Worker diploma prepares students to become skilled practitioners, advocates, and agents of social change within a complex and evolving social landscape. The program builds a strong foundation in knowledge, values, and ethical practice, enabling students to work effectively with diverse individuals, families, groups, and communities. Through a combination of theory and applied learning, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while gaining insight into the expanding roles and responsibilities within the social services sector.

Grounded in an anti-oppressive and social justice framework, the program explores key themes such as anti-Black racism, Indigenous perspectives, power and privilege, counselling, community development, case management, advocacy, mental health, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care. Students are encouraged to engage in reflective practice, examining how personal values and broader social systems shape both challenges and solutions in social work. Graduates develop competencies in professional communication, ethical relationship-building, and service delivery across multiple levels, preparing them to design and implement responsive programs that address diverse community needs.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent.

What You’ll Learn

• Develop counselling, communication, and case management skills to support individuals and communities.
• Learn anti-oppressive, social justice–focused approaches, including understanding power, privilege, and systemic inequality.
• Gain knowledge in mental health, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and community development.
• Build skills in advocacy, program planning, and ethical, professional practice across diverse social service settings.