Social Service Worker – Gerontology

This program prepares students with foundational knowledge and skills to support seniors through an anti-oppressive lens, focusing on aging, ethics, and core social service worker practices such as communication, case management, advocacy, and group intervention. Specialized courses cover dementia care, restorative programming, grief and bereavement, and volunteer management, broadening students’ expertise beyond traditional roles.

Students complete a 510-hour block field placement with agencies serving older adults, gaining hands-on experience. Graduates are eligible to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and can pursue further studies in social work, gerontology, disability studies, or therapeutic recreation. Career opportunities include roles in retirement homes, long-term care, adult day programs, dementia care, elder abuse services, and community-based seniors’ programs.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma, or equivalent.
• Grade 12 English.

What You’ll Learn

• Understand the psychological, socio-cultural, and biological dimensions of aging.
• Challenge common myths and stereotypes about older adults.
• Explore key theories and processes related to late adulthood and aging.
• Examine challenges faced by aging populations in contemporary society.
• Learn foundational principles of community development, including power and social justice.
• Study intervention strategies and helping roles tailored to aging and other special populations.