In the two-year Social Service Worker Ontario College Diploma program, you gain the skills and knowledge to work effectively with individuals, groups and communities dealing with personal and social problems. Through theory and practical experiences, the program prepares you to support a wide range of client groups and communities who are in the process of change or growth, including those impacted by issues such as: loss and separation family crisis poverty violence homelessness addiction disability unemployment oppression resettlement issues As a student, you complete three semesters in field placement experiences totaling almost 700 hours. You identify, practice and incorporate theoretical knowledge at a level that provides top client service. As well, you strengthen the bond between yourself and the community by participating in various applied research projects and direct practice opportunities. With these opportunities, you are ready to work on the front line of social services. Graduates may secure employment as Social Service Workers in provincial, municipal and private social service agencies including: social service departments long-term care facilities addiction and mental health services schools and youth services community health and resource centres shelters residential treatment programs