Coordinators: Jane Barken, Lindy Powell

September and January Entry
Regular or Accelerated programs

Program Length:
Two-Year Diploma

Career Opportunities:
Over the past few years, change has been constant in the field of developmental services. This has created diverse career opportunities across Canada and abroad for graduates. This trend will continue as people with handicaps and their families search for meaningful ways to participate in society as valued citizens, and to receive support in ways that are effective yet non-disruptive to their lives.

Because of the extensive and diverse skills and competencies attained, graduates find employment in many different areas. This includes working with people of differing ages, linguistics, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, in a wide range of settings. Because of gained skills in community building, health care and literacy training, some recent graduates obtained employment in developing countries.

Graduates work as developmental service workers, activity directors, educational assistants in schools, with seniors, and in the health, employment, and recreational fields. Employment levels for graduates have been extremely high.

Program Description:
As the largest program in Ontario with over 2000 graduates in the field, Loyalist has been a leader in curriculum development, which complements what is happening in the working world. An example of this is the Applied Medications Certificate, which is considered to be an essential asset in the DSW field, and is currently offered only through Loyalist.

The first year is primarily classroom based while the entire second year offers more than 1000 hours of real-world training experience. This combination helps students develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that can empower people with developmental and/or physical handicaps, and enable participation and enjoyment in all aspects of living. The four seven-week, second-year field-placement opportunities provide graduates with valuable training and experience which will assist them in a successful job search. Students choose from a menu of over 60 possible placement locations, all of whom hire our graduates. This allows students to customize their educational experience to fit their interests.

The program can be individualized to meet the needs of students with transfer credits or other requirements. Some program components are available during a summer semester and can accelerate a learner’s progress through the program.

DSWA – Accelerated Program:

A formal 10-month Accelerated program, including the Applied Medications Certificate, is available to entrants who have already completed a related diploma or degree.

Approximate Costs (2003– 2004):
Tuition: $2,358.00 (two semesters)
Books and Supplies: $1,040.00

Admission Requirements:
(a) Required academic preparation –
OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U), (U/C) or (O) or
mature applicant

(b) Health: A formal confidential personal health history is required as part of the registration process. All applicants must be aware of the basic health requirements for employment and for program practicum. Prospective students with special needs or limitations that may affect their practicum/field placement or potential employment opportunities, are encouraged to discuss their program and career goals with faculty prior to admission.

(c) Prior to entering the second year, students are required to produce:
• evidence that they have successfully completed a Standard First Aid Certification as well as Basic or 'C' Level CPR qualifications approved by the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation;
• evidence that a criminal record check has been completed through their local police service.

Loyalist/University Transfer:
The Applied Medications Certificate and other courses are available to employees of regional agencies. The Loyalist DSW diploma has been used as equivalent to one-year credit at several Ontario universities, and for two years’ credit towards the B.A.A. (Disability Studies) at Ryerson University.

DSWD – DISTANCE FORMAT:
Due to the high demand for our grads, students may now access the program in the following formats: on site, via correspondence, or over the Internet. Since this is a new initiative, Loyalist will do everything practicable to support students to complete the program, but reserves the right to make changes in format and delivery, including continuation of on-line availability of any or all of the program, as it deems necessary. In addition, students can use a challenge process to gain credit for prior experience and learning. Contact the co-ordinator for details.

DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES WORKER
CURRICULUM:
Course Descriptions