Community Social Services

Community Social Services program formerly called Family & Community Social Services
 

Explore current social issues and understand the challenges faced by vulnerable populations so you can learn how to deliver impactful services, such as counselling and mediation. Build strong clinical skills that exceed the industry standard for undergraduate education. Learn basic communication competencies to more in-depth therapeutic interventions while gaining the transferable skills to improve lives and change society.

Areas of emphasis (AOE)
You may choose to focus on one of two areas of emphasis: Mental Health & Addictions or Youth & Families. You can start taking AOE courses as early as your first year (winter semester). For graduation, you will declare the AOE in your third year, heading into your final year of studies.

First Year
Focus on understanding human behaviour and issues related to individuals, families and groups.
 

Second Year
Engage in theoretical and practical studies in counselling, ethical and professional issues, and working with various client populations.
 

Third and Fourth Year
Work with diverse groups and learn theory and techniques in areas such as family therapy, case management and crisis intervention. If you’re interested in research, you may complete an undergraduate thesis project in your 4^th year with the support of a CSS faculty member.

Mental health education
During your studies, you have an opportunity to complete the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s Mental Health First Aid Certification at no additional cost.
 

Clinical focus
With many courses in counselling for different populations, our program has a distinct clinical focus. Your toolkit for social services work. Graduate with important skills in social services—how to listen, how to support someone, understanding boundaries, professionalism, cultural awareness, compassion, global citizenship and self-care.

Global issues
Grab the opportunity to strengthen your research, analytical, communication, critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving skills through the investigation of historical and contemporary international issues related to social justice in the Leadership & Advocacy for Global Issues course. The course includes participation in an international conference!

Get registered
In your final semester, apply for registration as a Social Service Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.


Note: Check with the institution regarding start/end dates, prices, and delivery method. These may vary according to program, section, and/or semester.