FAQs

Frequently asked questions for Social Service Worker

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we have had to make significant changes to how we deliver our programs in order to maintain a high quality learning experience while ensuring the safety of our students and staff.

All courses will be delivered remotely for the Fall 2021 semester, with no requirement to be on campus. Faculty will use Zoom, and other virtual tools to teach course materials in a fun and interactive manner. Courses will have some real-time activities where you will meet with your classmates and teacher at a scheduled time, as well as some independent course work to be completed on your own. Class activities may include using breakout rooms for collaborative work, group discussions, or virtual activities. This program is well-suited to remote delivery.

We have also transitioned our services to virtual delivery and we have developed many new resources to support your success, such as our new Student Learning Kit. You may also wish to participate in one of our upcoming virtual events for prospective students to learn more about what’s in-store for you this Fall.

Your timetable is planned to be released on August 6, 2021.

What are the admission requirements for this program?

The program admission takes into account your grade 12 English grade (65% minimum) or equivalent.

Who is well suited for the Social Service Worker (SSW) Program?

Those who: Are committed to addressing social issues, such as poverty, homelessness, oppression and human rights.

  • Have effective interpersonal skills.
  • Are team-oriented and enjoy working with others.
  • Deal effectively with stressful situations.
  • Understanding the importance of effective communication with clients and community/partners.
  • Have resolved personal issues and challenges.

Algonquin College, Pembroke Campus, Social Service Worker Program“I really enjoyed my time in the Social Service Worker program at Algonquin College in Pembroke. When my husband was deployed to Afghanistan I had a rough time dealing with it emotionally but my teachers were very understanding and they supported me through it all. After I graduated, I was employed right away in my field. We ended up getting posted and I decided to stay home with my children for a few years. After 6 years, I decided to go back to work and am gainfully employed again. I had no troubles finding work in my field, and as a Social Service Worker grad, I know that my job is transferable to wherever we end up. I loved the program and I loved the challenges we had as well as the fun.”

-Suki Okorofsky, Military Spouse and parent, Social Service Worker Graduate

Do I have to secure my own fieldwork placements within the program?

The College has many social work employers who provide work placement experiences to students. However, students are expected to actively promote themselves to suitable agencies and organizations that can provide placement opportunities. Students will be interviewed by supervisors within these organizations, who ultimately will make the choice of whether they provide a clinical learning experience to the student.

Are Social Service Workers registered professionals?

Social Service Workers have a professional organization. Graduates of the SSW program are required by law to join the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) in order to use this professional title.

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