Social Service Worker

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Langara Social Service Worker Program have an excellent track record in gaining employment in the fields of work that interest them. Graduates are prepared for entry level employment in a variety of social service and health-related agencies While some students may choose to continue with their education, many find immediate work at the entry level in a whole range of social and health services. The social service sector is dynamic and always evolving. Once graduates have found employment in an organization, many find that the development of new programs, staff turnover and changes in current funding priorities provide opportunities for advancement. Many graduates of the program who are considering continuing their education find that their Certificate or Coordinated Diploma opens doors to employment and helps them to gain important experience. It also helps them to fund future educational opportunities.

Graduates are hired by agencies serving children and youth, programs for women, schools, Neighbourhood Houses and family serving organizations. They also find work in programs for persons with disabilities, advocacy programs, shelters for persons with mental health and substance abuse issues, seniors' programs, immigrant-serving agencies and programs for Aboriginal and First Nations Peoples.

Program Outcomes

The Social Service Worker Program aims to provide graduates with:

•        excellent interpersonal communication skills
•        a professional manner
•        a respect for diversity
•        empathy and a caring attitude
•        an understanding of problems and issues of individuals and families in the social environment
•        knowledge of community resources
•        social work principles and ethics
•        problem solving abilities
•        an ability to work effectively in groups
•        a knowledge of social policy
•        a combination of academic, experiential and community-based learning that focuses on the theory   and practice of delivering basic social services
•        skills for self-care

Social Service Worker Certificate

A Social Service Worker Certificate is awarded to students who successfully complete the two four-month terms and subsequent five-week full time practicum.

Social Service Worker Co-ordinated Diploma

A Social Service Worker Co-ordinated Diploma is awarded to students who have also completed an additional 10 courses (minimum 30 credits) of Arts & Science academic studies at Langara College.