Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated)
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Program Overview
The Development Services Worker (Accelerated) program takes students to their career in just 12 months. Students will become specialized in working with children and adults with developmental disabilities. Graduates will be able to build relationships with family members, and work well with other support members. Students will find employment as a support worker, advocate or educational assistant.
Program Details
Program Code
DSW5J
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
48 weeks
Canadian Students
Start Dates
Locations
Availability
Full Time Offerings
2025 January
Simcoe
Open
2025 March
Simcoe
Open
2025 April
Simcoe
Open
2025 May
Simcoe
Open
2025 July
Simcoe
Open
2025 August
Simcoe
Open
2025 October
Simcoe
Open
2025 November
Simcoe
Open
2026 January
Simcoe
Open
2026 March
Simcoe
Open
2026 April
Simcoe
Open
2026 May
Simcoe
Open
2026 July
Simcoe
Open
2024 October
Simcoe
Closed
2024 November
Simcoe
Closed
Your Learning Experience
With the accelerated option of the Developmental Services Worker program, you’ll go from student to career in just 12 months. If you believe that having a positive and direct impact on the lives of people with developmental disabilities is a career worth pursuing, and are looking for personal and professional satisfaction on a daily basis, Fanshawe’s Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program will guide you toward your goals.
You’ll become a specialist in working with children and adults with developmental disabilities. Your courses will be dynamic with a focus on:
- Disabilities;
- Mental health;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Counselling;
- Health;
- Pharmacology;
- Teaching;
- And intervention strategies.
As well, you’ll learn how to collaborate and build relationships with family members, and to work with the diverse network of support for people with developmental disabilities. You’ll also participate in a field placement as part of an agency or school, gaining hands on skills and first-hand experience.
HyFlex Delivery
The Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) program is currently offered as a HyFlex program. Classes are delivered in a blended format and placements are in-person. Classes on Monday through Thursday are delivered exclusively online, while Friday's classes are HyFlex. HyFlex Friday classes are delivered both online via Zoom and in the classroom at the College, allowing the student to decide which delivery format works for them. These interactive classes allow for a practical learning experience that actively engages students in each lesson.
Career Information
Graduates of Fanshawe's Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) program may find employment opportunities in working with people with developmental disabilities in a variety of settings such as in their homes, day programs providing employment and/or leisure support, working on a clinical or case coordination teams, or in schools as educational assistants, and camps. New graduates are employed as direct support professionals or educational assistants.
Did you know Fanshawe consistently ranks high in graduation employment rates among large colleges in Ontario?
Here are some examples of career opportunities for graduates of Fanshawe’s Developmental Services Worker (Fast Track) program:
Developmental Services Worker
Support people in all stages of life who have a developmental disability.
Educational Assistant
Act as support staff in elementary and secondary school classrooms.
Direct Support Professional
Help people become integrated and engaged in their community or the least restrictive environment.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to
- Conduct oneself in an ethical*, competent* and accountable* manner in all professional relationships.
- Provide person-directed supports and services that respect and promote self-determination for people with developmental disabilities
- Provide for the safety of people with developmental disabilities, self and others in compliance with all applicable legislation, regulations and standards of practice*.
- Support health and well-being of people with developmental disabilities.
- Employ and adapt formal and informal strategies to support the learning of people with developmental disabilities.
- Provide leadership in the development of inclusive communities*
- Develop professional and personal plans that enhance job performance and well-being.
Related Programs
Academic School
Program Coordinator:
Lorraine Purgret
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent,
or a mature
applicant with the following course
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Students who do not meet the admission requirements are
recommended for academic
upgrading. A conditional offer may be possible with proof of
enrolment.
International Admission Equivalencies
Admission equivalencies for Fanshawe depends on your country of study. Please enter your location to see the requirements for your country below.
English Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English by one of the following methods:
- A Grade 12 College Stream or University Stream English credit from an Ontario Secondary School, or equivalent, depending on the program's Admission Requirements
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test with a minimum score of 79 for the Internet-based test (iBT), with test results within the last two years
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test with an overall score of 6.0 with no score less than 5.5 in any of the four bands, with test results within the last two years. SDS Program Requirements
- Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) test with an overall score of 60 with no score less than 50 in any of the four bands, with test results within the last two years
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) with a minimum score of 53, with test results within the last two years
- A Cambridge English Test (FCE/CAE/CPE) with an overall score on the Cambridge English Scale of 169 with no language skill less than 162, with test results within the last two years
- An English Language Evaluation (ELE) at Fanshawe College with a minimum score of 70% in all sections of the test, with test results within the last two years
- Fanshawe College ESL4/GAP5 students: Minimum grade of 80% in ESL4/GAP5 Level 8, 75% in ESL4/GAP5 Level 9, or 70% in ESL4/GAP5 Level 10
Recommended Academic Preparation
Recommended Academic Preparation
- Any Grade 12 Mathematics (C) or (U)
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 Biology (C) or (U)
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 Chemistry (C) or (U)
- Grade 11 Raising Healthy Children (O)
- Grade 11 Working with Infants and Young Children (C)
- Grade 12 Challenge and Change in Society (U)
- Grade 12 Families in Canada (C) or (U)
- Grade 12 Human Development Throughout the Lifespan (M)
Recommended Personal Preparation
Recommended Personal Preparation
- Students should develop personal responsibility and leadership traits by participating in school and social organizations which are concerned with helping people
- Work or volunteer experience in this field is important
Applicant Selection Criteria
Applicant Selection Criteria
Where the number of eligible applicants exceeds the available spaces in the program, the Applicant Selection Criteria will be:
- Preference for Permanent Residents of Ontario
- Receipt of Application by February 1st (After this date, Fanshawe College will consider applicants on a first-come, first-served basis until the program is full)
- Achievement in the Admission Requirements
Note:
- Admission to the Fanshawe College Human Services Foundation program does not guarantee admission in a subsequent year to the Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) program. Successful completion of the Fanshawe College Human Services Foundation program, however, does enable the student to be given additional consideration when applying to the Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) program. The Human Services Foundation program is the preferred designated preparatory program for admission to the Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) program.
Post-Admission Requirements
Post-Admission Requirements
The following items are applicable to the program:
- Possession of a Standard First Aid course certificate (either St. John Ambulance or Canadian Red Cross or equivalent) and a Basic Rescuer course certificate (Level "C" CPR)
- Evidence of Good Health
- Police Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening, including a check of the Pardoned Sexual Offenders Database
- Placement Agreement
DSW5J - Developmental Services Worker (Accelerated) (Simcoe/Norfolk Regional Campus)
Courses
| DSW - Accelerated | ||||
| Gen Ed - Take 2 General Education elective courses. Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| DEVL-3002 | Professional Development | 7 | ||
| This course prepares students for assuming the responsibilities associated with professional practice. Students examine their personal values in the context of their professional obligations and ethical standards. The personal characteristics of the human service professional including a commitment to excellence, life long learning, professional development and wellness will also be addressed. | ||||
| FLDP-3005 | Professional Development Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Early Childhood Education students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: Licensed Child Care- In this block the student must complete 1 practicum in each of the following groups: Infant, Toddler & Pre-school. Block Two & Three: School-Age practicums - In this block the student must complete three school age practicums, and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| SOCI-3014 | Lifespan Development | 4 | ||
| This course prepares students to recognize developmental periods in a person's life. Emphasis will be placed on the pattern and sequence of development in each developmental period. Factors influencing development will also be considered. | ||||
| FLDP-3006 | Lifespan Development Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Early Childhood Education students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: Licensed Child Care- In this block the student must complete 1 practicum in each of the following groups: Infant, Toddler & Pre-school. Block Two & Three: School-Age practicums - In this block the student must complete three school age practicums, and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| LAWS-3047 | Legislation | 7 | ||
| This course give students an opportunity to review and apply the requirements of current legislation and regulatory bodies within a framework of ethical and professional standards. An emphasis will be placed on establishing safe and healthy environments and the careful consideration of changing social contexts when developing policies and procedures. | ||||
| FLDP-3007 | Legislation Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Early Childhood Education students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: Licensed Child Care- In this block the student must complete 1 practicum in each of the following groups: Infant, Toddler & Pre-school. Block Two & Three: School-Age practicums - In this block the student must complete three school age practicums, and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| BSCI-3022 | Knowledge of Developmental Disabilities | 9 | ||
| This course examines the history of developmental disabilities in Ontario. Students will also examine the key characteristics and etiology of common developmental disabilities, treatment approaches and community services. | ||||
| BSCI-1007 | Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis | 3 | ||
| This course provides the Developmental Services Worker student with a working knowledge of mental health disorders focusing on the symptomatology and interventions within the context of dual diagnosis. Students will be able to describe the etiology and classification of mental health disorders and dual diagnosis as well as the factors affecting the prevalence and predisposition of dual diagnosis. Students will be able to describe the bio-psychosocial model and strategies for supporting people with a dual diagnosis. | ||||
| BSCI-3031 | Responsive Relationships | 7 | ||
| This course emphasizes responsive relationships between individuals, their families and the Developmental Services Worker. Students will explore key issues that will ensure rights of persons with developmental disabilities are kept first and foremost in all situations. | ||||
| FLDP-3008 | Responsive Relationships Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| BSCI-3032 | Planning Tools & Strategies | 7 | ||
| This course prepares students to utilize a variety of tools and strategies which empower individuals and their families. Respectful teaching and facilitation practices are introduced and discussed as a method of ensuring the development of life skills. | ||||
| FLDP-3009 | Planning Tools & Strategies Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| BSCI-3047 | Fundamentals of Personal Care | 7 | ||
| This course prepares students for best practices in the promotion of the health and well-being of persons with developmental disabilities. | ||||
| FLDP-3029 | Fundamentals of Personal Care Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
| COMM-3090 | Communication & Advocacy | 7 | ||
| This course focuses on professional written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills. Students will use a variety of technological supports as a means of enhancing their recording and documentation responsibilities in their related professions. In addition, students will learn about research methods and documentation formats as a basis for developing their critical thinking and advocacy skills. The goal of this course is to prepare students for the communication tasks and considerations as they relate to the changing social context of their practice in the community. | ||||
| FLDP-3048 | Communication & Advocacy Practicum | 2 | ||
| This practicum is designed to allow students an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the academic component of this module, and develop the skills needed to practice in the profession. Special emphasis during this practicum experience is on demonstrated professional attitudes and behaviours, critical reflection in practice, and consolidating knowledge of theory with skills developed in practice. Post admission requirements in order to participate in the practicum course include; completion of the mandatory practicum sessions satisfactorily, valid Standard First Aid/CPR level C certification, completed Vulnerable Sector Police Check, completed Pre Placement Health Form, successful completion of mandatory modules, and successful completion of the corresponding academic course component. Early Childhood Education students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: Licensed Child Care- In this block the student must complete 1 practicum in each of the following groups: Infant, Toddler & Pre-school. Block Two & Three: School-Age practicums - In this block the student must complete three school age practicums, and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. Developmental Services Worker students will complete three practicum blocks. Block One: 3 practicums in a Supported Living or Group Living in a community-based agency. Block Two & Three: 3 Educational Assistant practicums and 1 Non-Traditional Setting practicum. | ||||
Tuition Summary
Simcoe
*Total program costs are approximate, subject to change and do not include the health and dental plan fee, bus pass fee or program general expenses.