Social Service Worker UT Diploma
Diploma
| Type | Part Time Full Time |
|---|---|
| Length | 2 years |
| Campus | Prince George Quesnel |
| Delivery | In Class |
| Fees* |
Estimated at $9131.79
International Check fee schedule
*All fees are an estimate. |
| Starting Semesters | Fall 2027 |
Overview
Are you looking for an introduction to a University program in Social Work? The Social Service Worker (UT) Diploma prepares you for the social service area and for entry into some universities’ degree programs.
Students admitted to this diploma may choose to complete the Aboriginal Services Specialization, which will prepare them for both transfer to university programming and/or employment in social services with an additional focus on Aboriginal social service delivery.
As part of their UT (University Transfer) elective choices, students wishing to complete the specialization are required to take two UT courses with an Indigenous or Aboriginal Studies focus. Students will be expected to complete a practicum at an Aboriginal agency.
Careers
After completing this Diploma, students may apply to some universities’ degree program. After completing a university degree, career opportunities can include:
- Child protection
- Probation management
- Mental health
- Residential treatment
- Alcohol and drug programs
Courses
The two year Social Service Worker (UT) Diploma prepares you for the social service area and for entry into some universities' degree programs. After completing a university degree, career opportunities can include child protection, probation, mental health, residential treatment, alcohol and drug programs, and more.
Required UT
ABST-100
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
History and Traditions of the Carrier People. This course is based on the traditional knowledge holders of our communities who are versed in the traditional ways of knowing that is not written down in any text but passed down through oral traditions. The course provides students with an in-depth study of Yinka Dene culture, language, spirituality, community, and social structures. Elders and topics will focus on the Yinka Dene of the north central interior of British Columbia.KINS-100
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
This course is in-depth introduction to the principles of health and wellness with particular emphasis on personal health. A review of education and research on a variety of student health issues, and their larger impact, will be investigated and discussed. Opportunities to develop skills and resources for optimal health as it relates to life and academic success are included.ABST-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
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Description
This course focuses on the diversity and development of Aboriginal communities and organizations in Canada. Attention is placed on the nature of Aboriginal/Euro-Canadian interactions from contact to present day in order for students to understand contemporary perspectives and issues relevant to Aboriginal peoplesPSYC-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This general survey course includes topics such as a brief history of psychology, basic research methodology, biological psychology, sensation, perception, consciousness, learning, memory, language and thought.SOC-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course is an introduction to the basic sociological theories and methods for studying individuals, groups, and institutions with Canadian materials and Indigenous content. Topics will include culture, socialization, families, education, gender, aging, and deviance. These concerns will be illustrated and developed with Canadian materials.WMST-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Intersession Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course uses a multidisciplinary approach to the study of women in society and academia. It explores interdisciplinary and historical perspectives on women and examines the development of feminist theories and methodologies. Emphasis is placed on the diversity of women's experience within the context of differences in class, race, age, and sexual orientation. The connections between women's experiences in the everyday world and their representation in Canadian institutions will be explored, with the aim of understanding the relationship between personal empowerment and social change.ENGL-103
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
A study of grammar, composition, and style. A vigorous program of essay-writing plus a variety of writing assignments or exercises dealing with specific problems in essay-writing. Strongly recommended for students who wish to improve their writing skills.SOC-206
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course is an analysis of major social problems in Canadian society, their nature, development, and social causes. The course examines the impact of problems such as poverty, crime/criminality, drug addition, and prejudice/discrimination and inequality, with a particular focus on Indigenous, racial/ethnic, and other marginalized groups.SOC-230
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course provides an introduction to the contemporary debates within the sociology of family. The course explores the interaction and conflicts between our intimate lives as family members and the economic, political, legal, and cultural changes that define the beliefs and issues surrounding the institution of family. Utilizing current sociological theory and analyses, the course critically examines the history of the western family, the ideology of the family, gender ideology, and social policies and practices affecting Canadian families. The course explores central issues faced by families today, including dating, mating and marriage, the contradictions between romantic love and social constructions of the ideal family, the gendered division of labour, parenting, divorce, poverty, alternative family forms, and violence within intimate relationships. Critical analysis of debates surrounding single parent families, same-sex marriages, and recent trends in reproductive science will form an additional aspect of the coursework.FASD-301
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Mackenzie, Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
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Description
This course is designed to provide a solid understanding of the unique complexities of FASD for students in the social service, education, justice and health related disciplines. This knowledge will add depth to their understanding of individuals/families and communities who access services in their chosen field. It begins with a comprehensive examination of the underlying causes of alcohol use during preganancy, the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure and the resulting disabilities known as FASD. The contenct provides information needed for students to critically analyze and evaluate practice. Students will be required to demonstrate how the related disabilities can affect individuals' life outcomes. The prevalence and impact of FASD make this disorder an important area of studey for those in human service professions. Students will explore effective strategies for prevention and intervention at the family, community and professional levels. Their gained knowledge can be integrated into their practice once in the field.Required SSWK
SSWK-142
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
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Description
This course assists students in developing and refining basic helping skills through the use of lectures and experiential role plays, which integrate theory into practice. Lectures will primarily focus on theory, terminology, and the core skills of the helping activity. Participation in the lab portion of this course is expected and enhances the integration of counselling theories and strategies into direct practice. Role play activities allow students to practice skills and develop confidence.SSWK-145
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Course material provides an overview of communication theories as well as a practical basis for learning interpersonal skills. This includes discussions of how self-concept, perceptual process, language, and non-verbal behaviour influence communication. This course provides opportunities to increase selfawareness selfawareness and to improve and develop effective interpersonal communication skills. This course will also provide the student with the opportunity to develop confidence in public speaking.SSWK-151
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course provides a basic introduction to social welfare policy in Canada, its historical development, and its role within the political and economic context of Canadian society. A major emphasis is placed on a review of the values and ideology implicit in various types of social welfare policy. Students will critically analyze the effect of social welfare policies on client populations and upon themselves as social service workers. Class discussions focus on northern issues.SSWK-171
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Students are introduced to the practice of social service, its values, knowledge, and skill foundations. The principles and contributions of mutual aid, self-help, and natural helping networks are examined. The relationship between social service practice and the communities and organizations in which it takes place is a focus of discussion. Other discussion topics include current trends in the field of paraprofessional services, ethics, and the basic structure and function of social service agencies.SSWK-241
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel, Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Mackenzie |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course provides students with a foundational understanding of group work theory and practice. The basic assumption is that there is a significant correlation between social functioning and group experience. Topics of study include group dynamics, leadership styles and skills, group development, cultural and ethical issues in group work. This course includes a laboratory experience in which students will learn and practice group work skills. A variety of activities will take place that will help to demonstrate the concepts and skills.Required practicum
SSWK-195
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course is designed to introduce first year students to the purpose and structure of the SSWK fieldwork experience referred to as "practicum." Students are introduced to the concept of experiential learning and its value in the learning process. Students and faculty explore the idea of praxis-the linkage of theory, skills, and practice-and discuss ways of achieving this through the practicum. They examine articles that explore various aspects of social service practice. Students are introduced to a range of social service agencies in the community and will then be interviewed for a practicum placement in SSWK 186 or SSWK 196.Required practicum choice
SSWK-186
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Students will perform activities at an Aboriginal social service agency site two days a week throughout the semester where they will construct a learning contract and receive guidance and supervision from an agency-based field supervisor. The seminar is designed to help students reflect on experiential learning, problem-solve issues and concerns that arise in the practical environment, and link theoretical components of their courses to actual practicum events in an Aboriginal social services environment. Students will continue the journal writing and peer feedback practices discussed in SSWK 195. Cannot also hold credit for: SSWK 196.SSWK-196
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Mackenzie |
| Requisites |
|
Description
Students will perform activities at a social service agency site two days a week throughout the semester where they will construct a learning contract and receive guidance and supervision from an agency-based field supervisor. The seminar is designed to help students reflect on experiential learning, problem-solve issues and concerns that arise in the practical environment, and link theoretical components of their courses to actual practicum events. Students will continue the journal writing and peer feedback practices discussed in SSWK 195. Cannot also hold credit for: SSWK 186Required course from list or SSWK elective
PHIL-100
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
PHIL 100 is designed to introduce students to philosophy as a study discipline. Core questions will be asked: Is there a God? What is morality? How important is knowledge to truth? Are humans capable of knowing everything? Are humans mere material beings, or is there a non-material aspect to human life? What is justice? What is a civil society? What is politics? Students will be introduced to some of the best minds who have offered insight and understanding on these issues. PHIL 100 will arouse interest in students for this field of study, its benefits to learning, and career development.ANTH-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | All Terms, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Mackenzie |
| Requisites |
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Description
Cultural anthropologists examine social patterns and practices across cultures, with a special interest in how people live in particular places and create meaning. The goal of this course is to examine the diversity of existing human cultures as well as provide students with a basic understanding of the fundamental concepts used by cultural anthropologists. Topics include research methods, economic systems, marriage, kinship, political systems, expressive culture, religion, illness, and gender. Examples will be drawn from a variety of Indigenous cultures.PHIL-101
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Morality and ethics are framed socially and culturally in every human society, and are thus dependent on local, social, and historical contexts. This course surveys the development of moral philosophy in the Western tradition. Students will review major thinkers and texts, identify the values and ideas that have shaped Western philosophical thought since 600 BC, and critically examine those contributions and positions in relation to the present through the lens of key moral questions.PHIL-102
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
This course introduces the ideals of Reason, Truth, and Knowledge in Western philosophy. Students will confront the fundamental possibility of knowledge by addressing questions such as: What distinguishes knowledge from opinion? Does evidence have to convince to constitute proof? Is truth dependent on agreement? Can perception show us how the world really is or merely how it appears to us? Should we believe only what there is sufficient evidence to support? How is faith related to knowledge and belief?PSYC-102
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel |
| Requisites |
|
Description
This course is a continuation of PSYC 101. Topics include developmental psychology, intelligence and intelligence testing, personality and personality assessment, motivation, emotion, stress and health, social psychology, an introduction to psychological disorders and their treatment.CRIM-103
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This introductory course explores the structure and operation, and the legal and social organization of the Canadian Criminal justice system. The accused is followed from initial contact with the police to a final disposition on the street, at court, or in the correctional system. The rights and responsibilities, patterns of contact and conflict, and discretionary practices of all participants in the proceedings are examined in terms of their fairness and effectiveness.SSWK-225
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Occasionally |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course provides an understanding of the implications of disabilities on people's lives from a social context. Students will examine attitude, values and predominant views of disability in Canadian culture. A focus of this course is on an empowerment approach to supporting people with disabilities.SSWK-232
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course explores the various dimensions of death, loss, and bereavement. Various topics that will be explored are: dynamics of mourning, children and death, abnormal versus normal grief, grief and the family, suicide, last rites, funerals, etc. As a result of this course, students will learn to face and accept loss as a natural part of life and thereby learn how to be more supportive and helpful in encountering loss situations in both professional and personal spheres.SSWK-255
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
Students become acquainted with the values, assumptions, and issues underlying various approaches to helping. An emphasis is placed upon students developing a better understanding of their own personal helper values, assumptions regarding human behaviour, and styles of helping. The various ethical issues relating to being a helper are also examined.SSWK-257
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Occasionally |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course explores the values, attitudes, and beliefs of the worker, and the knowledge and skills required to support and enhance wellness with individuals in the community who have mental illness. The focus is on policies and practices that are relevant to northern British Columbia, including work with individuals of First Nations descent. Students have opportunities to explore the nature of mental illness. Students learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment of mental illness. Community resources and an overview of mental health services will be discussed. This student critically appraises the major existing theories.SSWK-263
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George, Quesnel |
Description
This course gives students a basic introduction to the issue of chemical dependency. An emphasis is placed on understanding theories used to explain the etiology of chemical dependency and various patterns of drug use and their impact on various groups in society. In addition, students will learn about the psycho-social impact of drug use on individuals and families, and students will learn basic skills of assessment and intervention with this population. Professional and ethical issues in working with the chemically dependent will be examined as well.SSWK-265
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Spring Only, Every Year |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
This course is designed to examine policy, legislation and standards with specific application to child and youth care services in British Columbia. It examines systems of practice that include strengths-based, feminist and structural models. Particular focus is placed on Aboriginal colonization and assimilation within Canadian society and the continued over-representation of First Nation children in government care. Emphasis is placed on the essential need of permanency planning for children in permanent care of the system.SSWK-282
Typical Offerings
| Timing | Fall/Spring Only, Occasionally |
|---|---|
| Locations | Prince George |
Description
This course surveys the various aspects of social service work with children. The three main theoretical models of child helping-the Adlerian model, behaviour modification, and general systems theory-will be examined in detail. Students learn how to apply these techniques in response to common behavioural problems in a variety of settings including the family, the community, and the school.SSWK elective
Univeristy Transfer electives
Entry Requirements
Entry Requirements
Fall 2027 Intake and Onwards
For applications to the Fall 2027 intake (September start), you must meet the following requirements:
Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our options.
Once accepted into the program, the student must complete a criminal record search. A search which identifies relevant criminal convictions may prevent them from registering for practicum. Practicum is required for graduation.
It is recommended that all successful candidates have current:
- TB testing and a complete immunization regime as per Northern Health recommendations for health and social service worker students.
- Emergency level first aid
- FoodSafe certification
- Therapeutic Crisis Intervention certification
- Non-violent Crisis Intervention certification
- Valid class 5 driver’s license
These recommendations are considered assets for employment in the Social Service Worker field. All costs associated with certifications, courses and/or documentation requirements are the student’s responsibility.
Limited admission
If there is room in the program, the student will be accepted once they have met all the admission requirements. This is called “first qualified, first accepted.” If the student qualifies after the program is full, they will be put on a wait list.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Based on skills and knowledge acquired through life and/or work experience, students may be able to obtain course credits in the Social Services Worker Program. Through an assessment process, students applying for PLAR credit will document and demonstrate their capabilities based on identified competencies and the learning objectives of the SSWK course for which they seek credit.
This option applies to SSWK 195 and SSWK 186/196, the first-year practicum components of the program. To explore this option, please see a CNC Academic Advisor for assistance with initiating a Prior Learning Assessment application. Applications will be considered per institutional policy.
For more information, please contact or your local campus for more details.
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Invest in your future
The estimated cost for this program is $9131.79.These costs are an estimate. Student fees vary by campus. Check the for more details.
Books for this program can be purchased from the bookstore.
Paying for college
We're here to help. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries through CNC. We can also help you find loans and other funding.
Salaries and employment
Looking for a job? Check the student employment opportunities board.
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Highlights
92%
Currently Employed
For graduates of the Social Service Worker UT Diploma (BC Student Outcomes).
$68,438
Median Annual Earnings
For Social Worker positions
