A Developmental Services Worker providing support to a youth client using a laptop

Embark on a rewarding career helping individuals with disabilities

Developmental Services Worker program

100% graduate satisfaction. Small class sizes. Caring, knowledgeable faculty. Lots of hands-on learning. Active community partners/employers.

This program is moving to Barrie

We’re consolidating our Orillia and Muskoka campuses into Barrie, with all programs and apprenticeship offerings at those campuses planned to transition by fall 2026. This means significant enhancements to the student experience with improved access to services, a wider range of facilities, an expanded employer network, and vibrant campus life.
Program code DSWR
Program Delivery Part-time
Program delivery method(s) Hybrid +
In person
What does this mean?

Program information

Program description

Intake information

Start dateCampus
Fall 2025 Orillia

*Program delivery methods apply to full-time programs only. Please contact recruitment for more information about the delivery method at the campus you’re interested in.

Tuition and fees

Work-integrated learning

What are the admission requirements for the Developmental Services Worker program?

Developmental Services Worker admission requirements

What career paths can I take in developmental services?

Your Developmental Services Worker diploma gives you many career opportunities

Diverse opportunities within the field of developmental services are available in educational, community living, and day services organizations. Job titles include direct support professional, educational assistant, community support worker, community living counsellor, vocational coach, senior’s program counsellor, developmental services advocate, supported independent living counsellor, home care provider, life skills instructor, specialized care provider, employment coach, family support worker, and recreation inclusion counsellor.

Flex MORE. Study Developmental Services Worker part-time

Benefits of studying part-time:

  • Register on a course-by-course basis, paying as you go!
  • MORE choices. We are always adding more flexible delivery programs and courses.

What courses are included in the Developmental Services Worker diploma program?

Course overview

19 Program Courses
2 Communications Courses
3 General Education Courses
2 Field Placements

Program-specific courses

Semester 1 courses are listed below. For a full list of courses in the program including course descriptions, view the Developmental Services Worker program outline.

  • DEVS 1009 – Augmentative Communication
  • DEVS 1010 – Teaching Strategies
  • DEVS 1011 – Person-Directed Planning
  • DEVS 1019 – Introduction to Developmental Services
  • DEVS 1020 – Community Building and Active Living
  • HUMN 1016 – Human Lifespan Development
  • Select 1 course from the communications list during registration.
  • Select 1 course from the general education list during registration.

Your course delivery method(s)

Hybrid

This program has a hybrid delivery method. Some parts are online and other parts are delivered in person. You’ll need to come to campus for part of your program.

In person

This program is delivered fully in person and requires you to attend campus.

Please note, delivery methods are based on planning for the upcoming semester and are subject to change.

A Child and Youth Care practitioner engaging in a discussion with a youth client while taking notes

Child and Youth Care

Practise your skills in our interactive simulation labs. Cutting-edge community placements. Graduate job-ready or pursue further studies.

An Early Childhood Educator (ECE) reading to a group of young children in a daycare centre

Early Childhood Education

Enjoy engaging faculty. Experience exciting, project-based classes. Choose a variety of hands-on experiences in the ECE field.

A group therapy session with the counsellor and five attendees sitting in a circle and chatting

Honours Bachelor of Counselling Psychology

Broad range of counselling theories and techniques. Promote mental health in diverse populations. Strong foundation in research and theory. Field placements to practise skills.

Personal Support Worker in scrubs holding a tablet while relaying medication instructions to an elderly patient in a care home

Personal Support Worker

Develop your skills during placements. Become an integral part of a health-care team. Graduate job-ready or pursue further studies.

Do you have questions about Developmental Services Worker? Contact us!

Thinking about applying to Georgian?

Contact our student recruitment team to explore your study options.

Already applied to Georgian?

Connect with the Office of the Registrar for admissions-related questions.

Are you an international student?

Contact our international recruitment team to learn more about studying at Georgian. 

Ways to connect

Get to Know Georgian

Attend a virtual information session to learn more about Georgian.
Learn more and RSVP

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Book a campus tour.

One-on-one appointments

Book a phone appointment
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