School and Community Support Worker (SCSW)
Next intake September 2011*NEW!Accessible Program Delivery
The School and Community Support Worker Program (SCSW) includes both theoretical and practical applications for working with people who have disabilities, across the lifespan. The core and specialty courses provide students with the skills and knowledge to work in entry level positions in community settings with people who have disabilities, and as educational assistants in the school system.
The School and Community Support Worker Program provides a first year of study in the Disability Studies Diploma. Students who successfully complete 36 SCSW credits receive a Vancouver Island University - School and Community Support Worker Certificate. Students may then apply to the Disability Studies diploma to complete a second level of study. Successful students graduate with the Vancouver Island University Disability Studies Diploma. The diploma ladders into the Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation at the University of Calgary.
Acceptance into the program does not mean that students will be placed into a practicum. Students will be individually assessed as to their readiness for the practica in terms of skills, knowledge and personal suitability. Placement into a practicum will be at the discretion of the program Coordinator.
Accessible Program Delivery
The 12 SCSW courses will be offered in a new delivery format that includes attending face to face institutes in Powell River for 3 days, twice a semester and attending sessions in a Virtual classroom several times a week. Some courses will be fully on line. This exciting new program delivery model makes the certificate accessible to:
- students who have significant family responsibilities;
- students living outside the geographic area; and
- students who are working.
Transfer Credit (from other institutions)
Vancouver Island University recognizes the academic knowledge and achievement of students who have undertaken post–secondary studies at other colleges, institutes, or universities. Credit is assigned on the basis of an official transcript, course outlines, and other supporting documentation. Transfer students must meet all of Vancouver Island University's admission requirements.
A Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) also offers students with past work experience or training the opportunity to receive full or partial credit for many courses.
Graduation Requirements
To be eligible for a School and Community Support Worker Certificate, students must:
- Have successfully completed all of the required program courses and maintained a “C” average in all courses required for the credential
- Have completed Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training (HHNC 001)
- Achieve a passing grade in the practicum courses
- Complete all requirements within 5 years