Program Description This two–year Ontario College diploma program is designed to provide the specialized skills required for professionals who make a difference every day in the developmental services sector. This program has a specific focus related to supporting people with various intellectual disabilities, such as Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Autism, and neurocognitive disorders.
Graduates will have the knowledge, skills and attitudes that include - and exceed - compassionate caring to support the empowerment of people with developmental disabilities, while promoting social inclusion and helping people reach their goals and accomplish their dreams. Developmental Services Workers maintain and promote their professional values such as social justice, empowerment, dignity, self-worth, the importance of healthy human relationships, and integrity.
Students in this program also develop an understanding of the past, present and future of developmental services in Ontario and how it impacts the lives of individuals and families. Students begin to specialize in person-centered, strength-based assessments and develop strategies for individuals, their families, and community inclusion through various community-based projects and field placements.
Curriculum and field placements align with and exceed pending accreditation and industry standards for the developmental services sector. Graduates are able to become members of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD) and the Developmental Services Special Interest Group (DSSIG). OADD is a professional organization for people working and studying in the field of developmental disabilities throughout Ontario.
