Durham College Canada

Developmental Services Worker

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Semesters
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Diploma
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Developmental Services Worker Undergraduate Diploma at Durham College is designed for individuals passionate about supporting people with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives. You will explore core values such as social justice, empowerment, and dignity, learning to develop and implement effective support plans that foster self-determination and community participation. This program equips you with the essential skills to work with children and adults, promote healthy lifestyles, and build natural connections within communities. If you are driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, this diploma offers a strong foundation in developmental services.

You will study this program full-time on campus over four semesters, engaging in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. Throughout your studies, you will participate in Field Placements, gaining invaluable hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced professionals. The syllabus includes modules such as Developmental Disabilities, Behavioural Support, and Person-Centered Planning, preparing you for diverse roles. Upon graduation, you will be ready to pursue a rewarding career as a Developmental Services Worker, advocating for and supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in various settings.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals with developmental disabilities. Through a series of semesters, students will explore foundational concepts in communication, psychology, and health, alongside specialized topics such as developmental disabilities, behavioural support, and person-centred planning. The curriculum also includes essential field placements and seminars to provide practical experience in the developmental services sector.

1 Semester 1

Communication Foundations
Developmental Disabilities I
Health & Well Being
Developmental Psychology
Introduction to Development Services
Field Placement Prep
General Education Elective
General Elective Credit

2 Semester 2

Academic Writing for Success Strategies
Behavioural Support I
Developmental Disabilities II
Person Centered Planning
Pharmacology Theory
Field Placement I & Seminar
Indigenous Elective

3 Semester 3

Behavioural Support II
Personal Support Skills
Health and Well Being 2
Field Placement II

4 Semester 4

Building Community
Professional Communication
Family & Social Systems
Field Placement III

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 11,184.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 11,184.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 22,368.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 411.00 - USD 1,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,167.00 - USD 3,901.00
Transport USD 781.00 - USD 1,214.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,041.00 - USD 1,561.00
Estimated Total USD 3,989.00 - USD 6,676.00

Living cost estimates are based on Oshawa Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningCloud Computing & InfrastructureCybersecurityData Science & AnalyticsHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsNursing & Allied Health

Top Employers Hiring for this course

GE HealthCare

Headwaters Health Care Centre

Lakeridge Health

Why Study Developmental Services Worker at Durham College

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Durham College in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Developmental Services Worker at Durham College

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include Developmental Services Worker, Community Support Worker, and Family Support Worker.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on developing support plans and working with students with autism. Students will also learn about family support and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Developmental Services Worker program has an intake in September. This is when new students can begin their studies to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
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