Fanshawe College Canada

Developmental Services Worker

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Diploma
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Developmental Services Worker program at Fanshawe College is a two-year undergraduate diploma designed for individuals passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities. You will explore crucial areas such as developmental psychology, person-directed plans, and positive behaviour interventions, gaining a comprehensive understanding of support strategies. This program is ideal for aspiring practitioners committed to promoting mental and physical health, fostering independence, and developing essential interpersonal and interprofessional skills within the social services sector.

You will engage in a full-time, on-campus learning experience over two years, including extensive practical application through two field placements. This hands-on approach allows you to work alongside experienced professionals and apply your learning in real-world settings, covering topics from health and wellness to professional practice and augmentative communication. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue rewarding careers as direct support professionals or educational assistants, equipped with the specialised knowledge and practical skills demanded by the developmental services field.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education for aspiring Developmental Services Workers. Students will gain foundational knowledge in developmental disabilities, psychology, and philosophy of support, alongside essential communication and professionalism skills. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics including person-directed plans, positive behaviour interventions, pharmacology, and specialized areas like abnormal psychology and augmentative communication, culminating in practical field placements.

1 LEVEL 1

Developmental Disabilities 2 Mandatory
Developmental Psychology Mandatory
Reason & Writing 1 for Community Studies Mandatory
Developmental Disabilities 1 Mandatory
Philosophy of Support Mandatory
Health & Wellness 1 Mandatory
Professionalism 1 Mandatory
Teaching & Learning in Dev Services 1 Mandatory

2 LEVEL 2

Communications for Community Studies Mandatory
Health & Wellness 2 Mandatory
Professionalism 2 Mandatory
Person-Directed Plans Mandatory
Positive Behaviour Interventions 1 Mandatory
Teaching & Learning Dev Services 2 Mandatory
Pharmacology in DSW Mandatory

3 LEVEL 3

Health & Wellness 3 Mandatory
Field Placement 1 Mandatory
Professionalism 3 Mandatory
Abnormal Psychology/Dual Diagnosis Mandatory
Abuse Mandatory

4 LEVEL 4

Health & Wellness 4 Mandatory
Community Building Mandatory
Field Placement 2 Mandatory
Augmentative Communication Mandatory
Social Services Mandatory
Positive Behaviour Interventions 2 Mandatory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,026.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,026.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,052.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 611.00 - USD 870.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationClinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Autism In Mind

Geneva Centre for Autism

Hamilton Health Sciences

LifeMark Health Group

London Health Sciences Centre

Nestlé Health Science

St. Joseph's Health Care London

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton

Why Study Developmental Services Worker at Fanshawe College

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

Fanshawe College typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Fanshawe 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 Fanshawe 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. On-campus work has no hour limits and requires no separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Students must meet specific English language requirements, including scores from tests like Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 105 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles for graduates include direct support professional, educational assistant, personal support worker, and community support worker.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Developmental Services Worker program is a two-year diploma focused on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Key subjects include mental health promotion and fostering independence through positive behavior support.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Developmental Services Worker program accepts new students in January, May, and September. Ensure you apply before these intake months to secure your spot.
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