Durham College Canada

Personal Support Worker

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

Course Overview

The Personal Support Worker certificate at Durham College is designed for those passionate about providing essential, compassionate care to individuals across various institutional and community settings. You will develop the foundational skills needed to support clients with daily living activities, enhancing their quality of life. This program addresses the growing need for skilled support workers who can offer client-centred care, focusing on both physical and mental well-being. If you are looking for a direct path to a rewarding career in healthcare, this certificate is your starting point.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over two semesters, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage in hands-on learning through dedicated practice labs and gain invaluable real-world experience through three distinct practicum placements. The curriculum covers vital areas such as interpersonal communication, health challenges, pharmacology, and mental health support. Upon successful completion, you will be prepared to enter the workforce as a competent Personal Support Worker, ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to provide compassionate and effective care as a Personal Support Worker. The curriculum covers foundational concepts in health promotion, hospice palliative care, and understanding general body systems, alongside specialized modules on mental health challenges and pharmacology relevant to the role. Practical application is emphasized through dedicated lab sessions and extensive practicum experiences, preparing graduates for professional practice in diverse healthcare settings.

1 Semester 1

Interpersonal communication in health promotion
Fundamentals of hospice palliative care
Health challenges and general body systems
PSW foundations
Personal support worker practice lab
Professional practice preparation
Mental health challenges

2 Semester 2

Pharmacology for PSWs
Practicum 1
Practicum 2
Practicum 3

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

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

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

Blockchain & Emerging TechnologiesClinical & Medical ServicesCybersecurityData Science & AnalyticsHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHealthcare Administration & ManagementIT Support & Systems AdministrationMedical Research & Clinical TrialsQuality Assurance & TestingRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

GE HealthCare

Headwaters Health Care Centre

Lakeridge Health

Why Study Personal Support Worker at Durham College

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

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 Personal Support 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. On-campus work has no hour restrictions.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Personal Support Worker, Home Care Aide, Nursing Assistant, or Community Care Worker.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on essential skills like personal hygiene and mobility assistance. Students learn to support clients with daily living activities and gain hands-on experience through practicums.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Personal Support Worker program has intakes in January and May each year. Be sure to check the specific dates for application deadlines.
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