Social Service Worker – Gerontology

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 Social Service Worker – Gerontology undergraduate diploma at Seneca College is designed for aspiring professionals passionate about supporting older adults and enhancing their quality of life. As Canada's population ages, the demand for skilled social service workers specializing in gerontology is rapidly increasing, presenting a wealth of career opportunities. This program equips you with the essential knowledge, professional values, and practical skills needed to assist seniors in maintaining independence and well-being, focusing on a holistic, strength-based approach and current best practices in elder care.

You will study this program full-time on campus over two years, engaging with a curriculum that covers anti-oppressive practice, sociology, and specific gerontological topics. Your learning experience will include a significant 220-hour field placement, allowing you to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting and develop practical skills under supervision. You will also participate in seminars focused on fieldwork and therapeutic program planning. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared to enter the workforce and are eligible to apply for registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program prepares students for a career as a Social Service Worker specializing in gerontology. Through a combination of foundational communication and sociology courses, students will develop essential interpersonal skills. The curriculum then focuses on the unique needs of older adults, covering topics such as introduction to aging, interviewing and assessing older adults, and therapeutic program planning. Practical experience is integrated through field work seminars and placements within the gerontology sector, including exposure to the retirement home industry.

1 Semester 1

Communicating Across Contexts
Introduction to Aging
Gerontology Field Work Seminar
Sociology: A Practical Approach 1
Interpersonal Communications
Anti Oppressive Practice

2 Semester 2

Gerontological Group and Activation Techniques
Interviewing and Assessing Older Adults
The Retirement Home Industry - Overview and Skills
Integrative Field Work Seminar
Gerontology Field Work
Therapeutic Program Planning

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,872.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,872.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 25,744.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 1,734.00 - USD 3,467.00
Transport USD 521.00 - USD 867.00
Utilities & Bills USD 867.00 - USD 1,301.00
Estimated Total USD 3,122.00 - USD 5,635.00

Living cost estimates are based on King Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

79%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHome Health & Long‑Term CareMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & PhysiotherapyVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Health Canada

Sunnybrook

University Health Network

Why Study Social Service Worker – Gerontology at Seneca Polytechnic

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

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

Life at Seneca Polytechnic 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 Social Service Worker – Gerontology at Seneca Polytechnic

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 is also permitted without a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enter the program, you need to meet specific English proficiency scores. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with set minimum scores across various components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue jobs such as Social Service Worker, Gerontology Specialist, Community Support Worker, or Case Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

Statistics Canada reports that people over the age of 65 account for nearly 20 percent of the total population. This has created a demand for trained professionals to work with older adults. A lot of our students have multiple career opportunities to pursue upon graduation. This two-year diploma program combines the knowledge, professional values and skill sets of social service to assist older adults to maintain independence and a good quality of life. The program focuses on a holistic

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Social Service Worker – Gerontology program has intakes in January and September. You can apply for either term to start your studies.
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