Social Service Worker – Immigrants and Refugees (Accelerated)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Postgraduate Certificate
Closing soon May 2027

Course Overview

The Seneca College Social Service Worker – Immigrants and Refugees (Accelerated) Postgraduate Certificate is designed for individuals seeking to build on existing credentials and make a significant impact in supporting newcomers. In Canada's dynamic landscape of immigrant and refugee reception, this program addresses the critical need for skilled professionals equipped with an anti-oppressive and social justice framework. You will explore pre-migration conditions, settlement processes, and the complexities of integration, gaining essential knowledge to empower individuals and families navigating these transitions. This accelerated postgraduate certificate is ideal for those committed to promoting equity and human dignity within social service settings.

This full-time, on-campus program is delivered over one year, including an intensive summer semester followed by a traditional academic year. You will engage in a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, focusing on areas such as interviewing skills, service coordination, advocacy, and fundraising. Distinctive features include field seminars and extensive field placements, where you will work alongside experienced professionals to develop your practice. You will graduate with the practical skills and ethical grounding necessary for roles in settlement counselling, case management, and community development, prepared to advocate for and support immigrant and refugee populations effectively.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This accelerated program equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to support immigrants and refugees. You will explore anti-oppressive practice, interviewing techniques, and the legal and ethical frameworks governing settlement services. The curriculum also covers resilience, counseling, advocacy, and non-profit management, culminating in extensive field placements to gain practical experience in the immigrant and refugee service sector.

1 Semester 1

Anti-Oppressive Practice
Interviewing Skills and Principles
Introduction to Immigrant and Refugee Policies
Field Seminar: Laws, Principles, and Ethics
Introduction to Settlement Sectors

2 Semester 2

Resiliency through the Life Span
Service Coordination and Advocacy
Supportive Counselling
Integrative Field Work Seminar
Field Placement
Non-Profit Funding and Grant Writing

3 Semester 3

Group Dynamics
Immigrant Families and Systemic Violence
Migration and Trauma
Integrative Field Work Seminar
Field Placement

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,806.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 18,806.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 986.00 - USD 1,307.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,601.00 - USD 4,334.00
Transport USD 1,110.00 - USD 1,387.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,301.00 - USD 1,734.00
Estimated Total USD 5,012.00 - USD 7,455.00

Living cost estimates are based on Seneca York Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Brokerage & Trading & SecuritiesClinical & Medical ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCustoms, Trade & ComplianceEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducational Support ServicesFleet Management & OperationsHealthcare Administration & ManagementTransport Engineering & InfrastructureUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

City of Toronto

Scotiabank

Sunnybrook

TD Bank

University of Toronto

Why Study Social Service Worker – Immigrants and Refugees (Accelerated) at Seneca Polytechnic

What makes this program stand out

May 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in May 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 – Immigrants and Refugees (Accelerated) at Seneca Polytechnic

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during terms and unlimited hours on campus. During breaks, they can work unlimited hours off-campus.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English requirements, students can take various tests. For instance, a Duolingo overall score of 120 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Settlement Workers, Refugee Advocates, Community Program Coordinators, or Social Service Case Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The SSIA program is the first of its kind in Ontario, offering an in-depth understanding of the evolving landscape of newcomer reception and support in Canada. This one-year accelerated option allows you to build on your current credentials, upgrading your education or choosing a career specialization. This program consists of a seven-week summer semester starting in early May, followed by a regular academic year starting the day after Labour Day and concluding in mid-April.

Learning

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The SSIA program has an intake month in May. You'll begin your studies with a seven-week summer semester, followed by the academic year starting in September.
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