Social Services

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Diploma
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

If you are driven to support individuals and communities, the Social Services Undergraduate Diploma at VIU International offers a direct pathway to a meaningful career. This programme is designed for aspiring professionals who are passionate about social justice, human rights, and fostering inclusive environments. You will explore critical areas such as developmental psychology, trauma and resiliency, and alternative conflict resolution, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the systemic factors influencing their well-being. This diploma equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for impactful work in the social services sector.

This full-time, on-campus programme is delivered over two years, providing an immersive learning experience. Your studies will involve a blend of theoretical coursework and practical application, including a significant practicum component where you will work alongside experienced professionals. You will develop essential interpersonal communication skills and gain exposure to diverse fields through a range of elective courses, including Indigenous perspectives and family studies. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue roles as a human service assistant, community support worker, or advocate, contributing to positive change within society.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a foundational understanding of social services, covering essential areas such as social work practice, developmental psychology, and family studies. Students will explore conflict resolution within criminal justice systems and gain insights into social welfare in Canada. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics including trauma and resiliency, mental health and addictions, and practical social work methods, culminating in a practicum experience.

1 Year 1

Alternative conflict resolution in criminal justice systems
Developmental psychology I
Developmental psychology II
Intro to social work practice
Intro to social welfare in Canada
Family studies
Introduction to group work in child & youth care practice
Interpersonal communication skills
Degree English requirement

2 Year 2

Trauma and resiliency across the lifespan
Social work practice in mental health and addictions
Methods in social work practice
Practicum
Programme Elective slots available

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,757.00

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

Living Costs

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 Nanaimo campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

75%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Blockchain & Emerging TechnologiesClinical & Medical ServicesDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEducational Support ServicesHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHome Health & Long‑Term CareNetworking & Internet ServicesQuality Assurance & TestingRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Fraser Health Authority

GE HealthCare

Island Crisis Care Society

Island Health

Maple Brain Healthcare Inc.

Why Study Social Services at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

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 Vancouver Island University (VIU) 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 Services at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing are required for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include human service assistant, probation officer, rehabilitation counsellor, school counselor, marriage and family therapist.

What will I actually study in this course?

Do you want to make a difference and pursue a career that values diversity, empathy, collaboration and inclusiveness? Social Services professionals dedicate themselves to helping people live better lives and build stronger communities.

The Social Services diploma program at VIU gives you a strong foundation in developmental psychology, adolescent and child development, trauma resiliency and conflict resolution. With a social services diploma you become an advocate for human rights

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Social Services program at VIU has an intake month in September. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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