Build a Meaningful Career in Community & Social Services
Earn recognized certificates in Shelter Support, Case Management, and Community Support — all online, all at your pace.
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Video
30 Hours
Materials
382 Pages
Assessments
24 Challenges
Certificates
3 Certificates
Mentorship
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Start exploring your next step today.
Download our Community & Social Services Program Guide
Get full program details, tuition options, skills you’ll build, and career paths — all in one place.
Perfect if you're comparing certificates or want help choosing the right path.
Skills you will build:
Community Support Worker
Duration: 6 weeks (40 hours)
Mentorship: 6 hours (optional)
This certificate program provides an overview of the essential knowledge, skills, and ethical principles required for individuals pursuing a career in community and social services. Students will learn about the Canadian social service system, psychology and sociology foundations, research and ethics, and the complexities of working with at-risk populations, families, and individuals facing mental health challenges.
Skills you will build:
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Community & Social Services
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Introduction to Psychology
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Introduction to Sociology
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Assisting the Family
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Cognitive & Mental Health Issues
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Abuse and Neglect
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Research & Populations at Risk
Shelter Support
Worker
Duration: 6 weeks (40 hours)
Mentorship: 6 hours (optional)
Through interactive case studies, videos, and experiential learning activities, you will build expertise in crisis intervention, communication strategies, and resource navigation. Whether you are starting your journey or looking to enhance your current skills, this program prepares you to create positive change and support vulnerable individuals with confidence.
Skills you will build:
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Crisis intervention & deescalation
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Mental health and addictions Awareness
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Communication & Documentation
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Safety, Ethics & Professional Boundaries
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Case Management & Resource Navigation
Case
Management
Duration: 3 weeks (20 hours)
Mentorship: 3 hours (optional)
This certificate builds the practical skills needed to coordinate services, assess client needs, and plan care in community and social service settings. You’ll explore the principles and ethics of case management while developing real-world competencies in assessment, documentation, and client advocacy. Whether you’re just starting in the field or adding case management skills to your existing role, this program prepares you to work confidently and professionally across diverse client situations.
Skills you will build:
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Foundations of Case Management
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Client Engagement
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Practice, Documentation & Professional Growth
Mentorship That Helps You Prepare for Real Work
Each program includes access to optional mentorship opportunities with professionals already doing the work you’re training for. These online sessions help you learn what employers look for, understand real workplace scenarios, and get practical insight into your new career — all without fixed schedules or mandatory live classes.
Designed for busy adults who need flexibility.
Start your journey toward a meaningful career — on your schedule, at your pace.
Want to get ahead faster? Double your credentials and save up to $1,050.
What Our Students Are Saying:
Real stories from York College graduates building meaningful careers in their communities.
It provided practical knowledge and real-life scenarios that helped me understand the role of a Shelter Support Worker. The lessons on harm reduction, case management, and crisis intervention were especially useful.
— Minhyahil A. (2025)
I learned a lot and enjoyed my studies, It's easy to study and easy to access the links for more details and to understand better the topics better.
— Grace N. (2025)
Overall, this course has not only prepared me for the workforce by providing practical skills and trauma-informed approaches, but it has also increased my commitment to making a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and hardship.
— Ovoke U. (2025)
Why Choose York College?
Here’s why over 1,000 students have trusted York College to start their career in community and social services.
Industry Recognition
York College — Canada’s leader in self-paced online education. Flexible. Accessible. Career-ready.
Flexible Learning
Unlike traditional in-class programs, our programs are delivered 100% online and fully self-paced.
Easy Payment Plans
Affordable tuition with monthly payment plans available for all programs and bundles.
Job Placement Support
95% of graduates find employment within 6 months of completing the program.
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Still deciding?
We know choosing the right program is a big decision. Ask us anything about our Community & Social Services certificates — programs, tuition, funding, or how to get started.
Our team will help you find the path that fits your goals, your schedule, and your budget.
Frequently asked questions:
Are payment plans available?
Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all certificate programs. You can choose your preferred plan during checkout.
Is financial aid accepted?
We accept a variety of funding sources, including Better Jobs Ontario, WSIB, ODSP, Ontario Works, Indigenous Education funding, private student loans, and RESP.
What's included in tuition?
Your tuition includes complete access to all course materials, 26 hours of comprehensive online training, dedicated student support throughout your program, and your official York College certificate upon successful completion.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is designed to be completed in 6 weeks with flexible, self-paced learning. You can move through the material faster or slower depending on your schedule and learning preferences.
When can I start?
You can start anytime! Our 100% online program allows you to begin as soon as you enrol. There are no fixed start dates or classroom schedules to work around.
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