Build the knowledge that matters in community and social services.
Recognized certificates in shelter support, crisis intervention, case management, and community services. 100% online. Start this week.
7 certificates. One field that actually matters.
Whether you're entering social services for the first time, building on experience you already have, or still figuring out if this is the right field — start with the quiz below to get a personalized recommendation, or scroll down to browse all programs and build your own pathway.
Earn a Verifiable Digital Certificate:
Note: All certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of York College of Applied Studies.
Receive your official digital credential
When you complete the program, you'll receive a secure, verifiable digital certificate issued by York College of Applied Studies. Your credential can be downloaded for your records, shared directly with employers, and added to your LinkedIn and other professional profiles to showcase your achievement.
What students are saying
From verified course reviews
"What I like most about this course is the fact that it is online. I was able to work at my own pace. The readings were very beneficial — it is like I was gaining hands-on experience."
"What I liked most about this course was learning practical skills that I can use to support individuals in real-life situations. It helped me build confidence in working with people."
"This course has significantly enhanced my understanding of effective client interactions. It provided me with valuable insights into de-escalating conflicts and offering genuine assistance."
Common questions
Funding & Financial Support
ESDC-Certified Institution · Tuition eligible for federal tax credits
Better Jobs Ontario (formerly Second Career) helps unemployed and low-income Ontarians retrain for in-demand careers. As of January 2026:
- Up to $28,000 for training under 52 weeks (including micro-credentials and certificates)
- Up to $35,000 for 1–2 year programs
- Covers tuition, books, transportation, living allowance, and dependent care
You may qualify if you’ve been laid off, unemployed for 12+ weeks, or are receiving EI, Ontario Works, or ODSP. Eligibility now also includes gig workers, newcomers, and self-employed individuals. All York College programs fall within the eligible duration.
Important: You must be approved through an Employment Ontario service provider before starting your training. Learn more →
You still have options:
- Employer sponsorship — many employers cover tuition as professional development
- Canada Training Credit — refundable federal tax credit for Canadians 26–65 with earned income (eligible for our short certificates and micro-credentials)
- Tuition Tax Credit — claimable through T2202 for our vocational diploma programs
- Flexible payment plans — start now with a small initial payment
Consult a tax advisor or visit canada.ca for guidance on tax credit eligibility.
Yes — for our vocational diploma programs. You’ll receive your T2202 by the end of February following the tax year, which can be used to claim the federal Tuition Tax Credit.
For our short certificate courses and micro-credentials, T2202 forms are not issued due to our self-paced format, but tuition may still qualify for the Canada Training Credit. Please consult a tax advisor or visit canada.ca for guidance.
York College of Applied Studies is registered under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, and is certified by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
We can help you find the right path.
Tell us about your experience and interests — we'll recommend a starting point. No pressure, no obligation.
“It provided practical knowledge and real-life scenarios that helped me understand the role of a Shelter Support Worker.”
— Minyahil A., Shelter Support Worker ’26
