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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

Social Service Worker Certificate

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Program Requirements

The Social Service Worker certificate is equivalent to the first year of the campus and OL Human Service diploma. All 30 credits from this program ladder into the Human Service diploma.

Professional Development

Not a program student? You can register in all Social Work (SOCW) and Human Services (HUMS) courses except HUMS 1601, Human Service Field Practicum.

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 or equivalent or mature student status
  • English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% (or equivalent)
  • Two letters of reference

Admitted Students

If you are admitted to the program, you must complete a Consent to a Criminal Record Check before you start a practicum placement.

Residency Requirements

6 or more TRU credits (online or on-campus)

Certificate Requirements

30 credits total, with a GPA of 2.00 for each course required for completion of this credential, as follows:

Core Knowledge Requirements (27 credits)

  • ENGL 1101: Introduction to University Writing
  • HUMS 1541: Interpersonal Communications and Helping Relationships
  • HUMS 1561: Introduction to the Family in Human Service Practice
  • HUMS 1581: Introduction to Professional Human Service Practice
  • HUMS 1771: Introduction to Human Service Practice with Indigenous Communities
  • HUMS 2231: Introduction to Working with People who use Substances
  • CYCA 2001: Introduction to Professional Foundations of Child and Youth Care
  • Six credits of Arts courses

Practicum (3 credits)

  • HUMS 1601, Human Service Field Education - Year One

The practicum is 190 hours minimum. It is usually offered part-time, although may be arranged in alternate formats. Practicums are held during three annual placement periods (fall, winter, and summer) and have required pre-requisites and concrete document submission deadlines.

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