Admissions
- How many people usually apply for these programs?
- How many students are admitted into the program each intake?
- How are students usually selected for the program?
- Should I apply for the program if I do not have all the prerequisites?
- How can I prepare for the interview?
- When are interviews held for entry to the program?
- If I don’t get accepted into the program this year, can I apply again next year?
- If I am not admitted into the program this year, can I take any classes that will give me credit in the program?
- What can I do to increase my chances of getting into this program?
- When will I hear if I have been accepted?
General
- What are the costs of the SCSW program?
- Does this program qualify for a student loan?
- Does this program ladder into or from any other University or College programs?
Format
- What is a typical weekly schedule?
- How much homework should I expect if I am a full time student?
- Can I access this program on a part-time basis?
- Does this program offer Prior Learning Assessment?
- Is field work, practicum, internship, or coop available/required in this program?
Employment Outcomes
- What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?
- Is further training necessary in order for me to enter the job market?
- What are the starting wages a graduate could expect?
- Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field? If so, where would this be?
- On average, what percentage of the class successfully complete the program?
- On average, what percentage of the graduates get employment in the field?
Admissions
1. How many people usually apply for these programs?
There is a solid demand for this program. We anticipate approximately 50-60 applicants to the program each year.
2. How many students are admitted into the program each intake?
The number of students admitted each year varies depending on the number of part-time students. However the average size of the yearly intake is approximately 34 students.
3. How are students usually selected for the program?
Students are selected based on the status of their academic record, letters of reference, writing skills, extent of their paid and/or volunteer experience, and their performance in a group interview process.
4. Should I apply for the program if I do not have all the prerequisites?
The only prerequisite is English 12 with a min. C grade, or equivalent. If you do not meet this prerequisite you may write the Language Proficiency Index to qualify or enroll in our Adult Basic Education program to upgrade your English skills. Contact the Advising Centre for details on these upgrading options.
5. How can I prepare for the interview?
The interview is intended as an opportunity for faculty to be introduced to students and for students to become familiarized with the program. Be on time and ready to present yourself in a professional manner.
6. When are interviews held for entry to the program?
Typically in late April and early May. Depending on the number of applicants and their level of past academic achievement and experience, interviews may not be utilized in our selection process.
7. If I don’t get accepted into the program this year, can I apply again next year?
Yes, students can apply the next year.
8. If I am not admitted into the program this year, can I take any classes that will give me credit in the program?
Yes, students could take the English and elective requirements before they’re accepted into the program. In addition, students can enroll in any of the SCSW courses (except for practicums) if seats are available.
9. What can I do to increase my chances of getting into this program?
Students should ensure that their application for admission is complete and current, submitted on time, and be prepared and on time for the interview. Volunteer experience in the field is an asset.
10. When will I hear if I have been accepted?
All interviewed applicants will be informed of their admission status within a few weeks after the interview process is complete.
General
1. What are the costs of the SCSW program?
Information regarding tuition costs is available in the Vancouver Island University calendar. Other costs such as texts and student materials are estimated at $100 - $150 per course.
2. Does this program qualify for a student loan?
Yes. Students taking the program can apply for a student loan. See Financial Aid and Awards for details.
3. Does this program ladder into or from any other University or College programs?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the program will receive a Vancouver Island University certificate. This certificate has the potential to ladder into the Child and Youth Care diploma, the Child and Youth Care degree and/or the Social Service Worker diploma, the Disabilities Studies diploma, as well as a general Bachelor of Arts degree at VIU. If you have credits from another university or college program, applicable Human Services courses may be recognized towards this certificate. Please contact the program chair for more information.
Format
1. What is a typical weekly schedule?
The majority of classes are offered in the evening from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, however some are offered on-line or through a weekend institute format. The two practica courses typically occur during daytime hours. Your weekly schedule will vary depending on which courses are offered and which ones you enroll in.
2. How much homework should I expect if I am a full time student?
Students can expect 4 – 6 hours per course per week.
3. Can I access this program on a part-time basis?
Yes, this program is offered on a part-time basis with a completion requirement within five years.
4. Does this program offer Prior Learning Assessment?
Yes, a Prior Learning Assessment is only available to students admitted into the program. Once admitted, a student who thinks they may qualify for a Prior Learning Assessment credit should make an appointment with the SCSW Chair.
5. Is field work, practicum, internship, or coop available/required in this program?
Yes, students will have two practicum placements during their program (135 hours each). One placement is in the community and the other is in a school setting.
Employment Outcomes
1. What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?
The SCSW certificate will prepare you for employment as a Special Education Assistant in the school system, and as a Support Worker in a variety of community settings working with people who have a range of disabilities.
2. Is further training necessary in order for me to enter the job market?
Some further training may be required to enter the job market, for example first aid, and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) . Other specialized skills and knowledge would certainly be an asset (i.e., Autism-specific training, Braille, Sign Language Interpreter training, Class IV Drivers License).
3. What are the starting wages a graduate could expect?
The starting wages are approximately $20-$22 an hour for an Educational Assistant. Wages are approximately $15 to $22 per hour for Community Support Workers.
4. Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field? If so, where would this be?
It is likely that graduates will find work in the mid-island region. However, this certification is recognized throughout British Columbia.
5. On average, what percentage of the class successfully complete the program?
This Program has a very low dropout rate. Students may take the program on a part-time basis and are allowed up to five years to complete the requirements.
6. On average, what percentage of the graduates get employment in the field?
Most graduates who have completed the program in the last three years have found employment in the field, unless they chose to go on to further studies.