Certificate in Pre-Community Services

As a student in the Pre-Community Services program, you will gain an overview of the helping field, including roles and systemic issues and a theoretical basis through courses in sociology and psychology. You will develop skills necessary for admission to programs in the School of Social and Community Services* at George Brown College and other post-secondary institutions.

You will improve your skills and confidence in a supportive learning environment. A strong emphasis on group learning encourages cooperation, teamwork, and mutual support that will be beneficial in the helping professions.

You will be prepared to make effective and informed decisions regarding future education and career choices.

*Applicants to the Social Service Worker program are encouraged to apply well in advance of the application deadline for the following academic year.

Note: Students preparing to apply to the Behavioural Science Technology program are advised to take Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas Program (A109) rather than Pre-Community Services.

Required Courses

The School of Work and College Preparation provides applicants and students access to a Pathway Advisor and a Student Success Specialist.

The Pathway Advisor provides students with information about upgrading options, pre-programs, and articulation agreements, and helps facilitate the transition into further post-secondary programs.

The Student Success Specialist assists students to meet their academic and career goals by providing general and personalized success strategies, peer learning groups, and college-wide resources.

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Discuss the roles, responsibilities, career opportunities, academic and personal requirements for success in the Community Services and Child Studies field.
• Apply culturally sensitive communication and interpersonal skills to support team functioning in academic and professional settings with the ability to engage in self-reflection.
• Explain major theoretical models of behavior associated with the study of psychology.
• Apply the appropriate client service strategies according to client behavior/preference.
• Select the Community Services and Child Studies field best suited to personal and career interests.
• Explain how academic strengths, needs, and personal health factors affect success and wellness in a college environment.
• Utilize written and verbal communication skills specific to the Community Services and Child Studies field.

Educational Pathways

Upon completion of the Pre-Community Services program (A103) with an overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher, students may qualify for admission into the following, but not limited to:

• Child and Youth Care
• Community Worker
• Social Service Work

Please note: There are a limited number of seats available and admission is not guaranteed. Successful completion of the certificate program may provide exemptions from certain Community Services courses, depending upon grade-level achieved.