Bridging Programs

The scope of work of a Social Service Worker (SSW) differs from that of a Social Worker in several important ways, which is key to note as you move through this course. Both are protected titles, and using them without being registered is illegal.

Key Differences Between Social Workers and Social Service Workers

  • Educational requirements
  • SSWs focus on providing tangible support to clients (e.g., employment, food, and financial assistance)
  • SSWs can only provide educational services to students of social service work
  • SSWs tend to be employed in community settings such as group homes, shelters, income programs, and youth programs, though they work across many areas of the social services field. For more details, see the Professional and Part-time Learning main page.

Bridging From Social Service Work to Social Work

Have you wondered about bridging from your Social Service Work diploma program to another program?

Right now, you are progressing through your SSW diploma at Durham College through Professional and Part-time Learning (PPL). You will learn all about counselling techniques, crisis intervention, community collaboration, and advocacy. As you look toward the future, you might be interested in bridging this program into a university stream.

Bridging programs serve as a connection to university after completing a college diploma. Many universities recognize your foundational training and offer pathways with advanced standing, often allowing you to skip the first year or two and jump straight into upper-level degree courses.

Durham College has specific agreements in place with several universities to make this transition seamless. You can explore these options on the Durham College Transfer Services & Pathways page.

Options to Bridge To

When thinking about bridging, people most often consider moving from Social Service Work to Social Work, but other great options are available as well! These include Durham College’s own Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health or the Fundamentals of Addictions program offered through Professional and Part-time Learning.

Where to Connect and Learn More

As you explore your bridging options, you can always reach out to learn more from the staff at Professional and Part-time Learning, including your SSW Student Engagement Liaison, Miranda McCormack!