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This new pathway is designed specifically for graduates who hold a Social Service Worker (SSW) diploma from an Ontario college, allowing them to earn an Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health degree in just two years.
Through a comprehensive mix of theoretical, research and applied courses, this program provides students with an opportunity to earn an honours bachelor’s degree, which directly expands upon the SSW diploma to further develop skills and competencies and cover current theoretical perspectives in the field of community mental health. Advanced courses focus on social science research, community advocacy and therapeutic interventions.
Social Service Worker Ontario College Diploma with a minimum average of 60 per cent.
If you do not meet the requirements for this pathway, click here for the standard program page.
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Graduates of the mental health and addictions program will be prepared to pursue diverse career opportunities in the field of community mental health, providing essential support to individuals and groups. With a strong foundation in mental health programs and hands-on experience, you’ll be equipped to make a meaningful impact in various roles across private, public, and non-profit sectors.
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Fill out the form to get more information on your program of interest, upcoming events, and how to become a Durham College student. By submitting your information below, you consent to Durham College contacting you via email and/or SMS with a minimum of 4 messages per month. You may withdraw consent at any time.
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Developed in response to the growing need for mental health services, this degree program prepares future practitioners with the skills and theoretic knowledge required to provide support and leadership within the evolving landscape of community mental health.
The HBMH program has been developed by DC in collaboration with subject matter experts and representatives from the private, non-profit and government sectors, focused on community mental health, adult and youth court diversion counselling, developmental disabilities and concurrent disorders, gender-based counselling services, health care and addiction services.
Built on the foundations of psychology, mental health promotion, counselling, social justice and equity, this program provides students with a strong cultural humility lens and a thorough understanding of social factors required to support the mental health needs of equity-deserving populations.
Through a comprehensive mix of theoretical, research and applied courses, students integrate their knowledge in a mandatory 14-week, 420-hour experiential work placement, bridging the transition from the classroom to career. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and concrete skills to successfully work in a variety of community mental health settings in positions such as outreach workers and case managers, as well as roles focused on mental health, crisis and addictions counselling. Graduates may also find employment as community and housing support workers or in residential settings supporting youth, adults and seniors.
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
In person
Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements. Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
Earning a bachelor’s degree in community mental health opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in this growing field. As a graduate, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to address complex challenges in mental health programs and provide support to individuals and communities dealing with issues such as concurrent disorders, addictions, and crisis situations. From case management and crisis counseling to mental health promotion and advocacy consultancy, the mental health and addictions program prepares you for impactful roles that emphasize equity, cultural humility, and evidence-based practices. Whether working in addiction care, housing support, or residential youth work, you’ll be ready to help meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the mental health sector.
School is an investment in your future, and financial support is available to help you succeed.
DC's Financial Aid and Awards is here to help you access funding and opportunities that make pursuing your education easier and more achievable:
Visit Financial Aid and Awards to explore all the options to help finance your education.
Students gain work-integrated learning experience in a supervised setting engaging in a 14-week, 420-hour mandatory field placement between the second and third semesters. Field placement is a cornerstone of this program, giving students the chance to bring their coursework to life in a professional setting.
Please note: There are costs associated with Electronic Student Permit Checking (ESPC), immunizations, lab tests and certifications. Be sure to keep all of your receipts for income tax purposes. These costs include:
It is required that students have completed the ESPC with Verified to be eligible for the field placement component of this mental health program. You must (at your expense) provide:
Durham College provides flexible pathways that allow you to build on your prior education and experience. To explore partnerships with Canadian and international institutions and discover transfer options that are tailored to your academic goals click here.
Looking for more pathway opportunities or to transfer to Durham College? Click here for more information.
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