Upon successful completion of this program, the student will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of social and community service systems that support individuals with addiction-related challenges.
• Explain contemporary models of addiction and treatment, including foundational pharmacological concepts and commonly used terminology.
• Identify and describe the processes of addiction and recovery, including recognition of the stages of change and associated client behaviours.
• Analyze key strategies for prevention, assessment, screening, intervention, relapse management, and safe withdrawal and detoxification practices.
• Examine the unique characteristics, risk factors, and intervention strategies relevant to high-risk and marginalized populations.
• Evaluate the influence of cultural competence and diversity awareness on the client–counsellor relationship and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.
• Analyze the principles and techniques of cognitive-behavioural counselling and apply them to address substance use and mental health challenges.
• Explore and assess AI applications such as predictive analytics, virtual therapy tools, and chatbots in supporting behavioural and mental health interventions.
• Integrate ethical, cultural, and professional considerations into client-centered treatment plans using both traditional and AI-enhanced counselling approaches

To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Basic Admission Requirements

• High School Completion: Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
• Age Requirement: Minimum 19 years of age.
• Mature Student Status*: Applicants who have not completed high school and are at least 19 years of age, may apply as a mature student.

*Mature student status may be granted to applicants who are over 19 years old and have not completed high school or equivalent. The applicants will be considered for admission based on the skills and experience they have acquired since leaving school. The applicant is required to provide the most recent transcripts or proof of academic accomplishments, a resume or summary of professional accomplishments, and two professional letters of recommendation. The applicant may be interviewed by the Registrar’s or Academic office to further assess their suitability for admission to the program of study.

2. English Language Proficiency
Applicants must meet one of the following:

• Minimum scores from accepted English tests (e.g., IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 46, Duolingo 95, etc.).

• Recent English proficiency test (within 2 years).

• Proof of English-language education:

  • 2–3 years of secondary or post-secondary education completed in English in eligible countries.

  • International credentials must be recognized by WES, ICES, or IQAS.

Requirements can vary from one program to another, so the applicant should be responsible for meeting the requirements set for every program.

Please see the Admission Requirements Guide for more information: Admission Requirements Guide.

• Achieve a minimum grade of 50% on each course’s final examination/presentation
• Maintain a minimum attendance rate of 80% for all scheduled courses
• Obtain a minimum overall grade of 70% in each course to pass

*Based on the NOC Version 2016 1.3

Unit Group 4212 – Social and community service workers

Career options* available but not limited to:

• Family social service agencies,
• Community mental health centers,
• Facilities for the physically and developmentally handicapped,
• Group homes and
• Correctional facilities.

• In-class instruction
• Distance education
• Combined delivery: (both in-class and distance)