Student Pathways Canada
HomeProgramsAddictions & Community Support Worker Diploma
⏱ This program is available Asynchronously (At Your Own Pace)In-class · Distance · Combined
Health & Social Services · Diploma Program

Addictions & Community Support Worker Diploma

Support individuals through addiction recovery - available in-class, hybrid, or fully online at your own pace.

52 Weeks
Duration
1,040 Hours
Total Hours
Weekly intakes
Intakes
Async / Online
Delivery

Program Overview

The Addictions and Community Support Worker Diploma prepares students to effectively manage administrative and implementation responsibilities of social assistance programs for individuals addressing addiction and post-addiction strategies. Students gain knowledge in pharmacology, psychology, sociology, ethics, and mental health fundamentals.

The program covers specialized topics including behavior analysis, high-risk populations, cognitive-behavioural counselling, substance abuse counselling, relapse prevention, and suicide prevention. Students also learn how AI is being applied in behavioral and mental health care.

This program is available in-class, hybrid, or fully online (asynchronous - at your own pace). Graduates are prepared for careers as addictions counsellors, community support workers, and mental health support workers.

Career Opportunities

Addictions Counsellor
Community Support Worker
Social Services Worker
Mental Health Support Worker
Substance Abuse Counsellor
Crisis Intervention Worker
Youth Outreach Worker
Residential Support Worker

Course Curriculum

1Learning Essentials (48h)
2Addictions Fundamentals (48h)
3Pharmacology Fundamentals (48h)
4Social Service Work Fundamentals (48h)
5Psychology Fundamentals (48h)
6Sociology Fundamentals (48h)
7Ethics Fundamentals (48h)
8Self-Care Techniques (48h)
9Resources & Networking (48h)
10Professional Report Writing (48h)
11Family Studies (48h)
12Mental Health Fundamentals (48h)
13Behavior Analysis Techniques (48h)
14High-Risk Populations (48h)
15Introduction to Cognitive-Behavioural Counselling (48h)
16Special Approaches to Substance Abuse Counselling (48h)
17Artificial Intelligence in Behavioral and Mental Health Care (40h)
18Suicide Prevention Techniques (48h)
19Career Essentials (40h)
20Child & Youth Populations (48h)
21Relapse Prevention (48h)
22Interview & Intake Procedures (48h)

Admission Requirements

Academic Eligibility

  • BC Secondary School Graduation Certificate (Dogwood Diploma) or equivalent
  • Mature student entry available (19+ years with relevant experience)
  • Alternative entrance assessment available for applicants without Grade 12
  • Post-secondary transcripts accepted where applicable

English Language Proficiency

  • English 12 (50% or higher) or equivalent
  • IELTS Academic 5.5 overall (no band below 5.0)
  • TOEFL iBT 46 or higher
  • Duolingo English Test 95 or higher
  • College English Assessment (available on request)

Technology Access

  • Personal laptop or desktop computer required
  • Reliable high-speed internet connection
  • Webcam and microphone for online sessions

Program Workload

  • Full-time commitment required (in-class + homework)
  • Expect 10–15 hours of independent study per week
  • Attendance policy strictly enforced per FC guidelines

Program Highlights

Duration52 Weeks
Study Hours1,040 Hours
Homework8–12 hrs/week
DeliveryIn-Class / Hybrid / Online (Async)
Online✓ Available
CampusesBC (Online Available)
IntakesWeekly intakes
GraduationMin. passing grade all courses

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Student Pathways Canada provides free guidance to help eligible BC residents apply for this program and navigate provincial student funding.

Check Your Eligibility← View All Programs