Certification
6 Months
300 Hours
Credential Type
Program Duration
Practicum Duration
Curriculum Overview
The NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) program equips students with the knowledge and skills required to provide compassionate and professional care to individuals in various settings, including homes, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community settings.
Practical, hands-on training and a clinical placement are integral to the curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare system, providing essential support to clients and their families.
Admission Requirements
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If English is not a student’s first language, they must provide proof of English competency. English Language Proficiency Requirements are ONE of the following:
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IELTS – Int’l English Language Testing Services – Minimum score of 5.5 with no subject test score lower than 5.5; or
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TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet based test (IBT) – Overall 80 with the minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; or
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CAEL: Overall 60 No section below 60
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Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General with a score of 7 (no section score below 6)
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Canadian Language Benchmark Tests with a score of 7 in each strand (not an average of 7)
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Duolingo English Test with a minimum score of 95
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Pearson PTE Academic with a minimum score of 46
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NACC Written Entrance Exam (passing score of 60)
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Evidence of successful completion of 2 consecutive years of full-time equivalent post-secondary study in English at a Canadian institution
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Evidence of successful completion of 2 consecutive years of full-time equivalent post-secondary study in English at an institution outside of Canada
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Practicum Placements
The practicum portion of the NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) program is a critical component that bridges classroom learning with real-world application. During the practicum, students gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, and community care environments. Under the supervision of experienced professionals, students apply their skills in assisting with personal care, mobility, nutrition, and emotional support for clients. This practical training not only enhances their confidence and competence but also provides valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of a PSW, preparing graduates to seamlessly transition into the workforce.
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Furthermore, a practicum placement offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Students have the chance to interact with professionals in their chosen industry, build relationships, and gain insights from those with practical experience. These connections often prove instrumental in securing future employment or internship opportunities, providing a direct link between education and career advancement.
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Practicum Benefits:
The practicum component of the NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) program offers numerous benefits to students, such as:
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Practical application of classroom knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing skills like patient care and communication.
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Building connections with healthcare professionals and potential employers.
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Developing confidence and professionalism through supervised training in both clinical and community settings.
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Learning to adapt to diverse patient needs under the guidance of experienced mentors.
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The average salary for a Personal Support Worker in Canada ranges between $39,000 and $46,000 per year, depending on location, employer, and experience level​
Learning Outcomes
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Understand the Role of a PSW: Demonstrate knowledge of the responsibilities, ethics, and professional behavior required in healthcare and support environments.
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Provide Quality Care: Deliver person-centered care with empathy, respecting the dignity, preferences, and cultural backgrounds of clients.
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Perform Personal Care Tasks: Safely and competently assist with hygiene, mobility, feeding, and other activities of daily living to promote client comfort and independence.
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Support Health and Wellness: Apply foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions to maintain and enhance client well-being.
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Communicate Effectively: Develop strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills to interact with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
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Ensure Safety and Infection Control: Implement safety protocols and infection prevention strategies to protect clients, families, and caregivers.
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Support Specialized Needs: Provide care for clients with mental health challenges, dementia, chronic illnesses, or palliative care needs.
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Adapt to Diverse Settings: Work competently in various environments, such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, or home settings, addressing unique client requirements.
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Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills: Assess client needs and make informed decisions in dynamic and often challenging care situations.
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Engage in Continuous Learning: Reflect on experiences, seek feedback, and pursue ongoing education to enhance professional growth.
Modules
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PSW Foundations
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Safety and Mobility
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Body Systems
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Assisting with Personal Hygiene
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Abuse and Neglect
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Household Management, Nutrition and Hydration
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Care Planning, Restorative Care, Documentation, Working in the Community
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Assisting the Family, Growth and Development
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Assisting the Dying Person
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Assisting with Medications
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Cognitive and Mental Health Issues and Brain Injuries
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Health Conditions
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Gentle Persuasive Approaches in Dementia Care
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Clinical Placement (Facility)
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Clinical Placement (Community)
