A Career That Makes a Difference: What You Should Know About Fleming’s Developmental Service Worker Program 

If you’re someone who finds meaning in helping others—and you’re looking for a career that reflects that—working as a Developmental Service Worker (DSW) might be a path worth exploring. 

At Fleming College, the DSW program is designed to prepare students to support individuals with a wide range of intellectual and developmental disabilities. But beyond the textbooks and classroom learning, it’s about building real relationships, creating inclusive communities, and helping people live full and independent lives. 

What does a Developmental Service Worker actually do? 

It’s a big question and the short answer is: a lot. 

Graduates of the program go on to work with children, youth, and adults who have disabilities like autism, Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, acquired brain injuries, or learning and physical disabilities. In this line of work, every day looks a little different. You might be: 

• Supporting someone in a classroom 

• Helping build life skills at home or in the community 

• Facilitating person-directed planning (helping people set and work toward their goals) 

• Supporting someone with employment or volunteering 

• Working at a summer camp or in a recreation program 

• Some even use individualized funding to start their own support businesses. 

At its core, the work is about meeting people where they’re at, understanding their strengths, and helping them navigate systems and communities that aren’t always built with accessibility in mind. 

What’s the program like at Fleming? 

Fleming’s DSW program runs for two years and is offered in a hybrid format at the Sutherland Campus. That means you’ll have the flexibility of online learning with the benefit of in-person labs, simulations, and hands-on activities. 

Courses cover topics like: 

• Person-Centered Planning 

• Fostering Inclusive Communities 

• Counselling Interventions 

• Case Management 

• Intro to Psychology 

In semester three, you’ll begin a field placement and by the time you graduate, you’ll have completed over 685 hours of hands-on experience in the field. That real-world exposure is a big part of why graduates leave feeling confident, connected, and ready to work. 

Bonus perk: Students in this program often get to take part in fun, meaningful activities with the individuals they support—like cheering on the Blue Jays in Toronto or heading out on exciting day trips. 

Why students choose this path 

What draws people to this field isn’t flashy job titles or high-pressure competition, it’s a desire to make a real impact. Students often talk about how fulfilling it is to build trust with someone, advocate for their needs, or be part of small, everyday victories that mean everything to the person they’re supporting. 

The program is grounded in values like dignity, empowerment, social justice, integrity, and the importance of healthy human relationships. If these ideas resonate with you, there’s a good chance you’ll find purpose in this kind of work. 

What happens after graduation? 

DSWs are in demand across Ontario—and there’s a wide range of settings where you can work. Some graduates stay local, while others take their skills across the country or even internationally. 

You might find yourself supporting mental health initiatives, working in school boards, building community inclusion programs, or joining an organization that offers home- and community-based services. There’s even growing opportunity in self-employment, where you can offer one-on-one support through personalized funding models. 

The work can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding—and it allows you to make a meaningful impact every single day. 

Is the Developmental Support Worker program a good fit for you? 

If you’re drawn to a career that combines compassion, advocacy, social justice, human rights, and action, the Developmental Service Worker program at Fleming College could be a great place to start. You don’t need to have all the answers now but if you’re curious, asking questions, or imagining yourself in this kind of role, it’s worth exploring further.  

To learn more about the program, visit the DSW program page or connect with the admissions team. Your future career could start with one conversation and one choice to do something that matters. 

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