Personal Support Worker | Wrenford Polytechnic

Academic Department

Allied Health & Wellness

Editorial Section

School of Health Sciences

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

Sort Name

Personal Support Worker

Summary

This one-year certificate equips you with the practical skills and compassionate care techniques needed to support individuals in their daily lives. You will learn how to assist clients with personal care, mobility, and health management while working in settings like long-term care homes, hospitals, and clients' private residences. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on practice to build your confidence and readiness for the workforce.

Career outcomes

Personal Support Worker
Resident Care Attendant
Home Support Worker
Health Care Aide
Client Service Attendant

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
You must be comfortable working with diverse populations and able to pass a criminal record check and health screening as required by placement sites.

Tuition

Domestic tuition is $3,480 for the year (two terms), plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

You will study the fundamentals of person-centred care, learning how to assist with daily living activities, mobility, and basic health monitoring. The curriculum covers communication strategies, safety protocols, and infection control so you can work confidently in any care environment. You will also explore the psychological and social factors that affect clients' well-being, preparing you to provide respectful, holistic support. Through simulated labs and supervised practice, you will develop the practical skills needed to assist clients with personal care, medication reminders, and mobility safely.

How the program runs

The Personal Support Worker program is delivered full-time across both the Benchlands and Mercer Street campuses. Classes run three days a week, with the remaining time dedicated to labs, simulated practice, and supervised field placements. You will have access to the simulation centre in Corvid Hall for hands-on skill development before you begin your practicum. The program starts in September, January, and May, and you can complete it in one year by taking two terms of courses.

Admission

Admission is based on the completion of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status. There is no application fee to submit your application to Wrenford Polytechnic. You will need to provide proof of immunizations and pass a criminal record check prior to starting your field placements. We encourage all applicants to attend an information session to learn more about the program requirements and career paths.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition is $3,480 for the year. Ancillary fees total $1,125 per year and cover services like the library, tutoring, and student association. You can pay your fees through the student portal or set up a payment plan. International students pay a different rate and should review the international student admission page for details.

After you graduate

Graduates are ready to work immediately in long-term care homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private homes. Many employers hire our students for full-time positions before they even finish their final term. The program also provides a strong foundation if you decide to continue your education in nursing or allied health programs later on.

How to apply

Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. Part-time and Continuing Education students register directly. To start your application, visit the How to apply page. You can also book a campus tour to see the facilities and meet faculty members.