Community Services & Support
OVERVIEW
The Indigenous Human Services Certificate and Diploma programs equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in non-profit agencies, Indigenous communities, and government. Graduates learn trauma-informed practices, human service theory, and decolonization-focused approaches to support individuals and families facing diverse social challenges.
The Indigenous Human Service Certificate and Diploma prepares students with a career in non-profit agencies, Indigenous communities, and government. Graduates of the certificate program will be able to provide support and assistance to agencies and communities coping with economic disadvantage, mental health issues, developmental, gender and diversity issues, as well as challenges such as addictions, family change and involvement with the justice system. Once graduates complete the Diploma portion of the program, they will be able to extend these supports and services to individuals and families.
The program focuses on developing skills in trauma-informed practice, social policy from a decolonization perspective, and effective communication. With a combination of academic and experiential learning, students gain the tools to address complex social challenges while fostering empathy, professionalism, and cultural understanding. Graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of communities.
Students who wish to continue their education have the opportunity to ladder into the Social Work Degree Program at NVIT.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Grade 12 graduation, Mature Student status, or equivalent;
- Two (2) letters of Reference;
- C+ minimum in English 12;
- Age 19 by program start
Additional Requirements for Practicum Placement
- Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Criminal Record Check Clearance for Vulnerable Sector (RCMP Checks will not be accepted).
NVIT is committed to ensuring education is accessible to all people. Students who do not meet program requirements should contact the Department Coordinator or an NVIT Academic Planner regarding upgrading opportunities.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
| Certificate | ||
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| ENGL 101 | Foundations for Academic Writing | 3.0 |
| ENGL 110 | English Composition | 3.0 |
| IHMS 110 | Fundamentals to Interpersonal Communication | 3.0 |
| IHMS 120 | Introduction to Indigenous Studies and Human Service Practice | 3.0 |
| IHMS 130 | Introduction to Professional Human Service Practice | 3.0 |
| IHMS 140 | Introduction to Working with Substance Use | 3.0 |
| IHMS 150 | Introduction to the Family in Human Service Practice | 3.0 |
| IHMS 160 | Field Education Practicum | 3.0 |
| PSYC 111 | Introduction to Psychology I | 3.0 |
| PSYC 121 | Introduction to Psychology II | 3.0 |
| Diploma | ||
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| SOCW 200A | Introduction to Social Service Practice | 3.0 |
| PSYC 213 | Lifespan Human Development I | 3.0 |
| IHMS 210 | Theoretical Foundations of Human Service Practice | 3.0 |
| IHMS 250 | Interpersonal Relationships in the Human Services | 3.0 |
| PSYC 223 | Lifespan Development II | 3.0 |
| SOCW 200B | Introduction to Social Welfare in Canada | 3.0 |
| IHMS 320 | Trauma Informed Social Work Theory and Practice | 3.0 |
| IHMS 353 | Advanced Interpersonal Skills in Human Services | 3.0 |
| IHMS 260 | Indigenous Human Service Diploma Practicum | 3.0 |
| Elective | 3.0 | |
CAREER PATHWAYS
Career Pathways for Indigenous Human Services Graduates:
- Community Support Worker: Assist in Indigenous and non-profit organizations.
- Addictions Counsellor: Support individuals with substance use issues.
- Mental Health Worker: Help those facing mental health challenges.
- Social Services Assistant: Aid in delivering social services.
- Youth Worker: Mentor and guide at-risk youth.
- Family Support Worker: Assist families with housing, parenting, and legal needs.
- Program Coordinator: Manage community programs.
- Advocate: Drive policy change and support initiatives.
- Social Work Pathway: Pursue advanced social work roles.
Graduate may ladder into the Bachelor of Social Work.
LOOKING FOR TUITION SUPPORT?
Learn about scholarships, bursaries, grants, student loans, and entrance awards available to help with tuition.
CHOOSE PROGRAM
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RECEIVE A LETTER
You will receive either a Conditional Offer Letter or a Full Offer Letter by email from the Registrar’s Office.