NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022 Certificate Program

Achieve Success Within a Canadian Healthcare Career in Only 26 Weeks

NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022 Certificate Program

NACC Personal Support Workers (PSW) DE 2022 assist with the tasks of daily living, and may work in long-term care facilities, home care settings, retirement homes, supportive housing, group homes, adult day programs, hospitals, and educational facilities. The range of services provided by a PSW is determined by the individual needs of each client and may include assistance with routine activities of living including personal care, mobility, home

management, meal preparation, family care, and assisting with social and recreational activities.


As front-line workers, NACC Personal Support Workers (PSW) DE 2022 must develop a broad range of abilities beyond dexterity skills. They must provide not only for the comfort, safety, and well-being of their clients, but also demonstrate sensitivity and respect for those in their care. The attitude, abilities, and approach of the PSW are critical to the well-being and health of the people they support.

COURSE DETAILS

STARTING DATES

September 14, 2026

DURATION

26 Weeks

Choose from morning, afternoon, evening, weekend, or weekend night classes that fit your schedule!

COURSE DELIVERY

Online/In-Person

COURSE TUITION

$4860

Grant up to $1400. Conditions Apply*

REGISTRATION FEE

$230

NEED HELP WITH YOUR TUITION?

We have launched the Alpha Career College Diversity Grant worth up to $1,400.00 CAD. This grant is dedicated to our newest wave of NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022 Certificate students and is applicable to the tuition fees for this program. The grant will be applied after enrollment.


NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022

Job Opportunities

Personal Support Workers have the opportunity to work in:


  • Long Term Care Homes 
  • Retirement Homes 
  • Hospitals 
  • Home Care 
  • Shelters 
  • Group Homes 
  • Schools 
  • Assisted Living Facilities 
  • Hospice Care Facilities 
  • Private Care

Alpha Student Experiences

"They're always supportive. You can lean on them anytime. It's a college that I would recommend everyone to attend. You will receive the best student experience and you definitely won't regret it." 

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Admissions Requirements

  • Prior Education. This must be demonstrated through one of the following options:


  1. An Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
  2. Equivalent foreign credentials must be translated into English and assessed for Grade 12 equivalency by a recognized organization
  3. A score of 11 or more on the Wonderlic SLE (administered by Alpha Career College)
  4. NACC Program Entrance Examination with a passing score of 60 (mandatory and administered by Alpha Career College) 


  • Background Check. A current clear Canada wide Police Clearance of Criminal Record with Vulnerable Sector screening is required within 45 days of commencement of study.


  • Medical Report. A satisfactory medical report is required within 45 days of commencement of study. The form is provided by Alpha Career College.


Note: All placements, the final exam, and the practical assessment take place in Ontario. These requirements are mandatory and cannot be changed.


Alpha Career College reserves the right to modify course start dates at any time prior to the official commencement of classes. All schedules, offerings, and program details are subject to change without notice. The College assumes no liability for adjustments made in accordance with institutional policies or applicable regulations.


*Approved as a vocational program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005

** Upon successful completion of all graduation requirements, students are eligible to receive a NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022 Certificate issued by Alpha Career College.

Program Overview

  • PSW 001 - PSW Foundations

    The introductory module provides an overview of the scope of responsibilities of PSWs in a variety of settings. Students will learn about client-centred versus client-directed care; and emphasizing the individuality of the client and his/her relationship with family, friends and others. Key topics include work relationships, stress and time management, interpersonal skills and communications, including conflict resolution and problem-solving, and applicable legislation.

  • PSW 002 - Safety and Mobility

    This module covers safety as it relates to both the client and the worker. One of the fundamental activities of the PSW is that of assisting the client with routine activities of living. Students will learn about risks of unsafe equipment or settings and appropriate actions to take when unsafe situations are identified. Topics include infection control methods, body mechanics, and transferring and lifting techniques using equipment to increase safety and reduce client anxiety.

  • PSW 003 - Body Systems

    This module will introduce the student to the basics of anatomy and physiology. Students will gain an understanding of human body systems in order to apply that knowledge in their daily work as a Personal Support Worker. These body systems are: the musculoskeletal, digestive, urinary, integumentary, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and endocrine. Common disorders and age-related changes for each body system will also be covered.

  • PSW 004 - Assisting with Personal Hygiene

    PSW’s assist clients with all activities or routines of daily living. Students will learn how to care for the ill, disabled, injured and/or confused client. Frailness, dignity and levels of dependence will be considered. Personal hygiene, mobility considerations and involves personal safety, self-esteem and dignity. The foundation of this module is humanistic health care.

  • PSW 005 - Abuse and Neglect

    This module introduces students to the concepts of violence and abuse, including its possible signs,and the appropriate actions and legal requirements if abuse is suspected. Personal beliefs and attitudes about family violence and abuse are examined, as is the concept of worker abuse of the client and, abuse of the worker.

  • PSW 006 - Nutrition

    In this module students will learn to assist the client with their nutritional needs, household activities, and household management according to client preferences, comfort, and safety within employer guidelines as required. Nutritional needs include planning balanced nutritious menus, preparing shopping lists, shopping, safe handling of food, storage, and specific cooking techniques. Special dietary needs of infants, pregnant and nursing mothers, persons with specific conditions (diabetes, feeding tubes, etc.), as well as persons with specific cultural and religious preferences will be addressed. Students will have the opportunity to practice and demonstrate skills in a lab environment.

  • PSW 007 - Care Planning

    This module builds on the materials presented in the introductory module PSW Fundamentals. It

    identifies the support to be provided and the significance of the support to the client, and of the need for the support. 

  • PSW 008 - Assisting the Family/ Growth and Development

    Students learn to understand family characteristics in terms of structure, functions, roles, lifestyles and relationships. The influence of cultural values, practices, religious beliefs as well as the effects of illness, stress, and disability on family relationships will be emphasized as central to the PSW’s ability to provide effective support. 

  • PSW 009 - Assisting The Dying Person

    In this module students learn about hospice, palliative and end-of-life care, the integration of a palliative approach to care, ways of being, communication and practical strategies to provide psychosocial support and physical comfort care for both the person and their family. 

  • PSW 010 - Assisting With Medications

    Within the PSW scope of practice, students learn about medication administration versus assistance. They gain basic knowledge of the drugs used in the treatment of common diseases and disorders including use, classification, effects, and routes of administration. 

  • PSW 011 - Cognitive and Mental Health Challenges and Brain Injuries

    This module introduces students to common psychiatric conditions such as affective disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, cognitive impairment, and brain injury. 

  • PSW 012 -Health Conditions

    Students are introduced to ongoing conditions and basic concepts of assistance, as well as the general effects on the person of common disabilities, conditions and diseases. Students will gain skill in the necessary techniques while focusing on the importance of providing support safely, effectively and comfortably. 

  • PSW 013 - Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA®️) in Dementia Care

    Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA®️) in Dementia Care is a multi-disciplinary education program designed for everyone who interacts with older adults in the workplace. Participants are guided to fully understand responsive behaviours to be able to respond effectively and appropriately in a workplace setting.  

  • PSW 014 - Clinical Placement (Community)

    Clinical placement provides students with an opportunity to practice their new skills in a work setting. Students gain experience in a wider range of PSW skills, become more self-confidant, and may receive offers of employment from the placement site. site. In this module, the students will spend time working in a community setting under the supervision of a preceptor provided by the host site.

  • PSW 015 - Clinical Placement (Facility)

    Clinical placement provides students with an opportunity to practice their new skills in a work setting. While on placement, students gain experience in a wider range of PSW skills, become more self-confidant, and may receive offers of employment from the placement site. In this module, the students will spend time working in a facility setting for 100 hours under the supervision of their instructor and under a preceptor provided by the host site for an additional 100 hours.

Register Now For The NACC Personal Support Worker (PSW) DE 2022 Program to Begin Your Journey at Alpha Career College

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Where can I work after completing the PSW program?

    Personal Support Workers are in demand across Ontario, making PSW a great choice for individuals looking to start or build a meaningful career in healthcare. 


    Graduates can pursue opportunities in long-term care homes, retirement homes, hospitals, assisted living, home and community care, private home care, and healthcare agencies. 


    A PSW career also provides room to grow. With additional education, some PSWs choose to continue their studies and pursue careers such as Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). 


    If you enjoy helping people and want a career where your work makes a difference every day, becoming a PSW can be a great place to start. 

  • Can completing the PSW program help me qualify for permanent residence in Canada?

    Completing the PSW program does not guarantee permanent residence. However, some PSW-related occupations are classified under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system and may be considered under certain federal or provincial immigration programs. 


    Your eligibility will depend on your individual circumstances, including your employment, NOC classification, work experience, language proficiency, and the immigration program requirements in place at the time. 


    Alpha Career College does not provide immigration advice. We encourage students interested in permanent residence to contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a licensed immigration professional to explore available pathways. 

  • Are Alpha Career College programs eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

    No. Alpha Career College programs are not currently eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, as Alpha Career College is not a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). 


    A PGWP is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to eligible graduates of qualifying programs and institutions. Our Admissions team can provide information about our programs and the credentials you will receive upon completion. 

  • Do you offer a pathway from PSW to RPN?

    Alpha Career College does not currently offer a PSW-to-RPN bridging program. However, completing your NACC Personal Support Worker certificate provides a strong foundation if you decide to continue your education in nursing. 


    There are colleges in Ontario that offer PSW-to-Practical Nursing (RPN) pathways, subject to their individual admission requirements. 


    Our Admissions team can provide you with information about available pathways and help you understand the next steps so you can explore your options directly with the institution offering the bridging program.

  • I am a nurse from another country. Is there a pathway for me to become a PSW in Ontario?

    Yes. Alpha Career College offers a PSW bridging program for internationally educated nurses who want to transition their existing nursing education and experience into the PSW field in Ontario. 


    Your previous nursing education and qualifications are reviewed to determine your eligibility for the PSW Bridging Program and the requirements you will need to complete. 


    Our Admissions team can review your qualifications, explain the process, and help you choose the right pathway to earn your PSW certificate. 

  • Do I receive a certificate or a diploma after completing the PSW program?

    Upon successfully completing all Personal Support Worker (PSW) program requirements and passing the NACC final examination, students receive a Personal Support Worker Certificate from both the National Association of Career Colleges (NACC) and Alpha Career College. 


    NACC establishes the PSW curriculum and training standards used by participating career colleges across Ontario. Graduating from the NACC PSW program provides students with a recognized credential that demonstrates they have completed the required education and training to work as a Personal Support Worker. 

  • If I relocate outside Ontario, can I use my PSW certificate to find employment?

    Your PSW education and training may help you qualify for similar healthcare support positions across Canada. Depending on the province, the role may have a different title, such as Health Care Aide (HCA), Continuing Care Assistant (CCA), or Care Aide. 


    Requirements vary by province and employer, and you may need additional registration, certification, or training. 


    If you need documentation to verify your education, Alpha Career College can provide supporting documents, such as your transcript, confirmation of program completion, or a letter outlining your PSW education and training. 


    We recommend checking the specific requirements of the province and employer where you plan to work. 

  • Why should I consider becoming a Personal Support Worker?

    Personal Support Workers play an important role in Ontario's healthcare system by providing essential care and support to individuals who need assistance with daily living. 


    PSW can be a rewarding career for people who enjoy helping others, working with people, and making a meaningful difference in someone's quality of life. It can also provide a strong foundation for individuals who may want to continue their education in healthcare. 

  • Are Personal Support Workers in demand?

    Yes. Personal Support Workers continue to be needed across Ontario, particularly in long-term care, retirement homes, home and community care, and other healthcare settings. 


    An aging population and the growing need for healthcare and community-based support continue to create opportunities for trained PSWs. 


    Employment is not guaranteed, but PSW training can prepare graduates to pursue opportunities across a variety of healthcare settings. 

  • Do I need previous healthcare experience?

    No. You do not need previous healthcare experience to begin the PSW program. 


    The program provides students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills they need to enter the field. 


    Students come from many different educational and employment backgrounds, including individuals making a career change. 

  • Is there a PSW placement?

    Yes. The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program includes a 300-hour clinical placement, which is arranged and provided by the college. 


    The placement consists of: 


    200 hours in a Long-Term Care (LTC) setting 


    100 hours in a Community setting 


    Clinical placement provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real care environments while working under appropriate supervision. Students must successfully meet all academic, health, and placement requirements before beginning their clinical placement. 

  • Does Alpha Career College help arrange my placement?

    Yes. Alpha Career College works with placement partners to help eligible students access placement opportunities. 


    Placement availability depends on factors such as partner capacity, location, scheduling, student readiness, and the placement facility's requirements. 


    Students are expected to remain flexible regarding placement location and scheduling, as healthcare facilities determine their available placement opportunities. 

  • What do I need before starting my placement?

    Students must complete the required academic components and provide all required placement documentation before they can begin. 


    Requirements may include items such as: 

    • Vulnerable Sector Check 
    • Medical and immunization documentation 
    • TB screening 
    • Standard First Aid and CPR certification (Level C) 
    • Other health or safety requirements established by the placement facility 

    Students receive information about these requirements in advance so they have time to prepare. 

  • What is the NACC examination?

    Students complete the NACC final examination after successfully meeting all Personal Support Worker (PSW) program requirements. The exam assesses the knowledge and competencies gained throughout the program and is required to obtain the NACC Personal Support Worker Certificate. 


    Alpha Career College prepares students throughout the program for the knowledge and skills evaluated on the examination. 


    Exam Structure and Format 


    • Question Type: Multiple-choice questions covering 12 foundational care modules, including ethics, safety, chronic and acute illness, and care planning. 
    • Length: Typically 200 questions. 
    • Time Limit: 2.5 hours (150 minutes). 
    • Passing Score: A minimum score of 65% is required to pass.
    • Scheduling: Students must successfully complete all required coursework and practical placements before scheduling the examination through their respective college representative. 

  • Is the PSW program difficult?

    PSW training requires commitment, regular attendance, studying, practical skills development, and successful completion of the academic and placement requirements. 


    Students do not need to enter the program already knowing how to provide care. The program teaches and develops those skills. 


    Students who stay engaged, attend classes, complete their work, ask for help when needed, and take their practical training seriously put themselves in a stronger position to succeed. 

  • Can I take the PSW program while I am working?

    Many students balance their education with employment and family responsibilities. 


    Whether this is manageable will depend on your work schedule, the class schedule, and particularly your clinical placement requirements, which may require availability at specific times determined by the placement facility. 


    Admissions can review the program schedule with you before enrolment so you understand the time commitment. 

  • Will Alpha Career College help me prepare for employment?

    Alpha Career College focuses on helping students become workplace-ready, not just completing the program's academic requirements. 


    Throughout your training, you develop practical skills, professionalism, communication skills, and an understanding of healthcare employers' expectations. 


    Students may also receive guidance on employment preparation, including understanding common hiring requirements and preparing to pursue opportunities after graduation. 


    Employment is not guaranteed, but our goal is for graduates to leave the program with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to compete for opportunities in the field. 

  • What makes Alpha Career College's PSW program different?

    At Alpha Career College, we focus on combining education, practical skills, student support, and employment readiness. 


    Our goal is to prepare students not only to successfully complete the PSW program, but also to understand what will be expected of them when caring for real people in healthcare and community settings. 


    Students receive training that emphasizes safe care, professionalism, compassion, communication, practical skills, and respect for the people they serve. 


    We want our graduates to enter the workforce prepared to provide quality care and build a meaningful career in healthcare.