Personal Support Worker (NACC)
- Certificate
- Duration: 23 weeks (minimum)
- Total hours: 700 (Theory: 400 hrs, Internship: 300 hrs)
Looking for a fulfilling and in-demand career that makes a difference in people's personal lives? Consider becoming a Personal Support Worker! With a practicum placement and training, you will be equipped to work in long-term care facilities, home care settings, hospitals, and more. Join a supportive community of professionals who make a positive impact every day.
This program is certified by NACC, a national association representing 550 regulated career colleges across Canada, and is widely acknowledged both nationally and internationally.
Why Students Choose CanNorth PSW Program
Flexible learning, real-world placement, and payment options that work for you
Live Online Classes — No Commute, Learn from Home
Attend theory classes live online from home — no need to commute to campus for lectures. Only 300 hours of clinical placement and a few hands-on lab sessions require in-person attendance.
- Live online classes — attend from anywhere
- Save time and money on commuting
- In-person only for placement and essential skills labs
Real Placement at Leading GTA Facilities
Complete 300 hours of clinical placement at major long-term care facilities and healthcare centres across Markham, Richmond Hill, and Toronto. This is real work experience — many students receive job offers before their placement ends.
- Placement sites in Markham, Richmond Hill & Toronto
- Work alongside experienced healthcare professionals
- Many students get hired before graduation
Payment Plans & Financial Aid Support
We offer monthly payment plans for most students to make tuition manageable. Our team also helps eligible applicants apply for Better Jobs Ontario — a government program that can cover tuition and living expenses.
- Monthly payment plans available for most students
- Better Jobs Ontario application support
- BJO eligibility: Canadian citizen/PR + low income or unemployed
Highlights
This program provides hands-on training and real clinical placement experience to prepare you for a career in personal support. High demand across Ontario means strong job prospects upon graduation.
Employment Opportunities
Long-term care homes, hospitals, home care agencies, retirement residences, and community support programs.
Potential Future Title
Personal Support Worker (PSW)
Program Details
What You Will Learn
The Course consists of 15 modules. These modules are covered in the classroom and in the practicum.
- PSW Foundations
- Safety and Mobility
- Body Systems
- Assisting with Personal Hygiene
- Abuse and Neglect
- Household Management, Nutrition and Hydration
- Care Planning, Restorative Care, Documentation, Working in the Community
- Assisting the Family, Growth and Development
- Assisting the Dying Person
- Assisting with Medications
- Cognitive and Mental Health Issues and Brain Injuries
- Health Conditions
- Gentle Persuasive Approaches in Dementia Care
- Clinical Placement (Facility)
- Clinical Placement (Community)
Admission Requirements
- An Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent
- English Preparation Program - Advanced Level or Academic Preparation Program Required for Certain International students
Salary
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the PSW program?
About 6 months total. This includes online classes and 300 hours of hands-on placement at real healthcare facilities.
What are the entry requirements?
You need a high school diploma (or equivalent) and English proficiency. No prior healthcare experience required.
What financial support options are available?
We offer monthly payment plans for most students to make tuition manageable. Our team also helps eligible applicants apply for Better Jobs Ontario (BJO) — a government program that can cover tuition and living expenses.
What schedule options are available?
Online classes are held on weekday evenings. For placement, the schedule depends on the availability and shift arrangements at your assigned facility.
How is the placement arranged?
We partner with healthcare facilities mainly in Markham, Richmond Hill, and Toronto. Our placement team matches you with a suitable site based on location and availability.
What certification will I receive?
Graduates receive an Ontario college certificate and a NACC PSW certificate that meets Ontario Ministry of Health standards for PSW employment.
Do you help with job placement?
Our placement program gives you real hands-on experience at actual healthcare facilities. Many students get hired full-time at their placement sites before graduation. The school also provides career support to help you find employment.
What is the tuition cost?
Contact our admissions team for current tuition rates and available financial aid options. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
How to Apply?
Get in Touch with Us
Meet With an Education Counselor
Come and Explore Our Campus
Get Accepted and Enroll