Personal Support Worker - 110
OSAP Eligible
Overview
Program Highlights
- Program is taught using a variety of methods including online, classroom lecture, clinical and lab experiences and field placement.
- Collaborative learning environment where you and your peers will experience simulated and real-life opportunities in state-of-the-art labs.
- Online theory classes to support study-life balance.
- Complete your certificate with a focus in gerontology by working with adults at the new training facility at The Village of Wentworth Heights.
What you'll learn
- Apply combined theoretical knowledge with practical skills to work as a team member with clients, families, nurses, physicians and other support services.
- Hands-on experience through professional practice placements in health care agencies under the supervision of instructors and preceptors.
- Provide service to a wide variety of clients.
- Recognize legislation that is relevant to the role including the Human Rights Code, Child and Family Services Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Workers’ Compensation Act, and the Long Term Care Homes Amendment Act and the acts it amends.
- Apply theoretical learning in an authentic, real-world setting when you study in the Living Classroom at the Tansley Woods, Wentworth Heights campuses along with St. Josephs’ Villa.
Program Length
1 academic year (period of 8 months)
View the Exceptions Calendar for start dates and semester break information.
Students in the PSW program must complete the program within 2.5 years from when they started to graduate (max 8 terms). Failure to complete within this timeline will result in having to reapply to semester 1 through OCAS and restart the program. Programs are often reviewed to ensure that they are current and meet industry standards. If any changes are made to the program of studies there could be additional courses that are needed for out-of-synch students to graduate.
Admission
Admission
- OSSD or equivalent (Mohawk Academic Upgrading, GED) including:
- Grade 12 English, C or U or equivalent
- Please see Experiential Learning tab for important information on first semester pre-placement requirements
Options are available for mature applicants.
Don't have the necessary requirements?
Language Requirements for Applicants with English as a Second Language
- See below for accepted equivalents for Grade 12 English:
- Successful completion of the GAS-English for Academic Purposes (478) program
- TOEFL minimum score of 550 (80 Internet based)
- or IELTS Academic minimum score of 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5
- More information about acceptable certificates, can be found on the International Admission Requirements
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and Fees
2025 - 2026 Domestic Tuition and Fees
| Description | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory Ancillary Fees | $907.11 | $809.78 |
| Co-op Fees | N/A | N/A |
| Compulsory Program Fees | $136.00 | $0.00 |
| Domestic Tuition | $1,354.04 | $1,354.04 |
| Total Domestic Charges Per Semester | $2,397.15 | $2,163.82 |
| Total 1st Year Fees | $4,560.97 | |
Above fees based on full-time September program start date. Contact Student Services to confirm fees for other start dates or semesters.
- Full Cost Breakdown
- Explore payment options
- Book costs for your program can be found through the McMaster Campus Store
- If your program includes a clinical, practicum, or field placement, you may be required to complete Preplacement Non-Academic Requirements (NARs). Full details will be provided in your classes. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks). More information can be found on the Preplacement Services webpage.
- You will also be required to purchase various supplies to fulfill your program requirements. Full details will be provided in your classes. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks).
2025 - 2026 International Tuition and Fees
| Description | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tuition & Ancillary Fee | $8,890.00 | $8,890.00 |
| Co-op Fees | N/A | N/A |
| Program Compulsory Fees | $136.00 | $0.00 |
| International Tax Recovery | $450.00 | $375.00 |
| Total International Charges Per Semester | $9,476.00 | $9,265.00 |
| Total 1st Year Fees | $18,741.00 | |
If you pay by wire transfer, please note your bank might charge you a fee to transfer money. Make sure your transfer includes the Mohawk payment and the wire transfer fee. This applies to each wire transfer payment you make.
- Explore payment options
- Book costs for your program can be found through the McMaster Campus Store
- If your program includes a clinical, practicum, or field placement, you may be required to complete Preplacement Non-Academic Requirements (NARs). Full details will be provided in your classes. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks). More information can be found on the Preplacement Services webpage.
- You will also be required to purchase various supplies to fulfill your program requirements. Full details will be provided in your classes. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks).
Additional Information
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
When it comes to paying for your education, investing in your future can be more affordable than you think. A Mohawk education is one of the most cost-effective means of acquiring the skills and knowledge you need to have a prosperous and rewarding career.
As you start on your chosen career path, it's important to have a realistic set of expectations regarding the expenses associated with attending college. In addition to your tuition fees, you will also need to budget for books, supplies, housing, and other related living expenses. You may be able to supplement your income and savings with scholarships, bursaries, or loans. It pays to do some research into what types of financial assistance you may qualify for.
Available Financial Assistance Resources:
- OSAP Eligible. Learn about Ontario Student Assistance Program - OSAP (domestic students only)
- Working on Campus
- Additional Sources of Funding
- Financial Assistance Home Page
Apply for Awards:
By submitting a Scholarships and Bursaries Application every semester, students have access to over $3 million in Mohawk College scholarships, bursaries and Ministry-partnered funding to help meet their financial needs.
Financial Literacy:
Whether saving for school, sticking to a budget, or planning for a major purchase, financial literacy affects us all. That's why Mohawk College is dedicated to helping students improve their financial literacy and become more confident in managing their money.
- Complete the free online Money Matters Module to earn Co-Curricular Credit!
- Financial Resources and Calculators
Program of Studies
Course Overview & Descriptions
Click on the course title for a course description.
Experiential Learning
Experiential Learning
How you'll gain skills
- Experience interactive simulations, structured lab activities and supervised placements.
- By applying combined theoretical knowledge with practical skills during clinical placements.
To learn more, please visit the Centre for Experiential Learning.
Pre-clinical requirements
All accepted applicants are required to complete certain requirements prior to clinical placement and are responsible for the associated costs. Details about pre-placement requirements will be emailed to you once you accept your offer of admission.
Please note: If a student is unable to meet the Non-Academic Requirements for clinical placements, including immunization requirements, regardless of the reason, the placement setting may decline the request for placement as a result of the incomplete requirements. If there is an inability to complete the placement requirements of the program, progression in the program is not possible. For further details on specific requirements, please contact Preplacement Services at preplacementservices [at] mohawkcollege.ca (preplacementservices[at]mohawkcollege[dot]ca).
Professional Practice placements
The Personal Support Worker (PSW) Program includes one clinical placement in Semester 2, consisting of both group and preceptored placements. These placements may occur at sites not accessible by public transit. Students should plan to have access to a vehicle or arrange their own transportation to attend placements within our catchment area, which includes Hamilton, Brantford, Halton, Haldimand, Niagara, Norfolk, and surrounding regions.
Placements are assigned using randomization software, based on available options and student preferences. While we strive to accommodate preferences, it is not always logistically possible. Please note: once placements are finalized, they will not be changed.
Students are responsible for all travel arrangements and associated costs.
Placement Breakdown
- Group Clinical Placements: 2 days per week, starting as early as 6:00 AM, supervised by a Mohawk College Clinical Supervisor.
- Preceptored Clinical Placements: May include day, evening, night, and weekend shifts. Students must follow their preceptor’s schedule and be flexible with hours, as shifts are arranged by the placement facility.
To be eligible for clinical placement, students must successfully complete all theory courses and non-academic requirements (NARs) in Semester 1.
All students are required to complete a total of 280 clinical hours as part of the program requirements.
For more information, please contact the Field Placement Specialist at NsgPSWFPS [at] mohawkcollege.ca (NsgPSWFPS[at]mohawkcollege[dot]ca)
Successful Completion of Professional Practice
Successful completion of the clinical placement is required for graduation from the PSW Program. Placement agencies require a clear Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS).
To be eligible for placement, students must submit proof of a clear PRCSVS. This document will be retained in your departmental file and used solely for placement-related purposes.
Important: If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS, and, as a result, are unable to participate in placement, you will not be able to progress into the Professional Practice course. A Clear PRCVS, with an issue date no older then 5 months from your clinical start date.
Non-academic requirements (NARs)
Students are responsible to cover all costs associated with non-academic requirements (NARs). Students must have the following non-academic requirements (NARs) submitted by week 14 of the first semester.
- Vulnerable Sector Police Check (Clear PRCVS, issue date within 5 months of clinical start date)
- Immunizations - Tdap, Varicella, Hep B, MMR
- Tuberculin skin test (2 step within 5 months of clinical start date)
- Flu (Recommended, mandatory in some clinical settings)
- COVID-19 Vaccine
- Standard first aid and CPR-Level (BLS) Basic Life Support
- Mask fit
- WSIB Consent
- Fire safety
- WHMIS
- AODA
- Workplace violence and workplace harassment
- Worker health and safety awareness in 4 steps - BILL 18
- Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA®) in Dementia Care in-person is recommended and encouraged for PSW students
- Student consent and waiver for clinical placements
If the non-academic requirements (NARs) are not fulfilled on or before the deadline, we are not able to guarantee that students will receive a placement spot. If students miss the NARs deadline and do not receive a placement spot, they will be required to defer their clinical course and any co-requisites to the next semester.
To learn more, please visit the Centre for Experiential Learning.
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes, often referred to as ‘Program Standards', set out the essential learning that a student must achieve before being deemed ready to graduate.
In many cases these program learning outcomes were developed by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) in consultation with employers and educators who are experts in the program field. To ensure the outcomes remain current and in line with industry needs, we invite our employers, graduates working in the field and current students to re-examine and update them during regular, ongoing program review focus groups.
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Your future career options
- Personal Support Workers
Where you could work includes:
- Home Care Agencies and Long Term Care Homes
- Nursing and Residential Care Facilities
- Hospitals
Educational Pathways
Educational Pathways
Pathways to Mohawk
If you've successfully taken a course at another post-secondary institution, you may be able to earn course exemptions toward your credential here at Mohawk.
If you have successfully completed one of the following programs at Mohawk, you may be eligible to receive transfer credit in this program. To start a new program at Mohawk, you must apply via ontariocolleges.ca.
Transfer from
You can transfer to the Personal Support Worker - 110 from the following programs:
Career Pathways
Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas
Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees
Receiving Program
Personal Support Worker
Mohawk College makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of each transfer opportunity. Please note that changes may occur in program offerings, admission requirements, and transfer credits granted by the receiving institutions. We advise all students to check with the receiving institution directly for the most up-to-date information.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Search ONTransfer.ca for more pathways with Ontario public colleges and universities.
Mohawk College makes no warranty or endorsement of material contained within links to external websites, nor does the College assume any responsibility for the linked website or its contents.
Tech Requirements
Tech requirements
Minimum technical and software requirements for Online Learning courses
Computer and Internet Connection:
You will need regular access to a computer with an internet connection. High-speed broadband access (LAN, Cable or DSL) is highly recommended for the optimal learning experience. Some courses have more advanced system requirements.
Software:
- Individual courses may have additional software requirements. This may include video or audio playing software or a specific software application.
- Most courses require word processing software.
- In some instances, it may be necessary for some users to upgrade their Flash or Java versions.
- Please ensure you are using an updated web browser such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Firefox, as most videos and resources are compatible with these.
- This program uses online proctoring software for one or more assessment(s) to uphold academic quality and maintain academic integrity. This software requires students to turn on their video camera, present identification, monitor and record their computer activities, and/or lock/restrict their browser or other applications/software during online virtual tests, quizzes, or exams. The proctored software is required to be installed before the assessment begins. Additional information will be provided by your professor/instructor at the beginning of the term in your MyCanvas course regarding remote proctoring tools being used.
The following items may also be required for some courses:
- One of the following: Desktop/ laptop/ Chrome Book.
- Speakers/Headphones.
- Web Camera and Microphone.
Learning Management System:
Mohawk College uses Canvas as a Learning Management System (LMS). You will interact with this platform in all your course at Mohawk. Below is the Canvas community guide for browser requirements. To access press CTRL on your computer then click on the link. The link will walk you through computer specifications, Operating Systems, Internet speed, and screen readers needed to run Canvas both on your computer and a mobile device. Visit Canvas for more information.
Canvas student guide provides links and resources to help you navigate any issues you may have.
You can also visit the student tech support on your My Mohawk page or by pressing CTRL on your computer and clicking on the link below. Here you will find support for all Technological resources such as Zoom Web Conferencing, Office 365 and Mohawk Apps. Visit Student Techincal Support.
Additional Information
Additional Information
Other expenses:
Non-academic requirements (NARs), uniforms, textbooks and lab kits.
Contact Us
Contact us
Domestic Canadian Students
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International Students
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Contact our International Student Recruitment team for information on programs, how to apply, and student life.
Contact International
Email: intl.representatives@mohawkcollege.ca
Phone: 1-905-575-2254
Toll free phone numbers:
For general questions: 1-888-Mohawk9 (1-888-664-2959)
Contact International Admissions
Contact our Admissions advisors for help with your application.
Contact International Admissions
Phone: 1-905-575-2254
*Not all programs are international eligible. Please see our programs available for international students.
Accessible Learning Services
Are you a student with a confirmed or suspected disability? Visit our Accessible Learning Services website to discover how we can help you.
Program Support Contacts
- jordana.taylor [at] mohawkcollege.ca (Jordana Taylor)
- tiffany.iles [at] mohawkcollege.ca (Tiffany Iles)
- amber.skye [at] snpolytechnic.com (Amber Skye (Six Nations Brantford))
Canadian Domestic Students
International Students
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Future Ready Blogs
Living Classrooms: A Fusion of Theory and Practice
Compassion and Caring: A PSW's Story
Personal Support Worker earns trust with stellar care
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Program delivery
Learn about program delivery terms.
Please note: in-person, virtual, and hybrid classes vary according to the program and some programs may be in-person only. Refer to the Program Overview for more information.
