Everything You Need To Know About Online Distance PSW Courses in Canada

Ontario has 500, 000 online course registrations which are twice that of other provinces in Canada.

As of 2013, there were 18, 000 college and university courses with 1000 fully online programs available.

There are a wide variety of other educational institutions and course options that are currently available as well.

There are public colleges, private colleges, District school boards and many other organizations that offer courses.

Before examining the online and distance learning PSW programs offered in Ontario, it is important to understand what specifically, distance education is.

WHAT IS DISTANCE EDUCATION?

Essentially, distance learning can be defined as:

“A method of instruction and, learning that differs from a traditional approach as it involves students not being physically present in the classroom when material is being presented by a facilitator.”

Online and distance education courses can allow you to attend classes virtually from anywhere.

This is a great option for those who require flexibility with respect to their personal schedule.

By having the choice to pursue your education online or through distance courses you will have the latitude that you need which could potentially increase your chances of being successful academically.

The popularity of these types of courses is primarily increasing as a result of the high amount of accessibility it provides prospective students in addition to the lower participation costs it requires.

This article will provide you with an overview of the schools that offer online and distance programs throughout Ontario.

ADVANTAGES OF ONLINE AND DISTANCE EDUCATION

There are many benefits to enrolling in a program that is offered either online or through distance education.

Online PSW courses

Although the most obvious one is that it allows you to enjoy the flexibility of completing your classes according to your own schedule and lifestyle, there are other advantages as well.

  • Online courses provide seamless communication between students and teachers. There are also more opportunities for classmates to contact and subsequently communicate with one another in the event that their facilitator is unavailable for assistance.
  • Those who live in smaller, more remote areas have the option to pursue their education without being hindered by the distance they would have to travel to attend classes.
  • It allows a larger number of students to enroll as compared to traditional classroom settings. As a result, there are no constraints with respect to class size capacity.
  • Online classes allow individuals who are unable to attend traditional classrooms as a result of illness or being disabled, to pursue their education from their home.
  • It allows older and mature students the option to enjoy lifelong learning opportunities that would typically not be available to them.
  • The course completion rate is quite high. Statistical reports indicate that the completion of online courses in college institutions is 70% to 79% with a median level of 76% and university online courses boast a 95% successful completion rate.
  • Online programs often have lower fees and tuition rates than traditional courses.
  • Students can vary their workloads based on their personal schedules.

DEMO ONLINE COURSE

It is a good idea to see how a course is delivered online, especially if you have never taken one.

It is a completely different kind of learning experience and may take some time before you get used to it. It may also be a challenge if you’re not very computer savvy.

Here is a quick video demonstration of how a course is delivered online. This particular video uses Moodle, an online course delivery platform that many colleges use.

IS ONLINE LEARNING RIGHT FOR YOU?

Not everyone can learn online. It comes with its own set of challenges.

Here are a few things to consider before you make your decision:

  • You will be taking courses and studying virtually. This may cause you to feel isolated from the instructor and classmates.
  • You will have options to connect with your instructor and fellow students however help may not be readily available.
  • Not having proper hardware (computer) and software (programs) can make accessing courses frustrating.
  • Getting used to the online course delivery software can be challenging especially for those with beginner-level computer skills.

Studyonline is a great website that offers plenty of resources and links for taking courses online.

One of the tools available on this website is a quiz which can help you decide if online learning is for you or not.

It goes through a series of 17 questions and gives you a score out of 100.

Based on your score, it will tell you if online learning is right for you or not.

Are the Online PSW courses right for you?

Click here to take this quiz now!

This page will also give you many other tips on how to succeed while taking online courses.

You will find tips on:

  • How to make the most out of your online course?
  • How to succeed in an online course? and
  • How to manage your time well?

LIST OF COLLEGES 

Distance Education courses are offered in real-time via software-enhanced audio and video conferencing technology.

The following section will provide an overview of the information you will need to consider when deciding on a program offered through online and distance education.

Knowing the specifics of the curriculums with respect to program delivery, duration, fees, and contact information will help you to make a choice that will enable you to decide upon a program that is the best fit for you in terms of your lifestyle, budget, and schedule.

You have the option to access classes from the comfort of your home, any regional campus, or Contact the North site on a specific date and time each week.

NATIVE EDUCATION AND TRAINING COLLEGE

The Native Education & Training College is a non-profit post-secondary college.

It offers programs both online and through distance learning.

This program runs for 35 weeks and is offered both full-time and part-time.

Apart from all the necessary courses, this program also offers clinical practicum at the end of the program.

You can start this program at any time of the year. 

New classes begin every Monday. 

Admission Requirements

College Eligibility

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
  • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) Certificate; OR
  • General Educational Development (GED); OR
  • Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program).

Other Requirements

  • Students must be in good physical and mental condition and meet the same physical and immunization requirements as those for the staff employed by the agency/facility where the practicum is taking place
  • Complete immunization record including immunization against Hepatitis B.
  • Valid Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)-C for Health Care Provider (HCP) certificates

Police Record Check: A vulnerable sector screen/police record check is required. The police record check may have to be renewed every three to six months thereafter.

SAULT COLLEGE

This program is designed to provide students with theory-based knowledge and solid practical skills to meet the needs of future clients.

Upon graduation, you will possess the understanding of health-related subjects that will enable you to work confidently both in private residences and various health care facilities.

The curriculum also ensures that students are taught effective communication skills which are critical and necessary for all health care professionals.

It is offered part-time through distance learning options (Contact north) however there currently isn’t any OSAP funding available for those wishing to enroll in this program.

Programs

Sault College offers two programs. 

It is 1-year program and is offered completely online. 

Mode of DeliveryOnline
Program Length1 Year
Course LoadFull Time or Part Time
PracticumVaries
FeesVaries
IntakeFall and Winter

Admission Requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma with Grade 12 English (C) ENG4C, or mature student status.

As a mature student you have two options:

1. You can pay $25 to write the Canadian Academic Achievement Test (CAAT) for Math and/or English requirements only.

2. You can take get your high school equivalency by doing academic Upgrading for free.

Clinical Placement Requirements

  • Police Records Search (current within one year).
  • Standard First Aid/CPR (Health Care Provider) with AED
  • Immunization and Health Record Form including:

• Two-step Mantou test for Tuberculosis

• Immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella

• Current Tetanus-diphtheria

• Influenza vaccination

  • Statement of Confidentiality Form
  • Work Education Agreement Student Summary Sheet

Applications for this program are accepted through Ontario colleges. 

Click here to apply for this program. 

OTHER FREE PROGRAMS

There are several other free online training programs available. 

These are only meant to provide you additional training and enhance your skills. 

FREE TRAINING BY ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY OF TORONTO

The Alcheimer’s society of Toronto offers many free PSW training programs

These are short training modules and can be completed online at your convenience. 

This training is a great asset for all, espcially for those who works with clinets with dementia. 

Find out more details about this training program. 

ONLINE LEARNING CENTRES

Online learning centers are located across Ontario.

There are a total of 112 access centers in Ontario.

Click here to find out a center close to you.

Each of the 112 online learning centers has everything you need in order to succeed in the courses you have taken.

All centers are equipped with all the multimedia technologies that you will need to successfully complete your online courses.

PSW course through Online Learning Centres

You can use all these facilities to complete your coursework.

Each center is also fully staffed. They are always happy to assist you with:

  • Available courses and programs,
  • Registration into any of the courses or programs,
  • Financial aid options,
  • Referrals to community and employment agencies.
  • Support and encouragement throughout your education

The best part is…it is all FREE!

CONCLUSION

Deciding on the delivery type that best suits your need requires a clear understanding of the options available.

Your decision to enroll in a personal support program is both an important and integral part of the process that you will have to embark on when entering the field.

Therefore, ensuring that you have a solid education can be a determining factor in your ability to enjoy a fulfilling and successful career.

As evidenced in this article, online and distance learning options can provide you with the education you need to become a PSW without the constraints that traditional classroom teaching involves.

In this personal support worker program, you will learn to administer medications, collect specimens, and assist the client with bedside care, including ambulation, personal hygiene, dressing, and undressing; perform housekeeping duties; provide companionship for individuals and their families; provide informal counseling when necessary; observe and report any changes in the client’s condition or behavior, and more that relates to their daily living.

With several Ontario schools opting to examine methods to develop distance education curriculums for more of their courses, you now have more opportunities to pursue your studies.

Resources you’ll need to become a Personal Support Worker

On this page, you can find anything there is to know about how to become a personal support worker, how to succeed as one, and how to continue your education. This is the place to come to and look for all the PSW resources and information that you may need on your journey as a Personal Support Worker.

PSW job interview questions

If you’re determined to pass your next PSW interview with flying colors, we’re here to help. PSWHQ has put together a thorough online guide with PSW interview questions and appropriate sample answers to these questions that hit the target, and are concise and supportive.

Performing well in the interview is just one part of many others needed to secure a PSW Job. First and foremost, you’ll need to have an impeccable résumé and cover letter in order to be called for an interview. 

Guide to finding PSW jobs

After you have decided to become a Personal Support Worker and completed the course you are now at a point to start looking for work. It is important that you explore all the jobs listed under different job titles, which is why you should go through our ultimate guide to finding PSW jobs.

We also help you find PSW job postings from hospitals, long-term care homes, and community and private settings. 

Advertising with PSWHQ

Over the past few years, PSWHQ has achieved a dominant ranking in major search engines such as Google and Bing. As a result, we offer a limited number of advertising opportunities to individuals, colleges, companies, and organizations we see as a good fit for the unique audience of PSWHQ.

FAQs

1. How long is PSW course in Ontario?

The PSW course in Ontario is about six months long. The Ontario College Application Service (OCAS) is the only way to register for the program. There are 6,000 additional students who will be able to take advantage of the tuition-free program, which will be completed in six months rather than the usual eight months.

2. What are the requirements for PSW in Ontario?

If you want to become a Personal Support Worker (PSW) in Ontario, you must complete a PSW program and obtain a diploma from an institution accredited by the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities.

 

Some of these institutions include:

  • Public and community colleges.
  • Private career colleges.
  • School boards.

3. Are PSW in Ontario getting a raise?

The salary rise for personal support workers in Ontario has been extended through March 31, 2022, according to the provincial government. This temporary salary increase includes a $3 per hour wage increase for personal support employees in long-term care facilities and a $2 per hour wage increase for support staff in hospitals.

4. Where can PSW work in Ontario?

A PSW can work in Ontario at any of the following:

  • Assisting clients in Intensive Care Hospitals
  • Subacute Care Facilities, such as Convalescent Care Facilities.
  • Institutions for mental health.
  • Rehabilitation Facilities.
  • Long-term patient care (nursing homes).
  • At hospice care facilities.
  • Recuperative personal care.

5. Is there an exam for PSW in Ontario?

Yes, there is such a thing. All students enrolled in the PSW program are required to take the NACC exam at the conclusion of the program.

Share your love
Avlin
Avlin

Avlin is passionate about helping aspirants become better personal support workers. He is an entrepreneur and runs a clinic in Toronto.

Articles: 226

25 Comments

  1. I’m interested in taking a psw worker corse online ,, could you please let me no how I go about doing this ,, thank you ,, Kim

  2. hello I’m saarangan I’m interested in this course. How to do this course. please have inform it.

    • Treza, you can apply for the PSW program by all means. Kindly check with the institution/organization you are planning to attend.
      Do let us know where you decided to pursue your PSW course.
      All the best!

  3. This is a terrific idea. I’ve worked in the PSW field, while being trained using OTJ methods. People can effectively learn this way; I’ve taken a full program on-line and as long as you are organized and committed, you can thrive through on-line programs. Thank you so much for sending me this link. For others wondering how to apply, each segment offers information pertaining to further information and contacts. Good luck to everyone!

    • Lee…you’re right, being organized and staying focussed plays a huge role in successfully completing online courses.
      Staying motivated is also important.
      Online learning is like an endurance sport. When you’re feeling burned out and tired of staring at a screen, don’t slack. The key to online class success: never give up.

  4. Wow! This opportunity is amazing. It gives PSW working for decades without proper certification, the option of earning certification. They will be more assertive and less focus on seniority. Good stuff! Thanks for the info. For sure I can tell others about it!

  5. I would like to talk to someone about the courses you offer. Can I get a phone call?

    519-255-1441

  6. I live in NL . Can i take this free Psw course online only and work in Newfound land

  7. I am taking a Health Care Aide course in Manitoba but eill br moving to Ontario once I have completed the course.
    Are the current 2019 Health care aide course outlines in Manitoba equivilent to PSW courses in Ontario to directly transfer to be qualified to work in a long term care home?

  8. Hi. I have done Health care aide course from Manitoba. Can I work in Ontario as a PSW? Please let me know. Thanks

    • Hello Beant,
      You can still apply for PSW jobs in long-term care facilities in Ontario.

      Here are the three stipulations:

      You must have obtained a PSW equivalent diploma from another province:
      the program must be 600 hours in duration, including both the in-class and practicum.
      You must provide a copy of the certificate/diploma to your employer, and
      your hiring is based on the hiring manager’s discretion such that he or she believes that you have a reasonable set of skills required to perform the PSW duties.

      You can view this post for more details.
      Avtar

  9. What are the best PSW courses on line that will qualify with Cnd. Immigraiton if field pratice is allowed in our home country? Need 800 hours. If field placement not allowed in home country which psw program on line is the best to get as much of the 800 hours as possible? Thank you.

    • Bev…There may be some programs that meet the requirements for Canadian Immigration. It is best that you seek the assistance of an Immigration consultant.

  10. Can I bridge to PN or RPN studying online at one of the colleges as. I know some colleges allow you to bridge after you graduated but not sure if this is the same studying online.

    • Dee…there are many options for you to become a Practical Nurse. There are seven Community Colleges in Ontario that offer bridging programs for Personal Support Workers.
      Click here to view complete details about these programs.

  11. I am on visa for 6 months as my daughter and son are Permanent residents. My daughter is suffering from lymphoma. So I want to do this course.i want to work as Psw In canada.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *