Certificate Program · Healthcare
Personal Support Worker Certificate
Turn Your Passion for Helping Others into a Rewarding Profession
Elite College’s Personal Support Worker (PSW) Diploma prepares compassionate, career-focused individuals for one of Ontario’s most in-demand healthcare roles. This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical placement, teaching students how to assist clients with daily living activities, personal care, mobility support, and basic health monitoring in home care, long-term care, and hospital settings.
28 Weeks
Duration
Hybrid
Delivery
400 Theory + 300 Practical
Training Hours
Certificate
Credential
About the Program
One of the Most Rewarding Careers in Ontario Healthcare
The curriculum covers body mechanics, infection control, nutrition, communication skills, and understanding of common health conditions affecting seniors and individuals with disabilities. Students also learn client-centered care principles and professional documentation standards required across Ontario’s healthcare system. With an aging population and growing healthcare needs across the province, PSWs are urgently needed in hospitals, retirement homes, long-term care facilities, and home care agencies.
Elite College’s supportive learning environment, experienced healthcare instructors, and real-world clinical placements ensure graduates are job-ready from day one. This diploma is an excellent entry point into healthcare for career changers, newcomers to Canada, and recent graduates alike, and may qualify for funding through Ontario’s Second Career program. Start a meaningful, stable career helping others, enroll in Elite College’s Personal Support Worker Diploma program today.
Funding Support
Government Incentives & Financial Aid
The Government of Ontario has introduced incentives to support students entering the PSW field.
Our team will guide you in accessing the government incentives and financial aid you may be eligible for — so you can focus on your future, not the finances.
Learn from Nurses
Taught by Working Registered Nurses
All our instructors are currently working Registered Nurses (RNs), bringing today’s real-world experience straight to your training.
- Learn the exact skills Ontario healthcare employers want
- Practise with equipment used in real clinics and care homes
- Build confidence with a “see one, do one, teach one” approach
What You'll Learn
Everything You Need to Care with Confidence
A curriculum designed to prepare you to enter the workforce in a compassionate, knowledgeable, and professional capacity.
Key Learning Areas
Role of the PSW
Your responsibilities, boundaries, and place within the healthcare team.
Health, Safety & Mobility
Keeping clients and yourself safe, and assisting with safe movement.
Care for Patients
Delivering respectful, person-centred care every day.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Communicating clearly with clients, families, and the care team.
Health Conditions
Understanding common health conditions and how they affect care.
Caring for Vulnerable Populations
Supporting seniors, persons with disabilities, and people in recovery.
Practical Care Skills
Care & Companionship
Supporting individuals and families during illness, recovery, or transition.
Bedside & Personal Care
Assisting with mobility, bathing, dressing, and hygiene needs.
Meal Preparation & Feeding
Preparing nutritious meals and accommodating dietary requirements.
Health-Related Duties
Medication assistance, non-sterile dressing changes, and specimen collection under supervision.
Household Assistance
Light housekeeping and laundry for a safe, comfortable living environment.
300 Hours Practical Experience
Supervised practical experience working directly in real care environments.
Why Choose This Program
Why Choose Elite College?
If you are compassionate, caring, and want to make a difference, this is your pathway to a fulfilling career.
Registered Nurse Instructors
Learn from working RNs and veteran PSWs who teach real-world skills, not just textbooks.
Hands-On Training
Practise in simulated healthcare environments with hospital-grade equipment.
300 Hours Supervised Practical
Work directly in real care environments before you graduate.
Small Class Sizes
Personalized support throughout your program.
Funding Guidance
Help accessing government incentives and financial aid.
Flexible Hybrid Learning
Blended classroom and online learning over 28 weeks.
Career Opportunities
Strong Job Prospects in Ontario Healthcare
With Ontario’s healthcare sector facing urgent demand for PSWs, this program opens the door to a stable, meaningful career.
Personal Support Worker
Home Support Worker
Nursing Assistant
Caregiver in Long-Term Care
Health Aide in Private Homes
Hospice Care Worker
Palliative Care Assistant
Community Health Support
Where You Can Work
Student Stories
What Our PSW Students Say
“I had an amazing experience studying as a PSW student at Elite College. The program was comprehensive, practical, and truly prepared me for the realities of working in healthcare. My instructor was knowledgeable and passionate about the subject.”
“An awesome school that helps me a lot! My professor teaches the practical lessons in detail — she gives us real situations to discuss in groups first, then teaches us what we missed and what’s important.”
“Thank you Elite College for the nice and learnable experience. Special thanks to the principal for the inspiring leadership, and to the staff for their constant support and care. Highly recommended school!”
Financial Aid
Financial Barriers Shouldn’t Hold You Back
Eligible students may qualify for government funding, grants, or fee discounts. Our team will help you explore your options and guide you through the process.
OSAP
Ontario Student Assistance Program for eligible students.
Better Jobs Ontario
Funding support for eligible career changers.
CTC
Ask our advisors about CTC eligibility.
Flexible Payment Plans
Spread your tuition into manageable payments.
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Get the Complete Course Outline
Please enter your details below to receive the complete course outline, upcoming start dates and financial aid options.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the PSW program?
The program runs for 28 weeks, with 400 hours of theory and 300 hours of practical experience.
How is the program delivered?
Hybrid — blended classroom and online learning, plus supervised practical placement.
What credential will I receive?
A Personal Support Worker Certificate. This program is approved as a vocational program under the ontario career colleges act, 2005.
Do I need healthcare experience?
No. We train you from the ground up — all you need is the heart to care.
Where are classes held?
The program is delivered at our Richmond Hill campus, 9861 Leslie St, Richmond Hill, Ontario.
Where can I work after graduating?
Long-term care and retirement homes, hospitals and rehabilitation centres, community health agencies, private home care, assisted living, and hospice and palliative care.
Is funding available?
Eligible students may qualify for government incentives and financial aid, including OSAP, Better Jobs Ontario, CTC, and flexible payment plans. Our team will guide you.
How do I apply?
Click Apply Now or call (905) 554-8882 for start dates and admissions information. Seats are limited.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Our Admissions team is here to support you and ensure that your academic and career goals become a reality. Contact us today and take the first step towards a brighter future!