Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program
(AWCCA)
(C137)
-
Program Name:
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate
- Code: C137
-
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
-
Method of Study:
Full-time
-
Duration:
2 years (4 semesters)
- Centre:
- School: Social & Community Services
- Location: St. James Campus
- Starting Months: September
-
Domestic Tuition:
$3,722.00 * †
-
Experiential Learning:
Field Placement
Compare up to 3 programs
Overview
Leadership Claims
Preparing graduates to work as Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocates since 1986.
This program is unique in Canada.
Program Overview
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist, anti-racist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence. It trains students to be agents for change in their work in community education, political action and law reform, and prepares them to provide anti-oppressive counselling and advocacy for self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Full Description
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist, anti-racist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence experienced primarily by self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors. It trains students to be agents for change in their work of community education, political action and law reform, and prepares them to provide anti-oppressive counselling for survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Note: Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take up to four months, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law. The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student. Students are responsible for ensuring that the check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).” Students who are unable to provide a clear police reference check may find that their choice of placements is limited.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an important role in this program by preparing students to work with those affected by gender-based violence. It including those directly impacted, and the communities within which they live and work and often encompasses those who identify as trans and non-binary, and other disenfranchised populations.
In year one, students take a class called Preparation for the Field, which includes introductory activities to the field, such as:
- interviewing staff during an agency visit
- conducting research
- participating in fundraising and special events
- learning about how programs and services are developed
In second year, students will build on their learning by engaging in:
- more direct one-on-one survivor counselling
- group facilitation
- case management and advocacy
Placements begin in September and continue through to the end of April for approximately 400 hours. Students will often do this placement at emergency shelters, rape crisis centres, youth services, health providers and other agencies who provide front-line support.
Field placement agencies are very similar to those employing our graduates. In many instances, employers hire graduates because of contact and experience with them through the fieldwork placement. Most agencies are within Toronto, while some agencies in the Greater Toronto Area and other locations in Ontario and Canada provide students with placement opportunities.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Apply a feminist analysis in all areas of their work in the field of violence against women and children.
- Provide ongoing supportive counselling.
- Provide individual advocacy and political advocacy services.
- Facilitate groups for women and children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of existing services for women.
- Cope with high-stress work demands and develop strategies for personal survival on the job.
- Develop and deliver prevention programs.
- Organize fundraising and write applications and proposals for grants.
- Utilize the media and organize community response to violence against women and children.
- Become familiar with pertinent legislation and understand the process of formulating social policy.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN 1020 | Introduction to Feminist Counselling |
| GSSC 1107 | Feminism and Social Justice Movements |
| WOMN 1034 | The Structure of Privilege and Oppression |
| WOMN 1035 | Integrative Seminar I |
| WOMN 1050 | Digital Technology: Violence & Justice Issues |
| COMM 1007 | College English |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN 1011 | Gender-Based Violence |
| COUN 1014 | Group Process |
| GHUM 1082 | Disability Justice |
| WOMN 1037 | Integrative Seminar II |
| WOMN 1072 | Preparation for the Field |
| WOMN 1073 | Child and Youth Development |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| WOMN 1074 | Feminist Counselling and Advocacy |
| WOMN 1075 | Group Process II |
| WOMN 1083 | Children & Youth II |
| WOMN 2029 | Feminist Political Action I |
| WOMN 2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN 2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN 2016 | Survivors of Sexual Violence II |
| WOMN 2032 | Feminist Political Action II |
| WOMN 2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN 2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN 2043 | Group Process III |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
AWCCA graduates work in a variety of settings, including women’s transition and interval houses, rape crisis centres, community health centres, settlement services, community centres and victim/witness programs.
Educational Pathways
Graduates may apply for accelerated entry in the following related George Brown College programs
- Social Service Worker (Accelerated) (C135)
- Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) (C153)
- Community Worker (Accelerated) (C131)
- Early Childhood Education (Accelerated) (C130)
See Transfer Guide.
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
† The fees for the reference checks vary and are not included in the tuition. They are to be paid seperately by the student.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
How to Qualify and Apply
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- All applicants are required to attend an online information session. You can register for an information session by visiting C137 Info Session page. Please email awcca@georgebrown.ca if you cannot attend the online information session. During the online information session you will learn more about the AWCCA program and receive a short digital questionnaire to be completed and returned via email within three days of your session. Information about where and how to return the questionnaire will be provided at the information session.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take several weeks, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
Students without a clear police reference check may find that their choice of placement is limited. Students in this situation are encouraged to work with the field education coordinator to identify placement opportunities that do not require the vulnerable sector check. Students are also encouraged to inquire and apply for Suppression and Destruction of Record or Record Suspension (formerly known Pardon) at their specific regional police services, in order to prepare for their future career or employment. For more information, please visit the Clinical Pre-placement website.
Bridging
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review. Direct entry to Second-Year Option is closed for 2021–2022 academic year.
The AWCCA program has an individualized direct entry to Second-Year Option for eligible students who have undergraduate degrees or diplomas. Please visit the Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor Advocate Direct Entry to Second-Year Option page.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Student Success
"Prior to discovering the AWCCA program, I knew that I wanted to gain more hands-on experience working with women and as a counsellor. I was excited to learn it was based in feminist analysis with an Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression lens. I learned so much about myself, my own privilege and oppression as well as how I can be an ally. I am now working the job of my dreams, managing a culturally sensitive women’s shelter for Indigenous and all women in Northern Ontario. From that perspective, I can also say that I look for women who have graduated from this program to work in the field of ending violence against women, over others who graduated from the SSW program. Courses like Survivors of Sexual Violence, Feminist Counselling, Working with Abused Women and Child Witness really set this program apart from others designed to lead to work in this field. The experience I gained via my student placements made me employable straight out of school. This course literally changed my life, personally and professionally; I know it will do the same for future graduates.”
“I entered this program not knowing what to expect, but knowing what I wanted to learn from it and do when I graduated. The incredibly knowledgeable and supportive program faculty prepared me beyond my expectations. I now have the job of my dreams and I am confident in my skills as a Crisis Intervention Counsellor at a shelter for abused women and their children. There is never a day that I don’t look forward to going to work. I have the program and the teachers to thank for this!”
Contact Us
Call the Assaulted Women’s and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program office at 416-415-5000, ext. 2323 or email awcca@georgebrown.ca.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program Coordinator
Anna Willats: 416-415-5000, ext. 3643
Email: awillats@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program
(AWCCA)
(C137)
-
Program Name:
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate
- Code: C137
-
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
-
Method of Study:
Full-time
-
Duration:
2 years (4 semesters)
- Centre:
- School: Social & Community Services
- Location: St. James Campus
- Starting Months: September
-
Domestic Tuition:
$3,914.00 *
-
Experiential Learning:
Field Placement
-
Fall 2021 Delivery:
Semester 1, 3: Online
Compare up to 3 programs
Overview
Leadership Claims
Preparing graduates to work as Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocates for 30 years.
This program is unique in Canada.
Program Overview
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist, anti-racist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence. It trains students to be agents for change in their work in community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling and advocacy for self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Full Description
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review and development. Please note there will be changes in the 2020-2021 course offerings.
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist, anti-racist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence experienced primarily by self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors. It trains students to be agents for change in their work of community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling for survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Note: Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take up to four months, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law. The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student. Students are responsible for ensuring that the check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).” Students who are unable to provide a clear police reference check may find that their choice of placements is limited.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an important role in this program by preparing students to work with those affected by gender-based violence, including not only those directly impacted, but the communities within which they live and work. This often includes those who identify as trans and non-binary, and other disenfranchised populations.
In year one, students will take a class called Preparation for the Field, which will include introductory activities to the field, such as interviewing staff during an agency visit, conducting research, participating in fundraising and special events, and learning about how programs and services are developed. Students will assess their skills and identify options for a placement in the second year that will give them experience in providing front-line services and responding to systemic issues.
In second year, students will build on that experience by engaging in more direct one-on-one survivor counselling, group facilitation, case management and advocacy. Placements begin in September and continue through to the end of April for a minimum of 500 hours. Students will often do this placement at emergency shelters, rape crisis centres, youth services, health providers and other agencies who provide front-line support.
The agencies used by the program for field placements are very similar to those employing our graduates. In many instances, employers hire graduates because of contact and experience with them through the fieldwork placement. Most agencies are within Toronto, while some agencies, located in other communities such as Brampton, St. Catharines, London, Hamilton, Barrie, Pickering and Oshawa, provide students who live in those communities with placement opportunities.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Apply a feminist analysis in all areas of their work in the field of violence against women and children.
- Provide ongoing supportive counselling.
- Provide individual advocacy and political advocacy services
- Facilitate groups for women and children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of existing services for women.
- Cope with high stress work demands and develop strategies for personal survival on the job.
- Develop and deliver prevention programs.
- Organize fundraising and write applications and proposals for grants.
- Utilize the media and organize community response to violence against women and children.
- Become familiar with pertinent legislation and understand the process of formulating social policy.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSSC 1107 | Introduction to Feminism and Social Justice Movements |
| COUN 1020 | Introduction to Feminist Counselling |
| COMM 1007 | College English |
| WOMN 1034 | The Structure of Privilege and Oppression |
| WOMN 1035 | Integrative Seminar I |
| WOMN 1050 | Digital Technology: Violence & Justice Issues |
| COMM 1003 | English Foundations |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN 1011 | Gender-Based Violence |
| COUN 1014 | Group Process I |
| WOMN 1073 | Child and Youth I |
| WOMN 1072 | Preparation for the Field |
| WOMN 1037 | Integrative Seminar II |
| GHUM 1082 | Disability Justice |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| WOMN 1074 | Feminist Counselling & Advocacy |
| WOMN 1075 | Group Process II |
| WOMN 1083 | Children & Youth II |
| WOMN 2029 | Feminist Political Action I |
| WOMN 2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN 2041 | Field Placement II |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN 2016 | Survivors of Sexual Violence |
| WOMN 2043 | Group Process III |
| WOMN 2032 | Feminist Political Action II |
| WOMN 2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN 2041 | Field Placement II |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
AWCCA graduates work in a variety of settings, including women’s transition and interval houses, rape crisis centres, women’s health centres, settlement services, community centres and victim/witness programs.
Educational Pathways
Graduates may apply for fast-track entry (reduced time) in the following related George Brown College programs
- Social Service Worker (Fast-Track) (C135)
- Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) (C153)
- Community Worker (Fast-Track) (C131)
- Early Childhood Education (Fast-Track) (C130)
See Transfer Guide.
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
How to Qualify and Apply
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- All applicants are required to attend an online information session. You can register for an information session by visiting C137 Info Session page Please email awcca@georgebrown.ca if you cannot attend the online information session. During the online information session you will learn more about the AWCCA program and receive a short digital questionnaire to be completed and returned via email within three days of your session. Information about where and how to return the questionnaire will be provided at the information session.
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take several weeks, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
Bridging
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review. Direct Entry to Second Year Option is closed for 2020-2021 Academic Year.
The AWCCA program has an individualized Direct Entry to Second Year Option for eligible students who have undergraduate degrees or diplomas. Please visit the Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor Advocate Direct Entry to Second Year Option page.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Student Success
"Prior to discovering the AWCCA program, I knew that I wanted to gain more hands-on experience working with women and as a counsellor. I was excited to learn it was based in feminist analysis with an Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression lens. I learned so much about myself, my own privilege and oppression as well as how I can be an ally. I am now working the job of my dreams, managing a culturally sensitive women’s shelter for Indigenous and all women in Northern Ontario. From that perspective, I can also say that I look for women who have graduated from this program to work in the field of ending violence against women, over others who graduated from the SSW program. Courses like Survivors of Sexual Violence, Feminist Counselling, Working with Abused Women and Child Witness really set this program apart from others designed to lead to work in this field. The experience I gained via my student placements made me employable straight out of school. This course literally changed my life, personally and professionally; I know it will do the same for future graduates.”
“I entered this program not knowing what to expect, but knowing what I wanted to learn from it and do when I graduated. The incredibly knowledgeable and supportive program faculty prepared me beyond my expectations. I now have the job of my dreams and I am confident in my skills as a Crisis Intervention Counsellor at a shelter for abused women and their children. There is never a day that I don’t look forward to going to work. I have the program and the teachers to thank for this!”
Contact Us
Call the Assaulted Women’s and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program office at 416-415-5000, ext. 2323 or email awcca@georgebrown.ca.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program Coordinator
Anna Willats: 416-415-5000, ext. 3643
Email: awillats@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program
(AWCCA)
(C137)
-
Program Name:
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate
- Code: C137
-
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
-
Method of Study:
Full-time
-
Duration:
2 years (4 semesters)
- Centre:
- School: Social & Community Services
- Location: St. James Campus
- Starting Months: September
-
Domestic Tuition:
$3,741.00 *
-
Experiential Learning:
Field Placement
-
Fall 2020 Delivery Method:
Online (on-campus activities will resume as soon as it is safe to do so)
Compare up to 3 programs
Overview
Leadership Claims
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review and development. Please note there will be changes in the 2020-2021 course offerings.
Preparing graduates to work as Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocates for 30 years.
This program is unique in Canada.
Program Overview
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence. It trains students to be agents for change in their work in community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling and advocacy for self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Full Description
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the planned delivery of this program starting in September 2020 will be online with alternate hybrid delivery embedded into the field placement experience.
PLEASE NOTE: In response to this evolving situation, the delivery, learning activities and evaluation methods may be further modified mid-semester.
Learners will require access to high-speed internet, a computer with a built-in or external web camera, a microphone and Google Chrome or Firefox as a web browser.
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review and development. Please note there will be changes in the 2020-2021 course offerings.
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence experienced primarily by self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors. It trains students to be agents for change in their work of community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling for survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Note: Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take up to four months, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law. The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student. Students are responsible for ensuring that the check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).” Students who are unable to provide a clear police reference check may find that their choice of placements is limited.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an important role in this program by preparing students to work with those affected by gender-based violence including not only those directly impacted, but the communities within which they live and work. This often includes those who identify as trans and non-binary, and other disenfranchised populations.
In year one, students will spend 250 hours with a non-profit community partner (Mondays and Tuesdays, January – April) and will typically engage in introductory activities, such as shadowing staff, conducting outreach, fundraising and special events, and learning about how programs and services are developed. First-year placements vary and can include sites that focus on public education, food banks, drop-ins and political action work, but are generally not frontline positions.
In second year, students will build on that experience by engaging in more direct 1-to-1 survivor counselling, group facilitation, case management, and advocacy. Placements begin in September and continue through to the end of April for a minimum of 500 hours. Students will often do this placement at emergency shelters, rape crisis centres, youth services, health providers and other agencies who provide frontline support.
The agencies used by the program for field placements are very similar to those employing our graduates. In many instances, employers hire graduates because of contact and experience with them through the fieldwork placement. Most agencies are within Toronto, while some agencies, located in other communities such as Brampton, St. Catherines, London, Hamilton, Barrie, Pickering and Oshawa, provide students who live in those communities with placement opportunities.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Apply a feminist analysis in all areas of their work in the field of violence against women and children.
- Provide ongoing supportive counselling.
- Provide individual advocacy and political advocacy services
- Facilitate groups for women and children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of existing services for women.
- Cope with high stress work demands and develop strategies for personal survival on the job.
- Develop and deliver prevention programs.
- Organize fundraising and write applications and proposals for grants.
- Utilize the media and organize community response to violence against women and children.
- Become familiar with pertinent legislation and understand the process of formulating social policy.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSSC1107 | Introduction to Feminism and Social Justice Movements |
| COUN1020 | Introduction to Feminist Counselling |
| COUN1014 | Group Process I |
| COMM1007 | College English |
| PSY1054 | Child and Youth Development |
| WOMN1034 | Gender, Race and Class: The Structure of Privilege and Oppression |
| WOMN1035 | Integrative Seminar I |
| WOMN1048 | Technology & Gender: Digital Relations |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN1011 | Gender Based Violence I |
| COUN1026 | Child Witness |
| COMM1034 | Professional Communications I |
| GSSC1023 | Psychology of Sex and Gender |
| WOMN1014 | Fieldwork Seminar I |
| WOMN1037 | Integrative Seminar II |
| WOMN1016 | Field Placement I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN2014 | Survivors of Sexual Violence I |
| COUN1013 | Feminist Counselling & Advocacy |
| WOMN2029 | Feminist Political Action and Community Development I |
| COUN2015 | Group Process II |
| WOMN2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN2030 | Integrative Seminar III |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN2013 | Children Experiencing Violence |
| COUN2016 | Survivors of Sexual Violence II |
| WOMN2032 | Feminist Political Action and Community Development II |
| COUN2017 | Group Process III |
| WOMN2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN2033 | Integrative Seminar IV |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
AWCCA graduates work in a variety of settings, including women’s transition and interval houses, rape crisis centres, women’s health centres, settlement services, community centres and victim/witness programs.
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2019. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2020 and at later dates.
The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student.
International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
How to Qualify and Apply
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- All applicants are required to attend an online information session.
You can register for an information session by visiting C137 Info Session page
Please email awcca@georgebrown.ca if you cannot attend the online information session.
During the online information session you will learn more about the AWCCA program and receive a short digital questionnaire to be completed and returned via email within 3 days of your session. Information about where and how to return the questionnaire will be provided at the information session.
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take several weeks, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
Bridging
Note: This program is undergoing curriculum review. Direct Entry to Second Year Option is closed for 2020-2021 Academic Year.
The AWCCA program has an individualized Direct Entry to Second Year Option for eligible students who have undergraduate degrees or diplomas. Please visit the Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor Advocate Direct Entry to Second Year Option page.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Student Success
"Prior to discovering the AWCCA program, I knew that I wanted to gain more hands-on experience working with women and as a counsellor. I was excited to learn it was based in feminist analysis with an Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression lens. I learned so much about myself, my own privilege and oppression as well as how I can be an ally. I am now working the job of my dreams, managing a culturally sensitive women’s shelter for Indigenous and all women in Northern Ontario. From that perspective, I can also say that I look for women who have graduated from this program to work in the field of ending violence against women, over others who graduated from the SSW program. Courses like Survivors of Sexual Violence, Feminist Counselling, Working with Abused Women and Child Witness really set this program apart from others designed to lead to work in this field. The experience I gained via my student placements made me employable straight out of school. This course literally changed my life, personally and professionally; I know it will do the same for future graduates.”
“I entered this program not knowing what to expect, but knowing what I wanted to learn from it and do when I graduated. The incredibly knowledgeable and supportive program faculty prepared me beyond my expectations. I now have the job of my dreams and I am confident in my skills as a Crisis Intervention Counsellor at a shelter for abused women and their children. There is never a day that I don’t look forward to going to work. I have the program and the teachers to thank for this!”
Contact Us
Call the Assaulted Women’s and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program office at 416-415-5000, ext. 2323 or email awcca@georgebrown.ca.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program Coordinator
Anna Willats: 416-415-5000, ext. 3643
Email: awillats@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.
Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Program (C137)
-
Program Name:
Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate
- Code: C137
-
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
-
Method of Study:
Full-time
-
Duration:
2 years (4 semesters)
- Centre:
- School: Social & Community Services
- Location: St. James Campus
- Starting Months: September
-
Domestic Tuition:
$4,029.00 *
-
Experiential Learning:
Field Placement
Compare up to 3 programs
Overview
Leadership Claims
Preparing graduates to work as Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocates for 30 years.
This program is unique in Canada.
Program Overview
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence. It trains students to be agents for change in their work of community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling and advocacy for self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Full Description
The Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program provides students with a feminist analysis of the political and counselling issues related to gender-based violence experienced primarily by self-identified women, children, trans and non-binary survivors. It trains students to be agents for change in their work of community education, political action and law reform. It prepares students to provide anti-oppressive counselling for survivors who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence.
Note: Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take up to four months, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law. The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student. Students are responsible for ensuring that the check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).” Students who are unable to provide a clear police reference check may find that their choice of placements is limited.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an important role in this program by preparing students to work with those affected by gender-based violence including not only those directly impacted, but the communities within which they live and work. This often includes those who identify as trans and non-binary, and other disenfranchised populations.
In year one, students will spend 250 hours with a non-profit community partner (Mondays and Tuesdays, January – April) and will typically engage in introductory activities, such as shadowing staff, conducting outreach, fundraising and special events, and learning about how programs and services are developed. First year placements vary and can include sites that focus on public education, food banks, drop-ins and political action work, but are generally not frontline positions.
In second year, students will build on that experience by engaging in more direct 1-to-1 survivor counselling, group facilitation, case management, and advocacy. Placements begin in September and continue through to the end of April for a minimum of 500 hours. Students will often do this placement at emergency shelters, rape crisis centres, youth services, health providers and other agencies who provide frontline support.
The agencies used by the program for field placements are very similar to those employing our graduates. In many instances, employers hire graduates because of contact and experience with them through the fieldwork placement. Most agencies are within Toronto, while some agencies, located in other communities such as Brampton, St. Catherines, London, Hamilton, Barrie, Pickering and Oshawa, provide students who live in those communities with placement opportunities.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Apply a feminist analysis in all areas of their work in the field of violence against women and children.
- Provide ongoing supportive counselling.
- Provide individual advocacy and political advocacy services
- Facilitate groups for women and children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of existing services for women.
- Cope with high stress work demands and develop strategies for personal survival on the job.
- Develop and deliver prevention programs.
- Organize fundraising and write applications and proposals for grants.
- Utilize the media and organize community response to violence against women and children.
- Become familiar with pertinent legislation and understand the process of formulating social policy.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSSC1107 | Introduction to Feminism |
| COUN1020 | Introduction to Feminist Counselling |
| COUN1014 | Group Process I |
| COMM1007 | College English |
| PSY1054 | Child and Youth Development |
| WOMN1034 | Gender, Race and Class: The Structure of Privilege and Oppression |
| WOMN1035 | Integrative Seminar I |
| WOMN1048 | Digital Technology for Classroom and Community |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN1011 | Gender Based Violence I |
| COUN1026 | Child Witness |
| COMM1034 | Professional Communications I |
| GSSC1023 | Psychology of Women |
| WOMN1014 | Fieldwork Seminar I |
| WOMN1037 | Integrative Seminar II |
| WOMN1016 | Field Placement I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN2014 | Survivors of Sexual Violence I |
| COUN1013 | Gender Based Violence II |
| WOMN2029 | Feminist Political Action and Community Development I |
| COUN2015 | Group Process II |
| WOMN2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN2030 | Integrative Seminar III |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COUN2013 | Children Experiencing Violence |
| COUN2016 | Survivors of Sexual Violence II |
| WOMN2032 | Feminist Political Action and Community Development II |
| COUN2017 | Group Process III |
| WOMN2042 | Fieldwork Seminar II |
| WOMN2041 | Field Placement II |
| WOMN2033 | Integrative Seminar IV |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates work in a variety of settings, including women’s transition and interval houses, rape crisis centres, women’s health centres, settlement services, community centres and victim/witness programs.
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.
The fees for the reference checks vary and must be paid by the student.
International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
How to Qualify and Apply
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Mandatory information session
- Questionnaire
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Some of our student placement partners require students in this program to have a police reference check completed before their field placement. These reference checks, which can take several weeks, are done to protect the clientele of these agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
Bridging
The AWCCA program has an individualized Direct Entry to Second Year Option for eligible students who have undergraduate degrees or diplomas. Please visit the Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor Advocate Direct Entry to Second Year Option page.
How to Apply
Apply To
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Student Success
"Prior to discovering the AWCCA program, I knew that I wanted to gain more hands-on experience working with women and as a counsellor. I was excited to learn it was based in feminist analysis with an Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression lens. I learned so much about myself, my own privilege and oppression as well as how I can be an ally. I am now working the job of my dreams, managing a culturally sensitive women’s shelter for Indigenous and all women in Northern Ontario. From that perspective, I can also say that I look for women who have graduated from this program to work in the field of ending violence against women, over others who graduated from the SSW program. Courses like Survivors of Sexual Violence, Feminist Counselling, Working with Abused Women and Child Witness really set this program apart from others designed to lead to work in this field. The experience I gained via my student placements made me employable straight out of school. This course literally changed my life, personally and professionally; I know it will do the same for future graduates.”
“I entered this program not knowing what to expect, but knowing what I wanted to learn from it and do when I graduated. The incredibly knowledgeable and supportive program faculty prepared me beyond my expectations. I now have the job of my dreams and I am confident in my skills as a Crisis Intervention Counsellor at a shelter for abused women and their children. There is never a day that I don’t look forward to going to work. I have the program and the teachers to thank for this!”
Contact Us
Call the Assaulted Women’s and Children's Counsellor/Advocate program office at 416-415-5000, ext. 6834 or email awcca@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Book a campus tour or explore our virtual tour.