George Brown College’s Human Services Foundations (A113) is a certificate program that will help you develop the academic skills you need to thrive in human services programs and related career pathways.

In a supportive learning environment, you will study human behaviour with a focus on psychology, sociology and anti-oppressive practice – establishing an essential foundation that will set you up for success both in the classroom and in the human services sector.

You will work in small groups to build the skills you need to work as an effective team member. Activities will focus on developing and strengthening collaboration and effective communication skills and will teach you how to form positive working relationships in diverse and inclusive team environments.

In the Human Services Foundations program, you will learn:

• to think critically by applying effective communication and research skills to present information in a factual, confident, and objective manner
• to identify the systemic barriers that impact equity and inclusion on individuals and community groups in Canadian society
• the role human services professionals play in removing systemic barriers
• the many career pathway options that exist in the human services sector
• to make informed decisions about your future academic and professional goals
• academic and life skills, including greater self awareness, that will enable your success not only at college, but in the workforce and as an engaged member of society
• strategies for wellness, lifelong learning and self-development

As part of our commitment to student success, the School of Work and College Preparation has established a variety of supports to help you achieve your academic and career goals.

• Student Success Counsellor – You will have individual access to a counsellor who will help design solutions to overcome challenges that may inhibit your success at college.
• Pathway Advisor – You will meet with a Pathway Advisor to discuss your specific academic and career goals. With that information, you will be supported as you explore potential pathway opportunities.
• Peer Learning Group – As a student in this program, you will have the option to attend a weekly Peer Learning Group. This group is facilitated by a former graduate who is a current student in one of our diploma programs. This mentor will provide support on course content and program assignments.

For a list of George Brown’s human services sector–related programs that you may qualify for upon graduation from the (A113) program, click the Career and Postgraduate Study Opportunities tab on the left side of this page.

As a student in the Human Services Foundations program (formerly Pre-Community Services A103), you will gain an overview of the helping field, including roles and systemic issues and a theoretical basis through courses in sociology and psychology. You will develop skills necessary for admission to programs in the School of Social and Community Services* at George Brown College and other post-secondary institutions.

You will improve your skills and confidence in a supportive learning environment. A strong emphasis on group learning encourages co-operation, teamwork, and mutual support that will be beneficial in the helping professions.

You will be prepared to make effective and informed decisions regarding future education and career choices.

*Applicants to the Social Service Worker program are encouraged to apply well in advance of the ontariocolleges.ca application deadline for the following academic year.

Note: Students preparing to apply to the Behavioural Science Technology program are advised to take Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas Program (A109) rather than Human Services Foundations.