Canada PSW Online Courses — No Experience Needed, Paid Practicum, and Government & YMCA Support
Looking to start a healthcare career fast? These PSW online programs offer flexible learning, paid practicums, and financial support through government and YMCA partnerships.
Recommended PSW Online Courses
1. SEHC PSW Student Program
- Duration: 24 weeks (12 weeks online learning + 12 weeks paid practicum)
- Tuition: Affordable, government or YMCA-supported financial assistance may be available
- Delivery: Online (Zoom)
- Paid Practicum: Conducted at existing long-term care facilities, providing practical experience and potential earnings
- Salary: During the practicum, students may earn approximately $19.05/hour
2. Collège Boréal Accelerated Paid Learning Program
- Duration: 20 weeks (12 weeks online learning + 8 weeks paid practicum)
- Tuition: Low cost, government subsidies or YMCA partner support available
- Delivery: Online (Zoom)
- Paid Practicum: Conducted at existing long-term care facilities, offering hands-on experience
- Salary: Students may earn approximately $19.25/hour during the practicum, plus a 30% overtime allowance
- Language: French instruction
3. Alpha Career College PSW Certificate Program
- Duration: Flexible schedule (afternoons, evenings, weekends)
- Tuition: Affordable, with installment plans or financial support through government programs or community partners
- Delivery: Online/Blended
- Paid Practicum: Offered as part of the program in long-term care or community settings
- Salary: Students may access up to $5,400 during clinical practicum and additional grants up to $10,000 when committing to work in eligible healthcare facilities
Why Choose These PSW Online Programs
- Government-Funded Training: Eligible learners may receive tuition coverage, stipends, or post-graduation bonuses up to $10,000 under Ontario’s PSW Funding Initiative.
- YMCA Employment Support: YMCA centers help candidates apply for government-funded PSW programs, prepare for interviews, and connect with local healthcare employers.
- Financial Assistance: Funding includes tuition reimbursement, $5,400 practicum stipends, and relocation bonuses for rural placements.
- Flexible Learning: Study 100% online or hybrid, complete certification in as little as 20 weeks.
Average PSW Salaries by Province
| Province | Average Hourly Wage (CAD) | Annual Salary Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $28.14 | $58,000 – $58,500 |
| British Columbia | $26.48 | $55,000 – $56,000 |
| Alberta | $22.33 | $46,000 – $47,000 |
| Quebec | $26.84 | $55,000 – $56,000 |
Note: Salaries are based on job boards and industry reports. Actual pay may vary by region, experience, and employer.
Career Path
After completing a PSW course, you can work in:
- Long-term care facilities
- Retirement communities
- Hospitals
- Home care
- Palliative care
With experience, you can further advance to become a Registered Nurse or a healthcare management professional.