Some theory portions of a PSW course may be offered online or in a hybrid format, but PSW training in Ontario always includes supervised clinical placements that must be completed in person. This guide covers what the rules require, how programs are structured, and what to check before you enrol.
Key takeaways
- Central College’s PSW program runs for 1 academic year and 700 total hours, with 355 hours of practical and practicum work that must be completed in person at clinical sites.
- Clinical placements in both community and facility settings are a non-negotiable requirement — no Ontario employer accepts a PSW certificate that lacks completed, supervised placement hours.
- A clear Vulnerable Sector Check, medical clearance, and current CPR and First Aid certification are required before students can begin clinical placements.
Can you take a PSW course online?
Not entirely. Some programs offer theory content online or through hybrid delivery, but the clinical placement component — hands on training with real clients in a healthcare setting — cannot be done remotely.
The NACC standard that governs PSW training requires students to demonstrate direct client care under supervision before a certificate is issued. A fully online PSW course with no placement hours does not meet that standard and is not recognized by Ontario employers.
Which parts of PSW training must be in person?
Everything that involves direct client contact or equipment practice. At Central College, the 700-hour program includes 355 hours of practical and practicum work across two placements:
- Clinical Placement (Community): Carrying out personal care duties in home settings, supporting daily living activities, and monitoring and reporting observations to the care team. Students work with clients and their families, including individuals living with disabilities.
- Clinical Placement (Facility): Working inside a long term care home, fulfilling PSW responsibilities around mobility, nutrition, hygiene, and safety while respecting client dignity at all times.
Both placements require students to meet health clearance and safety standards set by the host facility before they begin.
Online, hybrid or in class: how PSW programs are delivered
In-person: All theory and all placement hours are attended on campus and at placement sites — the most common format across Ontario programs.
Hybrid: Some theory content is delivered online while labs and all placement hours remain in person. Not all PSW programs offer this format.
Fully online: No accredited PSW program in Ontario is delivered entirely online. Any course claiming a complete online PSW certificate without placement hours does not meet NACC or provincial standards.
Central College’s PSW program is based at its Mississauga campus. For the current delivery format and intake schedule, contact admissions at +1 905-566-0507.
Is an online PSW certificate recognized in Ontario?
Ontario employers look for candidates who hold a certificate from a recognized program that includes completed clinical placements. A certificate issued without placement hours will not satisfy most Ontario employers.
Ask the college directly whether the certificate is issued under the NACC standard and whether completed placement hours appear on the credential.
Is there a free online PSW course in Ontario?
No accredited PSW program is tuition-free by default. Government-funded cohorts covered tuition for eligible students in some years, and Better Jobs Ontario can cover the full cost of approved PSW training for qualifying applicants. Some long term care employers also offer tuition reimbursement in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.
For a current cost breakdown and funding options, see the PSW course cost guide.
What to check before you enrol in a PSW program
- Placement is included — confirm both community and facility placement hours are part of the curriculum.
- The credential is recognized — ask whether the certificate meets the NACC standard accepted by Ontario employers.
- Total fees, in writing — get a breakdown that includes tuition, materials, and Vulnerable Sector Check requirements. The PSW course cost guide covers what to expect.
- Intake dates and schedule — confirm when the next cohort starts and whether theory modules suit your schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the PSW course?
Central College’s PSW program runs for 1 academic year across 700 total hours. For a full breakdown, see the PSW program duration guide.
What is a PSW course?
A PSW course trains students to assist clients with personal care duties, mobility, and nutrition in homes, hospitals, and long term care settings. See what is a PSW course in Canada for a full overview.
How much is a PSW course in Ontario?
PSW course fees in Ontario vary by institution and what is bundled. Public college programs typically run $3,500 to $6,000 for domestic students; private career college fees vary by campus. Financial assistance through OSAP, Better Jobs Ontario, or employer tuition support may reduce out-of-pocket costs. See the PSW course cost guide for a full breakdown.
Join the PSW program at Central College
Central College of Business & Technology in Mississauga offers a personal support worker course that runs for 1 academic year and 700 hours, combining classroom instruction with supervised community and facility placements. Graduates leave job ready for a PSW career in home care, long term care homes, and hospitals across Canada.
To ask about the next intake, delivery format, or financial assistance, visit the program information sessions page or call +1 905-566-0507.
About Central College of Business & Technology
Central College of Business & Technology is a registered private career college in Mississauga, Ontario, specializing in PSW and healthcare career training. Located at 1140 Burnhamthorpe Rd W #201, Mississauga, ON L5C 0A3. Contact: +1 905-566-0507 | info@central-college.ca
Service area
Central College serves students from Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Etobicoke, and the broader Greater Toronto Area.
Next step
Review admission requirements and placement details on the personal support worker course page.