Keyano social work program more than doubling in size to meet local demands

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Keyano College’s social work program will more than double its students during the next three years thanks to a grant from the Alberta government.

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The grant is part of a $10-million program distributed towards expanding mental health and psychology programs at 12 post-secondary institutions across Alberta. In three years, Keyano’s social work diploma program will expand from 25 seats to 55 seats.

Alexis Teske, associate dean of Keyano’s school of health and human services, said in an interview the program has become increasingly popular and has had a growing number of qualified applicants in recent years.

The diploma is a two-year generalist program designed to prepare students for social work’s wide field of expertise. Teske says the highest demands for social workers in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region come from employers and non-profits that deal with children and youth, homelessness, and substance abuse.

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“A huge number of our graduates stay within the region and find employment here often based off of experiences they’ve had in practicum,” said Teske.

“Obviously with our enrollment data, we also see that we do have a need to increase the seats.”

The program has also found other ways to expand. Keyano is constantly partnering with new and up-and-coming agencies in the community or preparing to move into the region.

“This initiative is not just about filling current gaps,” Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney said at an Aug. 30 news conference announcing the funding.

“It’s also about anticipating future needs by expanding educational opportunities in these in-demand professions.”

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vmcdermott@postmedia.com

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