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Semester one of this program is not currently being offered. However, if you already have a diploma or a degree, you could be eligible for advanced standing into the program. Advanced intakes of this program are open. Apply today on ontariocolleges.ca

Bachelor of Community Development

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Program Code: CD411
Credential: Honours Degree
Start Dates: September
Program Length: 8 semesters
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Make September 2025 your time to shine. Apply on us and get your $150 application fee back*. See details.

Program Overview

Humber’s Bachelor of Community Development degree program offers a unique blend of theory and practice-based experience. The re-designed, fully online degree builds upon previously developed knowledge and skills acquired in a related human services diploma or a mix of credential and relevant work experience. Students learn how to work effectively in communities, how to build capacity for change, lead projects and advocate for people who face barriers to living a full and productive life. Humber’s Bachelor of Community Development degree is a completion degree that offers students several pathway opportunities to enhance their professional career by providing flexible access to a recognized Honours degree in the field of community development. Students enter with an advanced standing directly into Year 3 through the recognition of previous learning.

Consisting of four semesters and a work-integrated learning experience, graduates will gain and further refine the knowledge and skillsets necessary to engage in the following, among many other in-demand skills:

  • identify and build capacity of community assets, identifying root causes of problems
  • support transformational leadership in communities
  • participate in effective program development and evaluation
  • enact social innovation and social entrepreneurship
  • learn about organizational governance and financial structures
  • engage in collaborative participatory action research (PAR) with community stakeholders
  • examine contemporary social and local issues
  • recognize international community development 

 

Work-Integrated Learning  

Students will engage in a 420-hour as part of the program. Students may work on an applied community development project or may work directly with established community partners.

The field experiences may be in a social service, community, educational or non-profit organization where students will have an opportunity to work in the community development field. During this field experience, students may have a variety of responsibilities including assessment, research-based work, working directly with community groups and individuals, as well as supporting community workers, educators and/or social science professionals. Field experience opportunities are arranged with the help of a dedicated field advisor and are typically unpaid.

 


SSW Highlight

Social Service Worker students with a GPA of 65%+ can get advanced standing into the Bachelor of Community Development. Complete your degree in 4 semesters plus a work term.


Take a Tour of Our Sim Labs

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Students in the Therapeutic Play Lab


Community Development Showcase

After a year of collaboration, research and learning, we are proud to present the capstone thesis projects of our first Bachelor of Community Development graduating class. Our students have been challenged and persevered, learning new ways to work together and continue to build strong communities.

group of students laughing together


Alumni Testimonials

Avion Campbell headshot

Avion Campbell

Following graduation, Avion accepted the position of Human Rights and Equity Advisor (HREA) at the Bluewater District School Board. Read More

Expert Faculty

SCROLL FOR MORE  

You’ll learn from professors who have real-world experience and are active in the industry. Our professors are committed to providing you with practical, hands-on training to help you achieve the career you want.

View Credentials

Christine McKenzie

PhD – OISE, University of Toronto
MA - York University
BA - University of Western Ontario 

Linda Hill

MA - OISE, University of Toronto
Post Graduate Diploma, Gerontology, University of Toronto
BASc - University of Guelph
RSW - Registered Social Worker


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Study Abroad

Opportunities are available for students to study a semester abroad and/or do field placement work abroad. Our International Mobility Officer assists students in setting up these options.

 

 

Your Career

There is a need for educated community development professionals in government, community and social service organizations. Graduates may find strong employment prospects within a variety of settings including non-profit organizations, government, charities, as well as health and education sectors in roles such as: 

  • Anti-Poverty Worker
  • Community Development Officer
  • Community Engagement Specialist
  • Community Foundation Grants Officer
  • Community Manager
  • Community Relations Specialist
  • Community Investment Manager
  • City Commissioner of Community Services
  • Director of Policy & Advocacy
  • Director of Community & Academic Partnerships
  • Executive Director at Community Services Agency
  • Equity & Community Inclusion Manager
  • Environmental Justice Worker 
  • Indigenous Outreach Worker 
  • Institutional Planning for Inclusion & Belonging
  • Learning and Development Specialist
  • Participatory Action Researcher 
  • Partnership Strategy Advisor & Researcher
  • Social Entrepreneur 
  • Social Impact Specialist
  • Strategic Leader, Indigenous Engagement and Relationships

 

Program Availability

This program is only available for . Choose your existing education from the selection below to view availability and semester entry.

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Opening Soon
Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Not Available

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students in Canada who apply for September 2024 start could be eligible for an automatic scholarship*. Apply now

Please note the new International Admissions Process and Provincial Attestation Letters. Read the update

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Not Available

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

Please note the new International Admissions Process and Provincial Attestation Letters. Read the update

Community Development Student Testimonials

Igho Diana

Watch the video to hear about three different journeys through the Community Development program as well as an overview from a Humber professor.


News Feed

Year-end Thesis Poster Presentations

Year-end Thesis Poster Presentations

Program Highlights

FSCS degree-level programs hosted their annual thesis poster presentations.

Read More
Bachelor of Community Development Program Hosts Eco-Fair

Bachelor of Community Development Program Hosts Eco-Fair

Program Highlights

For the 4th consecutive year, the Bachelor of Community Development degree program hosted the Eco-Fair in the L-building cafeteria.

Read More

No news at this time.

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber Polytechnic reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

GET YOUR $125 APPLICATION FEE BACK*

Apply On Us This September!

Apply through OCAS between June 14 - July 19, 2024 and be registered full-time on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 and receive a $125 credit equal to the domestic application fee.

To qualify, get started by filling out the APPLY ON US form.

*This promotion is open to domestic applications for the September 2024 program intakes only. Offer not valid for existing applicants or applications.

International Students with a valid Study Permit or Letter of Introduction (LOI)* can receive a Waiver Code to cover the $100 September 2024 application fee.

Bringing You Our A-Game

A Humber education is second to none, benefit from:

Sign Up   to be notified of upcoming recruitment events and activities.

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by July 15, 2024 to receive your Application Fee Credit. Applications for September will remain open as long as the program availability status shows Open.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Christine McKenzie, Program Co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 3840
christine.mckenzie@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Advanced Entry

This program is only available for advanced entry. Applicants must hold a diploma in Child and Youth Care, Community and Justice Services, Developmental Services Worker, Police Foundations or Social Service Worker to gain admission into this program. The entry semester is based on the applicant's previous education and/or a defined pathway. Choose your diploma program from the Program Availability selector to view the program availability and semester entry.

This program is only available for advanced entry. Applicants must hold a diploma in Child and Youth Care, Community and Justice Services, Developmental Services Worker, Police Foundations or Social Service Worker to gain admission into this program. The entry semester is based on the applicant's previous education and/or a defined pathway. Choose your diploma program from the Program Availability selector to view the program availability and semester entry. Choose that semester entry when applying through ontariocolleges.ca.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following three requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • An Ontario College human services diploma, advanced diploma, or equivalent, with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent or more, from the following list of programs:
       
      Child and Youth Care Advanced Diploma
      Community and Justice Services Diploma
      Social Service Worker Diploma
      Social Service Worker -Gerontology Diploma
      Community Development Work Diploma
      Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate Diploma
     
    • ENG4U or Humber's WRIT 100 or 200 level, or equivalent with a minimum grade of 65 per cent.
       
    Note: Applicants with postsecondary education outside of the human services field, who also have relevant work/life experience, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Admissions Officer, Shevon Carbonneau (shevon.carbonneau@humber.ca) to learn more.

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Equipment & Device Requirements

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters was:

  • domestic: $7,473.86
  • international: $20,678.94

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Degree Scholarships

Humber awards degree scholarships automatically to graduating high school students based on academic achievement. See this following chart for details. Some of the scholarships are renewable each year if you maintain an average of 80 per cent or more.

95%+ $4,000 renewable
90 - 94.9% $3,500 renewable
85 - 89.9% $3,000 renewable
80 - 84.9% $2,000 renewable
75 - 79.9% $1,500 one time

Degree Transfer Scholarships ($1,500 - $2,500)

Humber automatically awards degree transfer scholarships to students entering any Humber degree program who have completed a one-year Ontario college certificate* or a two- or three-year diploma with a GPA of 80 per cent or more from a publicly-funded college. Students who have achieved a program GPA of 80 per cent or more will be awarded a one-time scholarship of $1,500 for a certificate program or $2,500 for a diploma program in recognition of their academic achievement. Certificates and diplomas do not have to be related to the degree program of choice and are not tied to the eligibility for advanced standing or transfer credit. No application is required

80%+ Certificate | $1,500

One Time 80%+ Diploma | $2,500

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
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