Community Social Services program renamed to reflect focus on well-being

A student presents her poster project to Dr. Olivia Boukydis

The University of Guelph-Humber’s Community Social Services program is getting a new name. Starting fall 2026, the program will be known as Social Services and Well-Being Studies (SSWS).

The refreshed title puts “social services” at the forefront. The addition of “well-being” reflects the program’s foundational emphasis, while signalling the University’s commitment to students, employers, and industry partners that it will prepare graduates to promote well-being in professional and academic settings.

“Social Services and Well-Being Studies (SSWS) reflects the diverse ways our graduates contribute to meaningful change, whether through direct service, research, policy, or community engagement… Our students will graduate ready to make a difference across multiple sectors and settings,” Interim Chair, Community Social Services (soon to be Social Services and Well-Being Studies), Dr. Olivia Boukydis said. 

This change also signifies sector alignment and highlights the program’s true scope. The renaming aims to clarify program focus, enhance appeal, and support broader career pathways for graduates. As students’ interests have evolved beyond frontline practice, so has the program’s name to reflect the myriad of opportunities available both pre- and post-graduation. 

“As a name, SSWS appropriately represents the interdisciplinary nature of the social services and the central role of well-being,” Dr. Boukydis added.

SSWS graduates at Guelph-Humber will continue to receive a dual credential: a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) from the University of Guelph, as well as a Social Service Worker diploma from Humber Polytechnic. The program will also retain recognition by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

As Guelph-Humber steps into the future, the University is looking forward to inspiring SSWS students in transformative ways. 

“Our graduates are change-makers in their communities, fuelled by the passions they hone in our program. As a proud alum, I am confident that SSWS will continue to inspire and embolden students to be our future leaders,” Interim Associate Head, Community Social Services (soon to be Social Services and Well-Being Studies), Lindsay Van Dekerkhove said.

In September, students will have the option to attend one of three town halls, where questions they might have will be answered.  

Published Date
Thursday, August 21, 2025