School of Community Studies

WHERE YOUR JOURNEY IN COMMUNITY STUDIES BEGINS

At Fanshawe’s School of Community Studies, you’ll learn how to support individuals, families, and communities in ways that create meaningful and lasting change. If you’re passionate about improving people’s quality of life and making a positive impact, we have a program for you. Our programs are built around real‑world practice, strong community partnerships, and caring faculty who guide and support you every step of the way.

You’ll gain hands‑on skills through collaborative learning experiences designed to help you grow your confidence and professional abilities.

You’ll work closely with experienced instructors, gain field experience in community agencies, and develop the interpersonal and problem‑solving skills needed in today’s human‑services fields. With a focus on meaningful connection, Fanshawe prepares you for a rewarding career where you can make a real difference every day.

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Autism & Behavioural Science students working with Boys and Girls club

Supportive, Caring and Experienced Faculty

Pathway Opportunities

Field Placement Opportunities

Featured Programs

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Labs & Spaces

Students have access to a new, fully equipped simulated home environment that provides a realistic setting for you to practice skills in a space that looks and feels like a family or group home. With a kitchen, bathroom, common living area, and four bedrooms, the lab supports flexible training opportunities that are less clinical and more reflective of real‑world support settings. Its adaptable common area can be easily transformed into a classroom, allowing DSW and community‑based programs to blend hands‑on simulation with instructional learning.

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Experiential Learning & Career Pathways

Diploma to Degree

Move your career forward with clear diploma‑to‑degree pathways. Graduates of Early Childhood Education can continue into the Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership, building advanced leadership and advocacy skills. Students in Autism and Behavioural Science can pathway into the Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology, deepening their assessment and intervention expertise.

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Apprenticeships

Some programs, like Childhood Development Practitioner and Developmental Services Worker, offer apprenticeship routes that combine paid, on‑the‑job training with in‑class learning. You’ll gain workplace experience while earning credentials that support long‑term career growth in community and human‑services fields.

Learn More About Apprenticeships

Field Placements

Put your learning into practice through placements in community agencies, early‑learning centres, social‑service organizations, and recreation programs. These experiences help you build real‑world skills, understand client needs, and grow your confidence working directly with people in your community.

Sandra Lackenbauer, PhD

Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership Professor & Program Coordinator

Sandra Lackenbauer is a professor and program coordinator in the School of Community Studies, bringing over 20 years of post‑secondary teaching and research expertise to your learning experience. Specializing in psychology, research methodology, and ethics, her insights elevate her students’ education. For 13 years, Sandra has been a driving force behind the Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership (ECL) program, helping maintain its outstanding reputation and exceptional academic quality. Passionate about professionalism and ethical practice, Sandra is committed to preparing you to step confidently into leadership roles within the early years sector so you’ll be ready to make an immediate, meaningful impact.

Signature Learning Experience

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Community-Based Learning

Work directly with local organizations to support children, youth, adults, and families through practical, hands-on experiences that build confidence and empathy.

Inclusive Practice & Support Training

Learn how to support people of all abilities and backgrounds through applied learning in DSW, CICE, ECE and SSW programs, focusing on dignity, inclusion, and person‑centered care.

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Behavioural Intervention Simulations

Develop assessment and intervention skills through simulated sessions and observation labs used in DSW, Behavioural Psychology and Autism & Behavioural Science programs.

This program provided a well-rounded education, covering various aspects of the field through engaging coursework and practical assignments that deepened my knowledge. The hands-on placement experience was instrumental, allowing me to apply my learning in a real-world setting and gain insight into the profession. In my current role as a Community Outreach Worker at Oxford County Community Health Centre, I use many of the skills I developed through this program.

- Valeria Carillo,

Addictions and Mental Health graduate 2023

Academic Resources for Current Students

Bridging for Advanced Standing

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Explore all programs in the School of Community Studies and find the pathway that aligns with your passion for supporting individuals, families, and communities.

Industry & Employer Partnerships

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Hire a Student

Hire skilled, job‑ready Fanshawe students for co‑ops, internships, full-time and part‑time roles. Connect with emerging talent and build your workforce through hands‑on student recruitment and early career partnerships.

Learn About Hiring a Student

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Mentorship Opportunities

Support the next generation of professionals by mentoring a Fanshawe student. Share your industry experience, offer guidance, and help students build confidence as they prepare for their careers.

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Join a Program Advisory Committee

Join a Program Advisory Committee and help shape the future of education at Fanshawe. Share your industry expertise, guide curriculum development, and support student success by ensuring our programs stay aligned with real workforce needs.

Inquire About PACs