Social Innovation and Community Development
Social innovation brings new perspectives to existing ways of decision-making in today’s world.
Discover the tremendous capacities of communities and individuals looking to initiate systems change.
The Social Innovation and Community Development program is designed for learners who want to create change in urban, rural, local or global settings. Through this program, you will build the theory, practical skills and work experience needed for employment in socio-economic development and environmental issues. You will also develop the capacity to work for Indigenous communities and organizations, government institutions and social enterprises.
Through a combination of applied learning and work experience, you’ll focus on the social, political, cultural and economic factors that contribute to urban, rural, local and global development. You’ll also develop a deeper understanding of community development and economic reconciliation as observed through Indigenous perspectives.
Certificate: After completing the first year of the program, you can conclude your studies with a Foundations in Social Innovation and Community Development certificate.
Diploma: After completing the common first year of the program, you can choose to continue your studies and attain a diploma from one of two specific majors – Community Development or Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship.
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Program TypeFull-time
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CredentialsCertificate and Diploma
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Program DeliveryProgram courses are delivered primarily in person, with some components delivered online. See locations to understand where the in-person components of this program take place.In-person hybrid
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In-person LocationExchange District Campus
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IntakeFall
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Program Length1-2 years
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Total Tuition / Fees for CoursesEstimated total tuition fees for all terms of this program for domestic students. Other fees not included in this total include textbooks, supplies, application fee, etc. Learn more ›$5,400 – $11,400
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How to EnrolThis program requires a formal application. Find out how to apply ›Application required
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Application TypeRRC Polytech programs have different types of applications. Learn more about application types ›Direct entry
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International ProgramFind out about the services and supports available to international students. Learn more ›Open to students from around the globe
Choose Your Specialty
Graduate From One of Our Majors
In the second year of this program, you will specialize in one of two majors. These two different segments of the social innovation ecosystem provide our grads with the skillsets they need to make an immediate impact in the community.
Community Development
Become an agent of change in communities experiencing barriers to development. Learn how to effectively use community assets, promote inclusion and participation at all levels and understand structural dynamics and ethical issues.
Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for innovating, creating wealth and addressing the issues communities face around the globe. Learn to transform your values and passions into a venture that positively impacts the world.
Experience a Polytechnic Education
Full-time Delivery: Something New Every Term
The Social Innovation and Community Development program is full of people who want to change the world – one street, one neighbourhood, one community at a time. If you have passion, commitment, ideas, a little healthy confusion and a whole lot of questions, this program is your path to a great career!
TERM 1
Begin exploring Indigenous perspectives, community leadership and the foundations of social innovation.
TERM 2
Explore important concepts and support organizations while building your practical skills for community development and social enterprise. Graduate with a certificate or pursue a second-year diploma by selecting your major.
TERM 3
Expand your specialized knowledge and explore project-based learning opportunities in your major of choice.
TERM 4
Continue focusing on your major through work-integrated learning opportunities. Collaborate with a community organization to build professional connections and employment potential.
Employment Potential
Prepare yourself for career success
Potential Grad CAREERS
- Project coordinators
- Program managers
- Policy analysts in all levels of governments
- Community developers
- Political policy researchers and writers
- Community economic development officers
- Cultural program planners
- Activists
- Social responsibility managers in for-profit business
- Housing program developers
- Food security program developers
- Students in post-secondary degree programs
- Reconciliation programming planners
AFFILIATIONS AND ACCREDITATIONS
What to Expect in This Program
Get Prepared for the Future of Work
Excel with practical learning and experienced instructors, all focused on your success. With an employer-driven education, you won’t just be ready for a career – you’ll be prepared to stay in front of what’s ahead.
Applied Research
Bridging Theory and Practice for Real-World Impact
RRC Polytech is a leader in applied research in Canada. Matching industry needs with College resources and facilities drives innovation and growth in our province — and beyond.
Connect theoretical knowledge with practical solutions, foster innovation and contribute to industry advancements as part of this program.
Graduate Success
Recent Social Innovation and Community Development grads are already employed in their fields of choice. Many have moved into the same organizations where they did work-integrated learning projects. Others follow the connections they’ve made through the program’s tours and guest speakers.
The statistics below represent the opinions and employment statuses of this program’s recent grads. They were retrieved from the 2019-2020 RRC Polytech Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report.
100% – SATISFIED WITH RRC POLYTECH EDUCATION
Our grads nurture community development by promoting collectivity and listening to others. They make an immediate impact on community growth by creating positive change in their environments.
100% – CONSIDER PROGRAM UP TO DATE
By creating their own social enterprises or working in other organizations, our grads are making a difference in the world. Through this program, they develop the skills and mindset to make their mark in non-profit, for-profit, government and co-operative organizations.
100% – RECOMMEND PROGRAM TO OTHERS
Our grads are walking beside people in the community to better serve their peers. They create their own path toward career success while promoting meaningful community development.
Who Should Enrol?
Turn your talents into academic success
As a Social Innovation and Community Development student, you are interested in creating social change. You want to right wrongs and be an ally to people who are facing barriers to healthy, self-determined lives. You might be in social justice clubs, volunteering or making your school or community better for all. As a successful professional, you’re work is guided by passion, empathy, creativity and flexibility.
Students that excel in this program often share these interests, skills and personality traits.
PERSONALITY TRAITS
- Adaptable
- Challenge-driven
- Community-oriented
- Empathetic
- Ethical
SKILLS
- Commitment
- Enthusiasm
- Lifelong learning
- Positive attitude
- Problem solving
INTERESTS
- Social innovation
- Indigenous entrepreneurship
- Community development
- Community change
- Reconciliation
- Social justice
- Activism
- Indigenous startups
- Community support
All the Information You Need
MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.
LOCATION, DATES AND FEES
Start planning with peace of mind and get the information you need on one easy-to-find page. Review start dates, locations, book and equipment costs and program fees.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Celebrate and motivate your learning. Whether you’ve sprinted through the first term or just received your acceptance letter, find a variety of bursaries, scholarships and awards.
OTHER INFORMATION
Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.
DATES AND FEES
Start preparing with peace of mind. View information about courses and sections, including locations, delivery methods and costs. It only takes minutes to register and further your future.
LIST OF COURSES
Plan out your preferred learning journey. Review a summary of this program’s courses to discover what you’ll learn and how an RRC Polytech education will help your career.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.
OTHER INFORMATION
Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.
Begin Your Journey
Get Started with RRC Polytech
Start Your Application
Your future is within reach, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Experience industry-focused opportunities available at RRC Polytech and develop the knowledge and skills to grow, lead and excel in your future career.
Funding Your Education
Support yourself while pursuing your RRC Polytech education. You may be eligible for loans, grants and scholarships to help tackle your financial needs.
Future Student Events
Explore our upcoming information sessions and events to learn more about our programs and to get your questions answered.
RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.
We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.