Master of Social Work

• Each school has different requirements for applying so it is important to determine the institution you have an interest in attending, and their application requirements. Most programs use an application process that considers both your academic and professional experience. It is a requirement that you have an honours degree prior to beginning a Master in Social Work program, however, your degree can be in a discipline other than Social Work.

• Most of the Master of Social Work programs in Ontario require an average around 73% in all university courses, and a 77% average in your last two years of study. Most programs also require an average of 73% or higher in Research Methods and Statistics. Check school websites for required grade levels, as they may vary. Remember that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

• Successful applicants must have relevant experience in the field in order to be considered.  Professional experience can usually consists of a combination of paid work experience and/or volunteer experience. Be sure to review the requirements of the schools you are interested in attending, as professional experience may be a requirement in some institutions.

• Master of Social Work programs usually require supplemental materials, which can include: transcripts, references, statement of intent, resume, and a portfolio outlining your professional experience.

General Considerations:

Programs vary in theoretical perspectives that help to guide and inform their program focus and teachings. Research which institutions align with your theoretical perspective and focus areas.

Specialized Programs:

Master of Social Work programs consist of coursework and practicum. Practicums require students to complete approximately 450 hours of field education for an Advanced Standing MSW program, and for a two-year program, expect to complete approximately double the amount of practicum hours. Your master’s degree will consist of a combination of classroom and hands-on learning. Some programs are offered as a part-time program to accommodate professionals who are working in the field and are pursuing their MSW simultaneously. Many of these programs are delivered online.

Examples of Areas of Specialization:

• Social Work and Juris Doctor – University of Windsor
• Social Work, Indigenous Trauma, and Resiliency – University of Toronto
• Social Work Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities – McMaster University
• Social Work Specialization in Gerontology – Lakehead University
• Social Work Specialization in Women’s Studies – Lakehead University
• One-year programs are considered “Advanced Standing” programs, and are offered to eligible students who have already completed a Bachelor in Social Work program.
• Two-year programs are for students who have completed an honours undergraduate degree in a related discipline. They often require relevant volunteer or work experience in the social work field.

Other Pathways: Both McGill University and Laurentian University offer a one-year program called the “Qualifying Year” for students who have completed an honours degree in a related discipline. Completion of the program allows students who have not completed a BSW program to apply to the Advanced Standing MSW program at the respective university where the Qualifying Year program was completed.

Online Delivery MSW programs are available at Wilfred Laurier, Dalhousie University, University of Waterloo, University of Windsor, Univeristy of Calgary and University of Victoria. Each university’s program has varying lengths, based on meeting individual student needs with scheduling and course load. Some online delivery programs can be completed on a full-time basis, however, they are often delivered as part-time programs for working professionals, which extends the length of the program. Full-time studies take approximately 12 months to complete, while part-time studies take between 2-3 years to complete. Be sure to research each program for specific program requirements and timelines, as some programs may require on-campus attendance for some aspects of the program. Also, be aware that students completing an MSW via distance education are required to complete approximately 450 hours of practicum, completed in the student’s home community which would typically be in person.

Different schools have different time periods for applications, so it is important to research when the deadlines are. Most schools have information sessions about their programs – dates and times will be noted on their websites. Don’t hesitate to call the admissions office of any school to ask for more information.

Find more information regarding all accredited Social Work programs available across Canada on the Canadian Association for Social Work Education’s website - caswe-acfts.ca/members/accredited-universities/