FAQ – Questions and Answers
How competitive is the program?
We typically receive under 100 applications for the 60 spots each year. With the new addition of the part-time study option, there are now even more spots available for students in the professional years.
I have a diploma/degree in a related discipline, am I eligible for advanced standing or direct admission to the professional years?
We do not offer Advanced Standing or direct admission to the professional years at this time.
I am taking courses in the summer session in 2025, am I still eligible to apply for the Professional Years for September 2025?
All requirements for admissions must be completed by May 15, 2025. Courses taken during the 2025 summer semester will not be considered during the admissions process.
When does the BSW Professional Years start? Can I begin the Professional Years in second term (i.e., January) or during summer sessions?
The Professional Years start in September. There are no entry points for January or summer.
Is it possible to pursue the BSW Professional Years part-time?
Yes, students with a SWRK-3000Y transfer credit are eligible to apply to the Professional Years on a part-time basis. Spots are limited (10 per campus). The same application is used for both full-time and part-time study.
Can I apply to both the Peterborough campus and the Durham campus?
Yes. You will have the choice to apply to Peterborough only, Durham only, either campus prefer Peterborough, or either campus prefer Durham. By selecting either campus, it improves your chances to be accepted into the Program; however, students must attend their assigned campus for all required courses. All decisions are final.
How is the academic component of students’ applications calculated?
- Applicants must have a minimum 70% grade in each of SWRK 1000H (or a transfer credit pass), SWRK 1001H (or a transfer credit pass), SWRK 2001H, and SWRK 2004H.
- Applicants must also meet the academic requirements for applying to the professional years (see Year 1 and 2 in the Academic Calendar under Social Work). These 10.0 credits will then be used to calculate the cumulative average (70% minimum cumulative average required).
- If you have transfer credits, the average will be calculated using your remaining numeric Trent grades.
Can I apply to the professional years a second time?
Yes. If you have applied once and did not get an offer, you can apply again. You must pay the fee again and complete the online form by the applicable deadline.
If I don’t get into the Professional Years, what can I do?
You can continue with your studies at Trent and complete your degree in a different major. After graduating from Trent, you might consider applying to a one-year post degree BSW or a two-year MSW. For more information visit the Canadian Association for Social Work Education website for Universities that offer these programs. Please note that for information on admissions process to other schools, it is best that you contact that school/program for the most accurate and update to date information.
Do I need to provide Professional References?
No. Please do not provide contact information/professional references as part of your application.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions, please contact Kennedie Close, the Social Work Academic Coordinator: Phone: 705-748-1011 x 7618 Email: kclose@trentu.ca