Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work four-year degree provides graduates with the theoretical knowledge and skills they need to work with individuals, families and communities. A balance of general liberal arts education in the first two years, followed by a professional social work education in the final two years, through both courses and practical field placements, provides the knowledge and skills for a generalist social work practice.

Students apply to the program after their second year of a Bachelor of Arts having earned 60 credit hours. The courses in the liberal arts are significantly strengthened in the subsequent two years by a series of core courses essential to a social work practice; critical social work theory, anti-oppressive social work practice, group work, mental health issues, addiction, child welfare, trauma, and family law. The field practicums supplement these courses, with one focusing on social action at the community/organization level, and a second in a clinical setting with local social agencies, supported by experienced field instructors. In addition, a research methods course helps students keep pace with the changing landscape of social work scholarship and prepares them for professional practice.

Practicums

The Bachelor of Social Work includes a minimum of 700 hours of field practice, as required by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education Standards for Accreditation. The first practicum commences during the Winter Semester of the third year (250 hours). The second practicum occurs during the Winter Semester of the fourth year (450 hours) in a block format, four days a week.

Topics in Social Work

· History, values, ethics, and skills of social work practice

· Critical analysis of social welfare, social policy and social services

· Challenging oppression and confronting privilege in social work practice

· Community organizing

· Preparation for professional practice