Program Overview
Master of Social Work Program Overview
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a postgraduate degree that requires an honours degree prior to beginning the program. The degree can be in a discipline other than Social Work. Most MSW programs in Ontario require an average of around 73% in all university courses and a 77% average in the last two years of study. Additionally, most programs require an average of 73% or higher in Research Methods and Statistics.
Admission Requirements
Successful applicants must have relevant experience in the field, which can consist of a combination of paid work experience and/or volunteer experience. Supplemental materials required for admission may include:
- Transcripts
- References
- Statement of intent
- Resume
- A portfolio outlining professional experience
Program Structure
MSW programs usually 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. The master's degree will consist of a combination of classroom and hands-on learning.
Specialized Programs
Some programs are offered as part-time programs 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 include:
- Social Work and Juris Doctor
- Social Work, Indigenous Trauma, and Resiliency
- Social Work Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities
- Social Work Specialization in Gerontology
- Social Work Specialization in Women's Studies
Program Length and Delivery
One-year programs are considered "Advanced Standing" programs, 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. Online delivery MSW programs are available at several universities, with varying lengths based on meeting individual student needs with scheduling and course load. Full-time studies take approximately 12 months to complete, while part-time studies take between 2-3 years to complete.
Advanced Standing and Two-Year Programs
Advanced Standing programs are offered at:
- Carleton University
- King's University College
- Lakehead University
- Laurentian University
- McGill University
- McMaster University
- Ryerson University
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- University of Windsor
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- York University Two-Year programs are offered at:
- Carleton University
- King's University College
- University of Ottawa (French delivery only)
- University of Toronto
- University of Windsor
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- York University
Other Pathways
Some universities 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 to apply to the Advanced Standing MSW program at the respective university.
Online Delivery
Online MSW programs are available at several universities, including:
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- Dalhousie University
- University of Waterloo
- University of Windsor
- University of Calgary
- University of Victoria Each university's program has varying lengths, based on meeting individual student needs with scheduling and course load. 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.