Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Social Work Program

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Carleton University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in social work, preparing them for careers in this field. The program is offered in-person, with compulsory attendance requirements for many of the core courses.

Admission Overview

The program conducts one admissions cycle per year, with the next cycle being for possible entry in the Fall of 2026. There are two main steps to applying to the BSW program: submitting an online application and completing supplementary application components.

Application Deadlines

• Online Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
• Supplementary Application Components Deadline: March 5, 2026

BSW Applicant Evaluation Criteria

All applicants must meet Carleton University's minimum admission requirements. Additional criteria include:

• A minimum average of 75% overall
• Amount and quality of human service/social change work or volunteer experience
• Essay question response

Program Requirements

Students are required to meet the Essential Requirements for the BSW program throughout their studies to remain in the program. The program is in-person, and many core courses involve compulsory attendance. Students must complete two placements to meet degree requirements, and social work placements are unpaid.

Application Components and Steps

Initial Step: Online Application

Current or previous Carleton University students must apply online through the Internal Application on Carleton360. All other applicants must apply online through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre.

Additional Requirements: Supplementary Application

The supplementary application includes:

1. Admissions Essay (500 words max.): How life experiences connect to society at large and how they have shaped interest in studying social work at Carleton University.
2. Optional Essay Submission (250-500 words max.): Explaining circumstances that may have impacted academic performance or work experience.
3. Resume: Including relevant paid work experience, unpaid/volunteer experience, supervised placements, certificates, licenses, trainings, and other community or school involvement.
4. Self-Identification Form (optional): Opportunity to self-identify as a member of an equity-deserving group.

Admission Decisions

Admission decisions typically begin to appear in late April, and all decisions are final. The School of Social Work does not have an appeal process for unsuccessful applicants.

Year of Entry

The program admits students into the first, second, and third year, depending on transfer credits awarded from previous post-secondary studies. Transfer credit cannot be guaranteed or confirmed before this process occurs.

Program Structure

The BSW program at Carleton University is designed to provide a comprehensive education in social work, with a focus on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program includes coursework, practicum placements, and research opportunities to prepare students for careers in social work.

Practicum Information

The practicum is a critical component of the BSW program, providing students with hands-on experience in social work settings. Students must complete two placements to meet degree requirements, and these placements are unpaid. More information on practicum policies and procedures can be found on the BSW Practicum Hub.

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Carleton University offers a comprehensive education in social work, preparing students for careers in this field. With its focus on theoretical foundations, practical applications, and community engagement, the program provides students with a well-rounded education and hands-on experience in social work settings.