Bachelor of Social Work
Join one of the world's fastest growing professions. Your nationally accredited, flexible social work degree will prepare you to work in an amazing variety of places - from health-care, to community builder - in Canada or around the world. Our profession is focused on social justice. It could be the satisfying career you're looking for.
Looking for a fulfilling career?
Social work is a profession that helps individuals, families, groups, and communities to improve their individual and collective well-being. Social workers work in a wide range of professional roles in many different areas including the health care system, private practice, the public sector, local and international community development and non-profit organizations.
During the course of your studies, you’ll gain research capabilities, practical experience, written and verbal communication skills, and a deeper understanding of how to help individuals and families within the context of their environment. As a social worker, you’ll be prepared for global career opportunities in settings such as hospitals, community health clinics, social service agencies, correctional facilities, consultation agencies, and the civil service. You may enter our program once you've completed either a social work diploma or two full years of university study, or as an after-degree student.
According to the International Federation of Social Workers, social work is one of the world's fastest growing professions. Social workers are in demand in Canada and around the world. For over 50 years, the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work has been recognized internationally for quality social work education and leading research.
A profession that aligns with your passion.
When I decided to go back to school, I wanted a career that aligned with my passion for working with people and seeking positive social change - social work was a natural fit. The best part of the experience was the people. As a cohort, we bonded in a way that brought a valued layer to learning. The program set me up for success and a promising career with the City of Lethbridge before I had even completed it.
Jerry Firth
BSW '14, MSW '16
Blended
Offered at our Calgary, Edmonton or Lethbridge campuses, our blended BSW is a combination of on campus and online learning.
You'll be on campus one day per week.
Online
Our entirely online BSW allows you to pursue your education remotely. This offers flexibility in where you learn.
You'll attend live classes online at specific times (Mon. & Wed. evenings | Sat. mornings), and complete other independent learning that can be done on your own schedule.
Get ready for practice
Field education remains at the heart of social work education, and your practicum will typically be completed in-person, close to or in your home community, anywhere in Canada.
Through practicum you'll have the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills required for social work practice and engage in supervision.
Our field education team is dedicated to supporting you through your practicum journey.
Which program works best for you?
Discover key differences including course load and time commitments.
How do I get in?
Admission requirements vary depending on your education, which also shapes your curriculum if you're accepted:
- All applicants need to have completed English Language Arts 30-1 or equivalent in high school, or a transferable post-secondary English course(s).
- If you haven't completed any formal social work education – through a recognized diploma program – you'll also need to complete Social Work 201 (or equivalent) which is an introduction to the profession and discipline.
