More about certificates
Focused graduate education in subjects most requested by the social work community.
Graduate Certificates
Graduate education for BSW degree holders
Applications open Jan. 15, 2026.
Formal Credentials
If you hold a BSW and want recognized expertise in a particular area – but don't necessarily want to pursue an MSW – then certificates might be a good solution for you.
Balancing Act
Certificates provide flexibility in how you pay for your education as well as when you take courses. Certificates are offered online, over eight months. The course load is full time; if this year looks to be very busy with life and work events, then look to take a certificate another year.
Don't forget the residencies!
Even though certificates are offered online, most require up to two in-person residencies at our Calgary or Edmonton campus locations. These residencies provide opportunities to build and practice your skills and apply the theory you've learned.
Laddering to an MSW
Certificates also provide a flexible way to ladder into a Master of Social Work degree. To do this, you'll have to complete two certificates: one in Advanced Social Work Practice and a second in Clinical Social Work Practice, International & Community Development, or Leadership in the Human Services. However, completing two certificates doesn't guarantee entry. If an MSW is your primary goal, you may want to consider applying directly to the program.
Fall 2026 Graduate Certificate Offerings
It surprised me in the amount of information that they provided in such a short amount of time, a whole university class in six weeks.
Julie Heide
Alumna (Advanced Social Work Practice and Practical and Transformational Leader)