Master’s in social work (MSW) programs in Canada prepare students for social work practice at the clinical and community level. Students gain a solid understanding of major social issues and current social welfare policies and programs in both Canada and around the world. Coursework commonly includes human development, social policy, social work theories, oppression, and graduate research seminar. Most programs also require a practicum in social work where students gain practical learning experiences in an actual social work environment.

To gain admittance to MSW programs in Canada, students must have a bachelor’s degree in any field, but those with degrees in social work commonly finish their programs at a faster pace. In general, the programs take two years of full-time study to complete. MSW programs prepare students for advanced study at the doctoral level or to enter the workforce pursuing a variety of careers, in areas like child welfare, gerontology, family support services, and social policy and planning.

MSW programs are offered both on-campus and online in Canada. Campus-based programs feature interactive face-to-face instruction and assigned practicum experiences. Online programs feature a more flexible format with all coursework online and field placement completed in a student’s local area. Some students choose campus-based programs because they desire a more traditional college experience with interaction with instructors and classmates. On the contrary, other students prefer online programs because they are more flexible and enable them to complete coursework when their schedule permits. Both formats feature rigorous high quality education that successfully prepares students to pursue upper level positions in the field of social work.