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Social Welfare and Social Development

Intake(s):
Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer
Available as:
Honours Specialization, Specialization, Major, Minor
Available to:

 All Students

Degree type:
Bachelor of Arts

**

Course load:
Full-time, Part-time
Dual Degree Option
PGWP Eligible
Admission is currently suspended for this program

Empower Change. Advocate for Social Justice. Shape Your Future in Social Development.

Are you passionate about improving lives and advocating for social justice? The Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare and Social Development at Nipissing University offers an in-depth understanding of social welfare policies, human development, and societal structures, preparing you for a meaningful career dedicated to social change and community well-being. Whether you’re interested in working with vulnerable populations or developing policies that impact social systems, this program provides the foundation you need to make a difference. 

Program Highlights

  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Explore how social, cultural, political, and economic factors shape human development and well-being, preparing you to address social issues on multiple levels. 
  • Real-World Experience: Participate in field placements and community-based projects, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and network with professionals in the social welfare sector. 
  • Flexible Learning: Choose from a range of elective courses that align with your interests and career goals, allowing you to specialize in areas like community development, social policy, and advocacy. 
  • Collaborative Environment: Benefit from a supportive learning community, working alongside like-minded students and faculty who share your commitment to creating social change. 

Why Nipissing's Social Welfare and Social Development Program?

Comprehensive Curriculum

Dive deep into social welfare policies, human behavior, community development, social justice, and advocacy strategies.

Hands-On Experience

Gain practical experience through field placements that allow you to apply your learning in real-world settings.

Expert Faculty

Learn from professors with extensive experience in social work, policy development, and community engagement.

Strong Focus on Social Justice

Our program emphasizes equity, inclusion, and human rights, enabling you to become a strong advocate for marginalized communities.

Personalized Learning

Enjoy the benefit of small class sizes, ensuring close faculty interaction, collaborative learning, and mentorship.

Future Careers

A Social Welfare and Social Development degree from Nipissing University prepares graduates to advocate for equity, influence policy, and support individuals and communities. Graduates may pursue roles in:

Social Services & Community Support
Community outreach workers, social service workers, case coordinators, or housing support workers.

Policy & Public Sector
Policy analysts, program officers, public service professionals, or social planning assistants.

Health & Mental Health Support
Mental health support workers, addictions support workers, community health workers, or rehabilitation support staff.

Community Development & Advocacy
Community development officers, advocacy coordinators, program developers, or social impact workers.

Non-Profit & Human Services Organizations
Program coordinators, settlement workers, youth support workers, or outreach coordinators.

Real People, Real Impact

Discover how real students have found support, opportunity, and belonging at Nipissing.
A man with glasses wearing a purple and dark grey suit against a dark background
As someone who didn’t take a Bachelor of Social Work, I feel incredibly thankful that this door remained open because of the dual program that you folks offer.

Dakota H.

Class of 2020

A man in glass wearing a white and blue pattered shirt in front of a blurred nature background

I really appreciated the personalized approach that my professors took with me when discussing broad, complex societal issues. Being able to learn, ask questions and dissect the sociological fundamentals in a classroom where the prof knew me personally, was an experience unrivalled.

Christopher P.

Class of 2015

Program Requirements

How the Common Degree Structure Works

At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.

Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.

Program Options & Course Requirements

Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link. 

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Other Programs

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Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts
A classroom full of students looking at their monitor with the professor at the front
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science

Notes:

Honours Specialization with a Social Service Worker Diploma (collaborative with Canadore) also available.

Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.