Social Work
Undergraduate Program Overview
All Students
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Transform Lives. Advocate for Change. Build a Career in Social Work.
At Nipissing University, we are dedicated to preparing future social work professionals who are passionate about improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Our Bachelor of Social Work undergraduate program equips you with the knowledge, practical experience, and ethical foundation needed to tackle social issues and advocate for social justice. If you’re committed to making a difference in the world and empowering marginalized groups, the BSW at Nipissing is the perfect fit for you.
Program Highlights
- Experiential Learning: Engage in field placements with social service agencies and community organizations, where you will apply your classroom knowledge to real-life situations.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Learn from multiple disciplines including psychology, sociology, and law to understand the complex social systems that shape individuals and communities.
- Personalized Attention: Benefit from small class sizes, ensuring individual support, mentorship, and direct interaction with faculty members who are dedicated to your success.
- Ethical Practice: Develop a deep understanding of social work ethics, professional responsibility, and cultural competency to work effectively in diverse communities.
The Bachelor of Social Work program has been granted initial accreditation by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE-ACFTS).
Already have a degree?
Enter the BSW Professional Years (Years 3)
Students who hold a recognized university degree from an accredited institution may be eligible for direct admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Professional Years (Years 3), provided required course credits have been completed.
Applicants who achieved a minimum grade of 70% in the following courses during their previous degree will be considered for admission to Year 3 of the BSW program:
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SWLF 1006 Introduction to Social Welfare
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SWRK 1007 Introduction to Social Work
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SWRK 2006 Foundations of Social Work Practice
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SWRK 2106 Critical Social Policy for Social Work
Graduates of the BSW program are eligible to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and practise the regulated act of social work in Ontario.
Admission Requirements to Social Work (Professional Years)
Use the College/University Transfer Admissions button below, select transferring from University and select the Social Work program in that page.
- For equivalences from other institutions, please contact the Registrar’s Office: [email protected]
- For more information on how to complete the BSW program as a second degree, please contact [email protected]
Resources
Program Related
Why Nipissing's Social Work Program?
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our BSW program covers the core aspects of social work, including social welfare, human rights, community development, and policy analysis, providing a well-rounded education in both theory and practice.
Hands-On Learning
Through field placements and practical learning experiences, you will gain the skills needed to work directly with clients in a variety of settings, such as healthcare, community services, and government programs.
Expert Faculty
Our experienced faculty members are passionate about teaching and mentoring students, providing personalized attention and sharing real-world insights from their careers in social work.
Focus on Social Justice
With an emphasis on social justice, equity, and human rights, our program empowers students to become advocates for marginalized communities and work towards positive change in society.
Strong Community Connections
Our partnerships with local organizations and agencies provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience and build valuable professional networks.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.
General Admission Requirements include:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses
Future Careers
A Bachelor of Social Work degree from Nipissing University prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Graduates may pursue roles in:
Social Services & Case Management
Social workers, case managers, child and family support workers, and community outreach workers
Health & Mental Health Settings
Mental health workers, hospital social service staff, addiction support workers, and palliative care support workers
Community & Social Development
Community development officers, housing support workers, program coordinators, and advocacy workers
Government & Public Services
Policy analysts, child protection workers, probation and parole officers, and public service professionals
Non-Profit & Advocacy Organizations
Program managers, outreach coordinators, anti-poverty advocates, and settlement workers
Real People, Real Impact
I very much enjoy the Bachelor of Social Work program because of how welcoming it is. The smaller class sizes make it easier to engage and collaborate with my peers, and last but not least I like how I can take a variety of classes that can inspire me to extend my future academic career.
Sydney D.
Class of 2029
The perspective of [the facultys’] experience is very valuable and inspirational, and he made each student feel included and valued.
Autumn P.
Class of 2028
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.
Request More Info
Explore Other Programs
Notes:
- This program does not follow the same degree format as the majority of other programs. This program you can either graduate with an Honours degree or a degree without Honours.
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Intake: Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer (Year 1 and 2) | Fall (Year 3 & 4 Professional Years)
- Course load: Part-time option only available the first 2 years.
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.