Make a difference through a career dedicated to social justice, human rights, equity and community change. As a leader in critical social work education, York's School of Social Work combines a contemporary curriculum, hands-on learning and impactful research to prepare you to work with individuals, families, marginalized groups and communities facing complex social challenges.
York University's Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited and recognized by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE), meeting the educational standards required for professional social work practice nationally and internationally. Following completion of the program, graduates may register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), which establishes professional entry-to-practice requirements. Members of the OCSWSSW hold the designation of Registered Social Worker. Learn more about registration requirements.
You can enter the program through either the BSW Direct Entry pathway from high school or community college, or the BSW Post-Degree Entry pathway if you have already completed a three-year (90-credit) or four-year (120-credit) degree. The program is offered in person at York's Keele Campus.
What you’ll learn
- Community-based research practices
- Racial and colonial discourses in social work
- Diversity Inclusion & Belonging
- International Social Work
- Social Welfare and Human Services
- Indigenous Social Work
- Sexuality, Race & Ethnicity
- Social Justice in social work
Hands-on experiences
- In-class and unpaid course placement opportunities for credit
- A required degree placement that follows accreditation standards, which is very different from a regular internship or co-op
- Required volunteer work within the community
- Guest speakers in most classes, which include front-line professionals and those who work within social services in the community
- Role-play as a learning method in some courses
- Community research projects
My education at York has helped me achieve my goals by fostering an interest in knowledge and skill development. During my educational career at York I was able to attend various training sessions and leadership opportunities which allowed me to develop practical knowledge and add professional skills to my resume.
— Deandre Bonnelle
Alumna, Social Work '17
The School of Social work offers a well-rounded education in theory, practice and principles of Social Work from key scholars and practitioners in the discipline and their application in everyday life through a balanced combination of cutting-edge courses. A rich array of field practica opens up the doors to future practice. And guess what? Every faculty’s door is open for you to discuss your dreams!
— Soma Chatterjee
Professor, Social Work
Interested in this program?
As a future student if you fill out this form you will be entered into a draw for a chance to win 1 of 4 $50 YU Bookstore gift cards. See full contest details.
