Honours Bachelor Of Social Work at Lakehead University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-25

Program overview

The Honours Bachelor of Social Work (HBSW) program at Lakehead University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive theoretical foundation in social work. This program emphasizes the development of professional skills necessary for effective intervention with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences that prepare them for a rewarding career in social work, focusing on both academic and practical aspects of the field.

Program structure

The Honours Bachelor of Social Work program is structured to span four years, with students required to complete a series of foundational courses before entering the professional years. The program includes:

Introductory courses in the first two years, including SOWK 1100, SOWK 2011, and SOWK 2012.
A total of eight non-Social Work full course equivalent (FCE) electives during the first two years.
Application to the professional years (third and fourth years) through a formal process, including references and a personal statement.
Field practicum component, requiring a criminal reference/vulnerable sector check prior to commencement.

Students have the option to choose between full-time or part-time admission, although status is not interchangeable without re-application. The program encourages students to gain volunteer experience in social service settings to enhance their practical skills.

Featured Experiences

The Honours Bachelor of Social Work program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Field education opportunities in various community settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and correctional services.
Access to individual academic guidance from faculty members, fostering closer contact and support.
Active participation in the Social Work Student Association (S.W.S.A.), which organizes social activities and volunteer projects.
Opportunities for hands-on experience prior to applying for the professional years, encouraging practical skill development.
Postgraduate Master of Social Work program available for students interested in further education.

Career Options

Graduates of the Honours Bachelor of Social Work program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families facing challenges, including mental health issues and family dynamics.
Community Service Manager: Oversee social service programs and lead community initiatives to improve the well-being of residents.
Child Welfare Worker: Work with children and families to ensure safety and well-being, often in collaboration with government agencies.
School Social Worker: Support students' emotional and social development within educational settings, addressing issues such as bullying and family problems.
Healthcare Social Worker: Assist patients in navigating healthcare systems, providing emotional support and resources during medical challenges.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2026-03-25

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Honours Bachelor of Social Work program at Lakehead University, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

Completion of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD);
A minimum of 6 Grade 12U or M courses, or equivalent, including program-specific prerequisite courses;
A minimum overall final average of 70%;

For international students, the following requirements apply:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Completed a minimum of 1 year of full-time academic studies at an accredited college since leaving high school;
Completed the appropriate program-specific prerequisite courses;
Achieved a minimum overall average of 70%.

Alternatively, applicants may qualify by:

Attending a university and successfully completing university-level coursework since leaving high school/college;
Meeting program-specific prerequisite courses;
Achieving a minimum overall average of C or 60%.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate they can cope with the language demands of an English language university and will be required to present proof of English language proficiency. Lakehead University may consider the following as proof of English language proficiency:

Language Tests:

To satisfy Lakehead University's English language proficiency requirements, applicants can complete one of the following recognized language tests with the required minimum scores:

Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) or CAEL CE (Computer Edition) or CAEL Online - Minimum Score: 60
Cambridge Academic English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency) - Minimum Score: 176 (no individual score less than 169)
Duolingo English Test - Minimum Score: 120 (no individual sub-score less than 115)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Minimum Score: 6.5 (no individual score less than 6.0)
Michigan English Test (MET) - Minimum Score: 85
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Minimum Score: 58 (no component score less than 50)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Minimum Score: 80 (no component score less than 19) for Internet Based Test (iBT)

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!