Master Of Social Work - Gerontology - (Project) at Lakehead University - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Program overview

Lakehead University offers an innovative Master of Social Work (MSW) degree with a specialization in Gerontology. This program is designed to train advanced generalist social workers who can effectively engage with individuals, families, communities, and organizations across various contexts, including urban centers and rural areas. The MSW program emphasizes a welcoming learning environment, facilitated by approachable faculty and smaller campus settings in Thunder Bay and Orillia. The curriculum is tailored to equip students with the essential knowledge, values, and skills necessary for professional practice in diverse settings, including First Nations communities and areas with low population density.

Program structure

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Lakehead University is structured to provide a comprehensive and individualized learning experience. The program is designed to be completed within six terms (2 years) of continuous registration. Key features of the program structure include:

Students are initially accepted into a project track, with the option to switch to a thesis track after consultation with faculty supervisors.
Each student selects a specific field of practice to focus their coursework, field practicum, and project or thesis around.
Specialization areas may include child welfare, mental health, juvenile justice, employment and income security, school social work, gerontology, and gender and women's studies.

This flexible structure allows students to tailor their educational journey according to their interests and career goals, ensuring a personalized approach to their studies.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Social Work program at Lakehead University offers several unique features and experiences that enhance the learning process:

Interdisciplinary collaboration with five departments, providing a broad perspective on gerontology.
Access to multifaceted resources and opportunities to work alongside complementary disciplines.
Field practicum placements that allow students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Emphasis on advanced professional practice, preparing students for various roles in social work.

These experiences are designed to enrich the educational journey and prepare students for impactful careers in social work.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a specialization in Gerontology can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families facing challenges, including mental health issues and social injustices.
Gerontologist: Specialize in the study of aging and work with older adults to improve their quality of life through various programs and services.
Community Outreach Coordinator: Develop and implement programs that address the needs of specific populations, particularly seniors and marginalized communities.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to social services, focusing on issues affecting the elderly and vulnerable populations.
Program Director: Oversee social service programs, ensuring they meet the needs of the community and comply with regulations.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a significant impact in their communities.

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

Visit Lakehead University official website

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Lakehead University, applicants must meet specific academic requirements to be considered for admission. Here are the key points:

Applicants must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute.
A four-year bachelor's degree or its equivalent is required, with at least a second class standing (B) based on the last 20 half courses or equivalent.
For applicants from countries that follow a British-patterned grading system, a minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
All candidates must hold a four-year undergraduate degree in social work with at least a "B" average.
Masters candidates are required to have completed a full 1.0 FCE (or two 0.5 FCEs) undergraduate research course(s).
Applicants interested in the thesis route must apply to the project route initially and indicate their interest in the thesis route when completing their Study Plan.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to ensure that your academic qualifications align with the requirements stated above. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as all applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.

For any clarification or support regarding the application process, please feel free to 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:

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)

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!