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

Last updated on 2025-06-12

Program overview

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 is available at both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses, providing a welcoming learning environment with approachable faculty. The curriculum emphasizes the essential knowledge, values, and skills required for professional practice in diverse settings, including those characterized by low population density and diverse First Nations communities.

Program Structure

The Master of Social Work program at Lakehead University is structured to provide a comprehensive and individualized learning experience. Key features of the program include:

Program Length: Students must complete all requirements within six terms (2 years) of continuous registration.
Project Track: All students are initially accepted into the project track, with the option to switch to a thesis track after consultation with faculty supervisors.
Field of Practice: Each student selects a specific field of practice to focus their coursework, field practicum, and project or thesis on.
Specialization Options: Students can specialize in areas such as child welfare, mental health, juvenile justice, employment and income security, school social work, gerontology, and gender and women's studies.

This structure allows for a tailored educational experience that aligns with the students' interests and career goals.

Featured Experiences

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

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The Gerontology specialization collaborates with five departments, providing students with a multifaceted learning perspective.
Field Practicum: Students engage in practical experiences that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Research Focus: Students have the opportunity to conduct research and complete projects with a gerontological focus, enhancing their understanding of aging and related issues.
Supportive Environment: Smaller campuses and approachable faculty create a welcoming atmosphere for students.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Social Work program with a specialization in Gerontology can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families, focusing on issues related to aging and mental health.
Gerontologist: Specialize in the study of aging, working in research, policy development, or direct service roles.
Community Outreach Coordinator: Develop and implement programs that support older adults in the community.
Program Director: Oversee programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for seniors.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to aging and social services, advocating for the needs of older adults.

These roles allow graduates to make a significant impact in the lives of older adults and 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

Last updated on 2025-06-12

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Lakehead University, applicants must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute.
Evidence of scholarly achievement is required.
A four-year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least a second class standing (B) based on the last 20 half courses or equivalent.
For applicants from countries with a British-patterned grading system, a minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
Applicants must include a copy of their institution's grading scale when uploading transcripts.
Applicants holding a degree in a different discipline will be considered based on relevant courses taken and academic standing.
All candidates must hold a four-year undergraduate degree in social work with at least a "B" average.
Completion of an acceptable full credit undergraduate course in research methodology and statistics is required.
Applicants interested in the thesis route must initially apply to the project route and indicate their interest in the thesis route in their Study Plan.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. The academic unit must recommend admission, and all applicants will be informed of their admission status in writing by the Office of Graduate Studies.

Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

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

Language Requirements

Update: English language proficiency requirements have recently changed.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate they can cope with the language demands of an English language university. Lakehead University accepts the following as proof of English language proficiency:

Successful completion of one of the below language tests with the required minimum scores
Successful completion of Lakehead University’s Academic English Program
Successful completion of one of our approved Pathway Partner’s ESL programs
Successful completion of Senior Level English courses

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

Recognized English Proficiency Test	Minimum Score
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL)	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: 110
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 for Internet Based Test (iBT): 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!