Lakehead University offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree with a specialization in Gerontology. This program is designed to prepare advanced generalist social workers for effective practice with individuals, families, and communities across various contexts, including urban centers and rural areas. The MSW program emphasizes a welcoming learning environment, facilitated by approachable faculty members. Students will engage in a curriculum that focuses on essential knowledge, values, and skills necessary for professional practice in diverse settings, including First Nations communities and areas with low population density. The program is available at both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses, providing students with a unique opportunity to tailor their learning experience.
Program structure
The Master of Social Work (MSW) 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.
Students are initially accepted into the project track, with the option to switch to the thesis track after consultation with faculty supervisors.
Each student selects a field of practice to focus their coursework, field practicum, and project or thesis on.
Specialization areas may include child welfare, mental health, juvenile justice, employment and income security, school social work, and gerontology.
Overall, the program is designed to foster specialized learning tailored to the interests and career goals of each student, ensuring a robust educational experience.
Featured Experiences
The MSW program with a specialization in Gerontology at Lakehead University offers several unique features and experiences that enhance the learning journey:
Interdisciplinary collaboration with five departments, providing a broad perspective on gerontological issues.
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.
Research and theory in Gerontology are integrated into the curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field.
These experiences are designed to prepare students for effective practice in various social work contexts, particularly those related to aging and gerontology.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a specialization in Gerontology can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada. Potential job roles include:
Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families, addressing social issues and improving quality of life.
Gerontological Social Worker: Specialize in working with older adults, focusing on their unique needs and challenges.
Community Service Manager: Oversee social service programs and lead initiatives that support community well-being.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to aging, social services, and community health.
Program Coordinator: Design and implement programs aimed at improving services for older adults and their families.
These roles highlight the diverse career paths available to graduates, emphasizing the importance of social work in addressing the needs of aging populations in Canada.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
Applicants for admission must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute as well as show evidence of scholarly achievement. Except where otherwise stated in the Admission Requirements of a particular program, degree students must have a four year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least second class standing (B) based on their last 20 half courses or equivalent.
For applicants from countries that follow a British-patterned grading system, please note:
Overall standings are normally reported in lieu of an average. The CGPA can be determined on the basis of annual or overall standings as reported on the transcript or degree certificate.
A minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
The National Diploma and Higher National Diploma are not recognized for admission to a graduate-level program.
Be sure to include a copy of your institution grading scale when uploading your transcripts.
An applicant holding a degree other than one in the discipline area to which admission is sought will be considered on the basis of courses taken and academic standing.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission. No candidate will be admitted unless the academic unit recommends admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.
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Program Specific Requirements
In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, the following requirements also apply:
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. Be sure to include your interest in the thesis route when completing your Study Plan.
It should be noted that satisfaction of basic admissions requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program. The School offers a one-year HBSW degreefor those already holding an undergraduate degree in another discipline, which may be used to gain the basic academic qualification for admission to the MSW program
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Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
Accepted tests and minimum scores:
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) or CAEL CE (Computer Edition) or CAEL Online: 60
Cambridge Academic English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): 176 (no individual score less than 169)
Duolingo English Test: 120 (no individual sub-score less than 115)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5 (no individual score less than 6.0)
Michigan English Test (MET): 85
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 58 (no component score less than 50)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Institution Code 0888: 4.5 overall (no section below 4.0) for tests completed as of January 2026; Internet Based Test (iBT) 80 (no component score less than 19) for valid tests taken prior to January 2026
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.
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