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 practice in diverse settings, including urban, rural, and northern communities. The MSW program emphasizes the development of knowledge, values, and skills essential for effective social work practice. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment provided by approachable faculty and smaller campus settings in Thunder Bay and Orillia. The program aims to equip students with the necessary tools to address the complexities of social work, particularly in the context of gerontology, which focuses on the aging population and their unique needs.
Program structure
The Master of Social Work - Gerontology program at Lakehead University is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience. Key features of the program include:
Program Length: Students must complete all requirements within six terms (2 years) of continuous registration.
Students initially enter the project track but may request a change to the thesis track after consultation with faculty supervisors.
Each student selects a field of practice to focus their coursework and field practicum, allowing for a highly individualized learning experience.
Specialization options include areas such as child welfare, mental health, and, specifically, gerontology.
This program is designed to foster advanced professional practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers in social work.
Featured Experiences
The Master of Social Work - Gerontology program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience for students:
Interdisciplinary collaboration with five departments, providing a broad perspective on gerontological issues.
Access to multifaceted resources and opportunities to work alongside professionals from complementary disciplines.
Research and theory in gerontology are integrated into the curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Field practicum opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
These experiences are designed to prepare students for the complexities of social work practice, particularly in relation to aging populations.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Social Work - Gerontology program 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, focusing on the needs of the aging population.
Gerontologist: Specialize in the study of aging and work with organizations to develop programs that support older adults.
Community Service Manager: Oversee social service programs and lead initiatives that benefit elderly community members.
Clinical Social Worker: Offer therapy and counseling services to older adults dealing with mental health issues.
Policy Analyst: Research and analyze policies affecting the aging population, advocating for changes that improve their quality of life.
These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, emphasizing the importance of social work in addressing the needs of older adults in society.
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.
View English Language Proficiency Requirements
View Lakehead University Calendar Disclaimer
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
View Calendar
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.
Over 1,000 Global Students Succeed Abroad Each Year with LOA Portal
Begin your study abroad journey with expert guidance and a powerful platform built for you - with all services fully sponsored.
We use cookies to ensure you have the best browsing experience on our website. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Terms of service & Privacy policy.
