Master Of Social Work - Gerontology - (Thesis) 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 a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a specialization in Gerontology. This program is designed to prepare students for advanced generalist social work practice, focusing on individuals, families, communities, and organizations. The MSW program is available at both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses, providing a welcoming and supportive learning environment. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of knowledge, values, and skills necessary for effective social work practice, particularly in diverse and rural settings. Students will engage in interdisciplinary learning, collaborating with various departments to enhance their understanding of gerontological issues.

Program Structure

The Master of Social Work - Gerontology program at Lakehead University is structured to provide a flexible 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 begin in a project track and 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 specialization in areas such as gerontology.
Interdisciplinary collaboration with five departments enhances the learning experience.

This structure ensures that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to their interests and career goals, particularly in the field of gerontology.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Social Work - Gerontology program offers several unique experiences that enhance student learning and professional development:

Interdisciplinary learning opportunities through collaboration with multiple departments.
Access to a variety of resources and expertise in gerontology.
Field practicum placements that provide real-world experience in social work settings.
Research opportunities focused on gerontological issues, allowing students to contribute to the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Social Work - Gerontology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families facing challenges related to aging.
Gerontological Consultant: Advise organizations on best practices for serving older adults and improving their quality of life.
Program Coordinator: Develop and manage programs aimed at enhancing services for seniors in community settings.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to aging and social services, advocating for the needs of older adults.
Researcher: Conduct research on gerontological issues, contributing to the body of knowledge in social work and aging.

These career options reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work and gerontology.

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 2025-06-12

Program overview

Academic Requirements

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

Applicants must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute.
A four-year undergraduate degree in social work is required, with at least a "B" average.
Masters candidates must have completed an acceptable full credit undergraduate course in research methodology and statistics.
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.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.

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. 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:

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!