Lakehead University offers an innovative Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses. 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 curriculum emphasizes the essential knowledge, values, and skills required for professional practice in diverse environments, including those characterized by low population density and a mix of formal services. With a focus on advanced professional practice, students can choose between a project or thesis track, allowing for a tailored educational experience.
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.
Students initially enter the program through the project track, with the option to switch to the thesis track after consultation with faculty supervisors.
Each student selects a specific field of practice to focus their coursework and field practicum, allowing for specialization in areas such as child welfare, mental health, and gerontology.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary learning are available, particularly for those pursuing specializations in Gender and Women's Studies or Gerontology.
This program is designed to accommodate the unique needs of students, ensuring a supportive and engaging academic environment.
Featured Experiences
The Master of Social Work program at Lakehead University offers several unique features and experiences that enhance the educational journey:
Field practicum opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments, particularly for students specializing in Gerontology.
Access to a supportive faculty who are approachable and dedicated to student success.
Specialization options in Gender and Women's Studies, providing a critical understanding of gender as a category of analysis.
Research opportunities that allow students to engage in advanced scholarly inquiry.
These experiences are designed to prepare students for effective practice in diverse social work environments.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Social Work program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:
Clinical Social Worker: Provides therapy and support to individuals and families dealing with mental health issues.
Child Welfare Worker: Works with children and families to ensure safety and well-being, often in collaboration with government agencies.
School Social Worker: Supports students in educational settings, addressing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges.
Gerontological Social Worker: Specializes in working with older adults, focusing on their unique needs and challenges.
Community Development Worker: Engages with communities to promote social change and improve quality of life through various programs and initiatives.
These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a meaningful impact in various sectors of 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.
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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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