Master Of Social Work at Laurentian University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Laurentian University is designed to engage students in personal and community change. This program emphasizes core courses in social policy, social work practice, and research methods, alongside selected professional electives. Students will also undertake graduate research, culminating in either a thesis or an advanced practicum. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address complex social issues and contribute positively to society.

Program structure

The Master of Social Work program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a maximum of three semesters. Key features of the program structure include:

Core courses: 12 credits
Elective courses: 6 credits
Graduate Research Project: 12 credits

Students can choose to enroll either as full-time or part-time students, with classes scheduled in 4-day blocks from Wednesday to Saturday, allowing flexibility for those who are employed full-time. The program is delivered on campus in English, and students have the option to take advanced courses in related disciplines, subject to approval. The program is competitive, with approximately 15-20 spaces available each year.

Featured Experiences

Students engage in a graduate research project that can take the form of a thesis or an advanced practicum.
Classes are structured in 4-day blocks, facilitating attendance for working professionals.
Opportunities for advanced placements in new areas of practice, enhancing practical experience.
Students may participate in independent study through reading seminars, allowing for specialization in topics of interest.
Core courses are available in both fall and winter sessions, with electives offered every spring on a rotating basis.

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.
Social Policy Analyst: Researches and analyzes social policies to recommend improvements and advocate for change.
Community Development Worker: Works with communities to develop programs and initiatives that address local needs and enhance social well-being.
School Social Worker: Supports students in educational settings, addressing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges.
Healthcare Social Worker: Assists patients in navigating healthcare systems, providing support and resources for recovery and well-being.

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 2025-07-10

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The regulations of the School of Graduate Studies apply unless otherwise stipulated. The normal academic requirement for admission is a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a university recognized by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE), with a 75% average (or better) in their undergraduate study.

Exceptional circumstances: Candidates who hold a four-year degree in a discipline related to social work, with above-average (80%+) grades, and at least five years of professional experience in the human services, will also be considered for admission. In cases where admission is granted on exceptional grounds, students may be required to successfully complete specified undergraduate courses in practice theory, social policy, or research methods, prior to registering in graduate courses in the same area.

International students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, should ensure they meet the academic requirements and may need to provide additional documentation as specified by the university. It is advisable to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Admission decisions are based on:

Academic performance (grades)
Professional experience (range and depth of activity / professional accomplishment / community involvement)
Personal qualities (self-direction / leadership ability)
Research orientation (intellectual focus, clarity, and fit in relation to program strengths and university mission)

For those interested in the program, it is important to prepare the necessary documents, including:

Three Reference Forms
Applicant essay
Curriculum Vitae/Resume
Official Academic Transcript(s) from all post-secondary studies

For any further details or assistance, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to help you navigate through the Academic Requirements and application process.

Language Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Master of Social Work program, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following accepted tests:

Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) - Minimum score of 88 overall
IELTS Academic - Minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no band lower than 6.0
Cambridge Assessment English - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a Cambridge Score of 176 or more
CAEL - Canadian Academic English Language Assessment - Minimum score of 70 overall, with no part below 60
Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST) - Minimum score of 4.5 overall, with no part below 4
PTE Academic - Pearson Test of English - Minimum score of 60 overall
DuoLingo English Test - Minimum score of 125 overall, with no individual subscore in Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening lower than 110

Note: English language test scores are valid if completed within 2 years of when we review your application.

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!