Academic Requirements

The regulations of the School of Graduate Studies apply unless otherwise stipulated. Enrolment is limited. New students are admitted to the program for September intake.

Academic Requirements

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.

Candidates for admissions are ranked on the basis of academic performance (grades), professional experience (range and depth of activity / professional accomplishment / community involvement), personal qualities (self-direction / leadership ability), and research orientation (intellectual focus, clarity, and fit in relation to program strengths and university mission). Rankings are determined by an admissions committee on the basis of university transcripts, personal statements, letters of reference, and resume/curriculum vitae. Admission decisions cannot be appealed.

Documents:

• Three Reference Forms
• Applicant essay – see below for instructions
• Curriculum Vitae/Resume
• Official Academic Transcript(s) from all post secondary studies (Please note that current or prior Laurentian University students do not need to request transcripts)

Please note that official transcripts or WES course-by-course (for institutions attended outside of North America) must come directly to the Office of Admissions from the previous post secondary institution by requesting at the time of your application or by contacting the institution's Registrar's Office.

Applicant Essay

All applicants are required to submit an essay of up to 2,000 words. As used in the admissions process, this essay is viewed as one measure of the applicant’s conceptual abilities and expository writing skills. For those admitted to the program, it serves as an initial indication of the applicant’s expectations regarding specialization and general topic for the master’s thesis or advanced practicum project. In your essay, please address the following:

• What, from your socio-cultural perspective, do you bring to social work?
• What contribution to you see yourself making to social work in northern communities? (please include any innovative notions you may have in this regard)
• Carefully read the description of the M.S.W. program and outline of courses. Indicate your current preference for a thesis or advanced practicum. As specifically as you can, explain what topic might you consider for a research thesis or advanced practicum. What are your thoughts on how you would go about accomplishing this project?

Your essay will be evaluated carefully by the Admissions Committee for clarity, specificity, conceptualization, and feasibility.

Qualifying Year

Applicants with work experience who do not have the academic background necessary for admission directly into the M.S.W. program may be considered for a qualifying year program, which is tailored to their individual circumstances. Upon successful completion of the qualifying year program, students will be eligible to apply for admission to the M.S.W. program.

In addition to selected core courses in the undergraduate program, for example, social work policy, research, theory/practice courses (see B.S.W. course descriptions), qualifying year students may be required to complete the following:

• SWRK-4705EL - Field III This 450-hour field placement is intended for students enrolled in the qualifying of the Master of Social Work program. It is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to apply theory to practice and acquire the skills and knowledge required for a graduate program. (exp. 450) (6 credits)

Language Requirements

English Program Language Requirements

Academically admissible applicants who do not present the appropriate English proficiency requirements can complete one of the following approved English proficiency tests or English Academic Preparation (EAP) programs.

Presenting an Accepted English Proficiency Test

Laurentian University recognizes several language tests to demonstrate proficiency. English language test scores are valid if completed within 2 years of when your application is received.

Note: When registering for your language proficiency test, make sure that you select Laurentian University as the “Destination” or “Receiving Institution” of your score results so we can review and verify them online when we receive them. This option is available for most tests, including IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo.

Completion of an Approved English Language Program

Students can meet language requirements for direct entry by pursuing one of the 3 approved English Language Programs.

Note: Students who have applied to Architecture or Nursing are not eligible for conditional admission with the EAP, as these admissions cannot be deferred.

Laurentian University's EAP Program

Complete Laurentian University's EAP Level 3 (CEFR C1) with a minimum overall score of 70%.

• Only available to students that demonstrate evidence they have attained a CEFR B2 - Upper Intermediate score. Students must submit an approved English Language test to be considered.
• This program is offered at Laurentian University with intakes in September, January and May.
• Each level of the program is 11 weeks.

Oxford International Digital Institute

Completing Oxford's International Digital Institute Online Pre-Sessional English program with an ELLT score of 7, with no band lower than 6.

This program offers flexible starts and a customized journey for each learner!

Exigences linguistiques pour les programmes en français

Afin d’être admis à un programme offert en français ou à un programme bilingue, il faut remplir l’un des critères suivants.

Enseignement en français

Vous avez effectué trois années d’études à plein temps dans une école secondaire ou un établissement postsecondaire où le français est la langue d’enseignement (avec documents officiels à l’appui).

Les élèves du secondaire de l'Ontario qui obtiennent le certificat d'immersion en français à une école secondaire de langue anglaise sont aussi exemptés, car ils ont satisfait aux exigences du diplôme en suivant des cours de français et des matières enseignées en français.

Soumettre le résultat d’un test de compétence en français reconnu

Si vous n'avez pas suivi d'études secondaires ou postsecondaires en français, vous pouvez démontrer votre maîtrise du français en passant l'un des tests suivants.

Remarque: Lorsque vous vous inscrivez à votre test de compétence linguistique, veillez à sélectionner l'Université Laurentienne comme « destination » ou « établissement destinataire » de vos résultats afin que nous puissions les examiner et les vérifier en ligne dès leur réception. Cette option est disponible pour la plupart des tests.

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.