University of Victoria

Overview

The Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing) program at the University of Victoria is tailored for qualified social work graduates seeking to enhance their advanced practice, policy, and research capabilities. With a blended learning format that includes an initial on-campus component, this program is designed to accommodate working professionals while cultivating leadership skills for socially just practices.

• Level: Master’s (Master of Social Work)
• Entry pathway: Advanced Standing (for eligible BSW graduates)
• Typical duration: 24 months
• Delivery format: Blended learning with a mandatory on-campus session and distance learning components
• Credits/units: 15 units of study
• Language of instruction: English
• Application basis: Competitive entry; availability may vary

What you'll study

The MSW (Advanced Standing) consists of 15 units of graduate study. Students will engage in required coursework and can select a completion option that aligns with their professional and academic aspirations.

Completion options:

• Thesis option: Focused on research
• Course-based completion option: Comprehensive completion through coursework

Sample course themes:

• Policy Context of Practice
• Contemporary Debates and Ethical Dilemmas in Social Work
• Knowledge and Inquiry: Re-Theorizing Social Work
• Transnational Social Work
• Research Methodologies
• Indigenous Resistance, Resurgence and Revitalization for Helpers

Field education:

Students complete field-based learning to bridge theory with practice in real-world settings. Field education expectations and placements are coordinated through the School of Social Work.

Entry requirements

Academic background:

• Applicants must possess a BSW from an accredited School of Social Work.
• Admission is competitive and may be subject to availability each year.

Minimum academic performance:

• Minimum GPA: 6.0 (B+) or higher, as required by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and program regulations.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: 6.5 (minimum)
• TOEFL iBT: 90 (minimum)
• PTE Academic: 65 (minimum)

Work and/or human service experience:

• Human service experience is required for all program entries.

Application documents:

• Submit all application materials through the online application to the Graduate Admissions and Records Office.
• Additional program-specific details are provided by UVic’s School of Social Work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing) program may pursue various career paths within the field of social work. With the skills gained, graduates are well-equipped to take on leadership roles, engage in policy development, or conduct research in diverse settings. Additionally, upon completion, graduates may be eligible to work in Canada under the post-graduation work options, contingent on meeting immigration requirements.