Social Work York University

Overview

Overview

The Social Work BSW program at York University is a broad profession that seeks to help people interact more effectively with one another and with the environment. As our society becomes increasingly complex, people in both urban and rural settings experience a corresponding increase in problems related to meeting basic human needs such as employment, adequate income level, healthcare, family relationships and mental health.

The School of Social Work fosters intellectual curiosity and a spirit of inquiry through its emphasis on critical perspectives in social work. In light of its belief in social work as social justice work, the School consistently teaches applied practice skills throughout the curriculum. This curriculum is designed in collaboration with professors, students, field instructors and community representatives to ensure our program responds to the needs of people in their social environments.

You can enter York’s Social Work program two ways:

• The direct entry program accepts students in their first year of university. You don't need a degree to apply to this program. This is a full-time program with courses offered during the day and evening and takes four years to complete. In the first year, you will concentrate on social sciences, humanities and natural science courses. In the final year, you are required to complete a field placement – giving you vital hands-on experience – in a social service setting.
• The post-degree program requires you to have a university degree to be admitted. This program offers courses in the day and evening and could take a minimum of two years to complete. The post-degree program was developed for university graduates who are social work practitioners or who want to pursue a career in social work. You will be exposed to contemporary and socially relevant issues that address the many techniques and approaches used by social work professions as well as partake in a practicum experience that places you in real social work environments.

You will receive a special social work education that is characterized by a commitment to human rights and social justice. Dedicated instructors, who draw from a strong contemporary curriculum and their own practical experience, give you the opportunity to develop your own social work philosophies and teach applied practice skills throughout the curriculum. You will graduate equipped for practice in a wide variety of social work arenas, from work with individuals and families to practice with community, policy, research and international settings.

• We’re recognized as one of the most progressive and socially responsive social work programs in Canada.
• Each year, the program holds a Field Fair which will give you the chance to meet and network with professionals from a wide range of social agencies.

Possible Career Paths

• Agency counsellor
• Child welfare worker
• Community worker
• Mental health worker