Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Wilfrid Laurier University prepares students for advanced professional practice within the evolving field of social services. As a discipline focused on the complex interaction of human and environmental factors, social work seeks to address and prevent personal and social challenges experienced by individuals, families, groups, and communities. The program emphasizes the importance of contributing to meaningful institutional change while promoting social functioning and well-being across diverse populations and settings.

Designed to develop highly qualified practitioners, the MSW program equips students with advanced theoretical knowledge and specialized practice skills for roles in clinical, community, policy, planning, administration, and research contexts. Field education plays a central role in this preparation, offering opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world environments while building a strong professional identity. Through placements in a variety of settings, students engage with individuals and groups, participate in community development initiatives, and contribute to policy and research activities, gaining the integrated experience needed for effective and ethical social work practice.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from an accredited program at a university of recognized standing.
• Successful applicants typically have 2+ years (3,500 hours) of human services experience.

What You’ll Learn

• Apply advanced social work theories and interventions in clinical and community settings.
• Develop skills in policy development, research, and program planning.
• Strengthen professional identity through supervised field education experiences.
• Address complex social issues affecting individuals, families, groups, and communities.