Master of Social Work (MSW)

The Master of Social Work program at Memorial University of Newfoundland was introduced in 2011 with a focus on creative approaches to critical thinking and leadership in diverse social work practices. The program emphasizes social justice, diversity, anti-oppressive practice, community development, social policy, research, and intervention with individuals, families, and groups. A distinctive feature of the curriculum is the PATHWAY mentoring initiative, which allows students to work closely with faculty members in specialized areas of social work knowledge and practice. This innovative mentorship model enhances student learning and provides a unique educational experience within Canadian MSW programs.

The program is offered on both a full-time and part-time basis, providing flexibility for students balancing academic, professional, and personal commitments. Students may choose either a course-based or thesis route and complete the program primarily online, while participating in mandatory institute components held on the St. John’s campus. These intensive institutes include six to eight days of classroom instruction designed to support collaborative and experiential learning. The curriculum also includes a mandatory 500-hour field practicum, which may be completed within a student’s local community when appropriate supervision is available, allowing students to integrate advanced theory with professional practice in real-world social work settings.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree (or an equivalent professional undergraduate degree in social work).

What You’ll Learn

• Develop leadership and critical thinking skills for diverse and socially responsive social work practice.
• Apply anti-oppressive, community development, and social justice approaches in professional settings.
• Gain advanced research, policy, and intervention skills for work with individuals, families, and groups.
• Build practical experience through mentorship opportunities and a supervised 500-hour field practicum.