Honours Bachelor Social Work (HBSW)

The Honours Bachelor of Social Work program at Lakehead University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to begin a professional career in social work. Delivered through small class sizes, innovative teaching approaches, and strong placement opportunities, the program offers a challenging and meaningful learning experience applicable to a wide range of practice settings. Faculty members bring extensive practice and research expertise into the classroom, supporting students through an engaging and student-centered environment. With a focus on the social service needs of northern and rural communities, the program is grounded in an ecological perspective that emphasizes understanding individuals within the context of their broader environments.

The four-year Honours Bachelor of Social Work (HBSW) program combines foundational academic study with advanced professional training. In the first two years, students complete introductory social welfare and human development courses alongside electives outside of social work, building a broad knowledge base before applying for entry into the professional years. The final two years focus on core social work competencies, including interviewing and communication skills, theory, social policy, research, and practice with Indigenous communities. A significant component of the program is field education, where students gain hands-on experience working with clients in human service agencies under supervision. Through this blend of coursework and practicum, students develop integrated practice skills to support individuals holistically across diverse social service contexts.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent.

What You’ll Learn

• Understand human development, social welfare systems, and social policy.
• Build practical skills in interviewing, communication, and client support.
• Apply social work theory using an ecological and holistic approach.
• Gain real-world experience through supervised field placements.