溫哥華島大學(xué)

The purpose of the Bachelor of Social Work degree program at Vancouver Island University is to provide social work education that addresses local, national and global needs.

The goals of the program are derived from the mission statement which seeks to promote the capacity of individuals and communities; to address social issues emanating from the absence of equality and opportunity; and to promote social justice by producing graduates who demonstrate capability in the areas of clinical intervention, research and community development. In addition, this Social Work program will link colleagues in the faculty and other disciplines within the broader Vancouver Island University community with local, national, and/or international organizations. Community study will focus on physical, historical, economic and social dimensions, and the diversity of cultural backgrounds of individual members; encourage critical analysis about the environmental, economic, and social conditions that contribute to community capacity building; incorporate a collaborative approach to community-based social work that includes the application of skills and knowledge and understanding through study within specific focus areas: Disabilities, Older Adults, and Child Welfare.

Career Opportunities

Social workers obtain employment in social, educational and health organizations as well as private practice. Social workers assist individuals, families, groups and communities through their work in hospitals, community-based organizations, child welfare agencies, school districts, agencies serving Aboriginal people and human rights agencies that promote the interests of those experiencing inequality in our communities.

Specialization: Child Welfare

A Child Welfare Specialization within the program is available for a limited number of students admitted to the Bachelor of Social Work degree program. Students in a Child Welfare Specialization will complete their fourth year field education in a delegated child protection office. Placement preference will be determined by an applicant's GPA in SOCW 362, SOCW 403, and SOCW 421. Should a tie occur, seats will be allocated for these applicants based on their overall GPA in all Year 3 and Year 4 SOCW courses. Interested students must apply for the specialized field education placement by June 1 prior to entry into their fourth year of the BSW program and anticipate meeting all prerequisite requirements for SOCW 480. Applicants are also required to meet all criteria for Field Education placements located in the Student Field Education Guide. Child Welfare field education placements are block placements and students are required to complete 350 hours concurrent with SOCW 400B. Students completing the BSW program in two years will typically also be enrolled in SOCW 401 and a Social Work elective.

Career Opportunities

Social workers obtain employment in social, educational and health organizations as well as private practice. Social workers assist individuals, families, groups and communities through their work in hospitals, community-based organizations, child welfare agencies, school districts, agencies serving Aboriginal people and human rights agencies that promote the interests of those experiencing inequality in our communities.