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The Social Work Diploma is a two-year program that integrates knowledge and skills from social work, humanities, and behavioral sciences. This program equips students for professional practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities. Graduates find employment across various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private agencies. Those completing the diploma qualify to register as Social Workers in Alberta.
Acquire essential understanding of social work's historical context and ethical principles while developing critical thinking skills to analyze social problems and their effects. Combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills as you learn to assess situations, implement interventions, and offer support to individuals, families, and communities.
The Social Work Diploma adheres to professional practice standards, making graduates eligible for registration with the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW).
The practicum component provides hands-on experience to apply classroom learning. As a diploma requirement, students complete 700 hours of supervised field experience, bridging theory with real-world practice and enhancing employability after graduation.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Registered social worker, Family support specialist, Addiction and mental health counselor, Frontline social services worker
Community outreach coordinator, Social advocate, Youth and child welfare advocate
High School Applicant: must present a minimum admission average of 60%, calculated on the five appropriate Grade 12 courses.
Admission to the Social Work Diploma requires the following specific high school courses (or equivalents).
Applicants in all admission categories must present:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 86 (min. 20 in each of four sections)
IELTS (International English Language Test — Academic): 6.5 (min. 5.5 on each band)
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment): 70 (min. 60 in each band)
MET (Michigan English Test) (formerly Michigan English Language Assessment Battery MELAB): 62 (min. 53 in all four skills)
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): 58 (min. 55 in each area)
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency: 176
Application Deadline - April 1