Becoming a Social Worker

Aspiring to be a Social worker generally involves contacting the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and ask for specific requirements needed for becoming a registered or licensed social worker in Ontario. Requirements could change from        year to year. It would mean attending a university social work program in Canada and completing a degree in social work. You will need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (or a comparable bachelor’s degree that has social work-relevant course content) to get a license. Also it is helpful if the program is accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work. Various universities in Ontario have accredited social work programs such as University of Toronto, University of Windsor, University of Waterloo, York University, Carleton University and Ryerson University. There are other universities as well that have social work programs in Ontario. 

If you completed some coursework or a  credential at a recognized university outside Canada, you may be eligible for some transfer credit. If you hold a B.SW. degree from another country, you may not be required to  take additional courses, instead, you may be eligible for direct licensure. It is advisable to contact CASSW. A career in Social work requires some basic qualities and skills;  Some of which are highlighted here. A social worker amongst other qualities must be  compassionate, empathetic,  have good listening skills, good organisational skills, and problem solving skills . Social workers often work with people who are in stressful and difficult situations. To develop strong relationships, they must have compassion and empathy for their clients. Clients talk to social workers about challenges in their lives. To effectively help, social workers must listen to and understand their clients’ needs .The job involves helping and managing multiple clients, often assisting with their paperwork or documenting their treatment, hence a good organizational skills is required.

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By Tunji Irelewuyi, BSW, MBA (RSW) – Author is a  registered member of Ontario College of Social Work and a Principal partner of Goshen Support Services Inc.