120 units total (Levels I to IV), of which 48 units may be Level I

30 units

From the Level I program. (See Admission below.)

12 units

• SOCWORK 2A06 A/B - Theory, Process and Communication Skills for Social Work
• SOCWORK 2BB3 - Social Work and Social Welfare: Anti-Oppressive Perspectives
• SOCWORK 2CC3 - Introduction to Community Practice

• (SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, SOCWORK 2BB3 and SOCWORK 2CC3 must be completed prior to enrolling in SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S)

12 units

• SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S - General Social Work I
• SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum I

• (SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S must be completed prior to enrolling in SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S)

12 units

• SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S - General Social Work II
• SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum II

15 units

• SOCWORK 3E03 - Individual Practice Across the Lifespan
• SOCWORK 3F03 - Social Work with Groups
• SOCWORK 4J03 - Social Change: Social Movements and Advocacy
• SOCWORK 4X03 - Social Work with Families
• SOCWORK 4ZZ3 - Social Welfare: Practice Implications and Advocacy

   

9 units

• Nine additional units selected from the Social and Political Context of Social Work courses

3 units

• Social Sciences Research Methods

3 units

• INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies

  Note: If this course was taken in level I then students must complete three additional elective units

24-27 units

• Electives * A maximum of 12 additional units of Social and Political Context of Social Work courses can be taken as electives.

Program Notes

1. Course Groupings: There are two groups of courses in the Social Work program:

   • Foundation of Social Work. This category includes core courses which are required by social work students, most of which and are available to social work students only. Exceptions to this include SOCWORK 2BB3 and SOCWORK 2CC3 which have a limited number of seats for undergraduates in a Labour Studies program and SOCWORK 4J03 which has a limited number of seats for undergraduates in a Labour Studies program and undergraduates in Level III or above of a non-Social Work/Labour Studies program who have completed SOCWORK 1AA3 or SOCWORK 1BB3.

   • Social and Political Context of Social Work. Social Work students must take 9 units from the Social and Political Context of Social Work group of courses. Social and Political Context of Social Work courses except SOCWORK 4SA3 and SOCWORK 4SB3 are also available for elective credit by undergraduates in the Labour Studies program and undergraduates in Level III or above of a non-Social Work program who have completed SOCWORK 1AA3 or SOCWORK 1BB3. Registration in SOCWORK 4SA3 and SOCWORK 4SB3 is restricted to Social Work students who have received permission of the School of Social Work. All Social and Political Context of Social Work courses have limited enrolment.

   • Foundations of Social Work

     • SOCWORK 2A06 A/B - Theory, Process and Communication Skills for Social Work 
     • SOCWORK 2BB3 - Social Work and Social Welfare: Anti-Oppressive Perspectives 
     • SOCWORK 2CC3 - Introduction to Community Practice 
     • SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S - General Social Work I 
     • SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum I 
     • SOCWORK 3E03 - Individual Practice Across the Lifespan 
     • SOCWORK 3F03 - Social Work with Groups 
     • SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S - General Social Work II 
     • SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum II 
     • SOCWORK 4J03 - Social Change: Social Movements and Advocacy 
     • SOCWORK 4X03 - Social Work with Families 
     • SOCWORK 4ZZ3 - Social Welfare: Practice Implications and Advocacy  

   • Social and Political Context of Social Work

     • SOCWORK 3B03 - Transnational Lives in a Globalizing World 
     • SOCWORK 3C03 - Social Aspects of Health and Illness 
     • SOCWORK 3L03 - Violence: Social Justice Perspectives and Responses 
     • SOCWORK 3O03 - Social Work and Sexualities 
     • SOCWORK 3Q03 - Indigenizing Social Work Practice Approaches 
     • SOCWORK 3S03 - Social Work, Disability and Dis/Ableism 
     • SOCWORK 3T03 - Poverty and Homelessness 
     • SOCWORK 4C03 - Critical Perspectives on Race, Racialization, Racism and Colonialism in Canadian Society 
     • SOCWORK 4G03 - Selected Topics 
     • SOCWORK 4I03 - Social Work and Indigenous Peoples 
     • SOCWORK 4R03 - Feminist Approaches to Social Work and Social Justice 
     • SOCWORK 4SA3 - Critical Child Welfare: From Theory to Practice Part I 
     • SOCWORK 4SB3 - Critical Child Welfare: From Theory to Practice Part II 
     • SOCWORK 4U03 - Immigration, Settlement and Social Work 
     • SOCWORK 4W03 - Child Welfare 
     • SOCWORK 4Y03 - Critical Issues in Mental Health & Addiction: Mad & Critical Disability Studies Perspectives for SW 
2. Progression Within Program: Students must achieve a minimum grade of C+ in each of SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, 2BB3, 2CC3, 3D06 A/B S, 3E03, 3F03, 4D06 A/B S, 4J03, 4X03 and 4ZZ3, a Pass in their field placements SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S, and a GPA of at least 6.0. If a student fails to meet the minimum grade requirements in these required social work courses or a Pass designation in either field placement (SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S), the student may not proceed in the program; however, the student may make a request in writing to the Director of the School of Social Work to be allowed to repeat the course in which the minimum grade or Pass requirement has not been met. Such requests will be reviewed by the Director of the School of Social Work in consultation with the Chair of the Undergraduate Studies Committee and/or the Chair of the Field Education Program and the course instructor. These courses and/or placements may only be repeated when approval is given by the Director of the School of Social Work following consultation as described above. Students who subsequently fail to meet the minimum grade or Pass requirement after repeating the course or placement may not continue in the program.
3. Students who were admitted to this program in 2017-2018 or later must complete INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies. If this course was taken in level I then students will be required to take an additional 3 units of electives.
4. Students must complete three units of Social Sciences Research Methods (e.g. SOCIOL 2Z03, SOCPSY 2K03 or HLTHAGE 2A03). A statistics course may not substitute for a research methods course.
5. Graduation: The B.S.W will be granted only if the student has achieved a grade of at least C+ in each of SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, 2BB3, 2CC3, 3D06 A/B S, 3E03, 3F03, 4D06 A/B S, 4J03, 4X03 and 4ZZ3, a Pass in SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S, and a GPA of at least 6.0.
6. Students are expected to assume the cost of travelling to and from field practice agencies and for any related expenses.
7. Students in the social work program must apply for third and fourth year field placements (SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S), and are able to rank their placements in terms of preference. While efforts are made to match placements with student preferences, the final assignment of placement settings is constrained by many factors, including the availability of settings and field and faculty resources. Students may therefore be required to complete a field placement in an agency that is not among their preferred options.

Students start in the Social Sciences Level 1 program and apply to the Social Work BSW Program at the end of their first year. 

Enrolment in this program is limited. Eligibility is dependent upon completion of any Level I program including six units of introductory Social Work or Sociology and and six additional units of introductory level courses from the Course List (or equivalent). Students who are interested in the Honours BSW are strongly encouraged to take both SOCWORK 1AA3 and SOCWORK 1BB3. Students are also encouraged to take INDIG ST 1A03: Introduction to Indigenous Studies, in level I as this course will be required for completion of the BSW. Admission requires, as a minimum, completion of any level I program with a grade point average of at least 6.0 and evidence of personal suitability which may be evaluated by one or a combination of written statements, tests or interviews.

Admission Notes

1. Students who have successfully completed the two-year College of Applied Arts and Technology Social Services Diploma with a minimum cumulative average Grade Point Average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (75%) are considered to have completed the equivalent of SOCWORK 1AA3 and SOCWORK 1BB3. Students who completed this diploma with a cumulative average of 3.4 - 4.0 (85%-100%) will receive 24 units of unspecified transfer credit upon admission to the program and are not required to complete six additional units of introductory level courses from the Course List to be eligible for admission.
2. An applicant must complete Level I by April of the year in which application is made.
3. Students who intend to apply for this program must follow the application instructions as found on the School of Social Work web site:www.socialwork.mcmaster.ca. Students who are unable to access this web site must consult the School of Social Work prior to the application deadline.
4. All applications for admission to the School of Social Work are considered annually and must be made directly to the School by February 1 for the Fall/Winter term.
5. Indigenous students (includes First Nations, Métis & Inuit) may select an alternate application process. Please see section below for full details. 
6. Applicants transferring from other universities (See Two-Tier Applications below) must also apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) by January 12 and must normally complete a total of six units of Introductory Sociology or introductory Social Work and six additional units from the Course List. 

Application Components

Admission scores are based 50% on results from the Social Work Admissions Test (SWAT) and 50% on a student’s GPA. 

1. Social Work Admission Test (S.W.A.T.) - value 50%
   
   In accordance with the evaluation criteria of the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, our admission procedures include assessment of personal suitability as well as academic capability. The S.W.A.T. is designed in an effort to draw on applicants' personal and professional experiences and preparatory study is not expected or necessary for the essay-style responses.  For information on the S.W.A.T. please see our S.W.A.T. information page.
   
   
2. Academic Record - value 50%
   
   Every candidate’s GPA is calculated on the most recent full year of university-level work, whether taken at McMaster or elsewhere.  If the applicant is currently registered in at least 24 units then those are used; if they are registered in fewer than 24 units, we will go to the previous session and select sufficient units to calculate the GPA.  If an applicant has received advanced credit based on community college work, we will use any university courses they have taken plus sufficient units from the community college advanced standing credit work.

Application Procedures

McMASTER STUDENTS - Honours B.S.W. Program

1. School of Social Work on-line Supplementary Application is now open for September 2023 admission.
   This application is mandatory and must be submitted to the School of Social Work no later than February 1, 2023.
   S.W.A.T.(Social Work Admissions Test)
2. When you complete the Supplementary Application you will select the date that you will write the S.W.A.T. from a list of 3 dates in February 2023. The S.W.A.T. will be written on-line through Avenue to Learn in February 2023. 
3. Transcripts
   The School of Social Work will obtain a copy of your official transcripts directly from the Office of the Registrar at McMaster. You need not initiate this process. 

NON-McMASTER STUDENTS - Honours B.S.W.

1. School of Social Work on-line Supplementary Application is now open for September 2023 admission.
   This application is mandatory and must be submitted to the School of Social Work no later than February 1, 2023.
   
   
2. Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), Form 105 is open for Fall 2023 applications. OUAC Application Link   (on-line form available after October 1, 2022 for September 2023 admission).
   Fee: $156 application fee + $90 assessment fee = $246.00  Please refer to OUAC Fees for up-to-date information.
   OUAC 105 form is mandatory for non-McMaster applicants and must be completed by January 12, 2023.
   
   
3. S.W.A.T. (Social Work Admissions Test)
   When you complete the Supplementary Application you will select the date that you will write the S.W.A.T. from a list of 3 dates in February 2023.  The S.W.A.T. will be written on-line through Avenue to Learn.
   
   
4. Transcripts
   Applicants must arrange for McMaster to receive official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended.  Currently registered students: submit transcripts as soon as final grades are available for each term (fall/winter).  Applicants whose studies are complete: submit final transcript(s) by March 1st.  Applicants should upload all transcripts to their SLATE Admissions Portal.  Please note: McMaster students do not have to submit McMaster transcripts.

Application Materials

All written materials submitted in relation to application for undergraduate study in social work become the property of the School of Social Work, McMaster University and cannot be returned to, or photocopied by, the applicant regardless of the final decision regarding admission.

Documents submitted by applicants who are ACCEPTED will be kept on file until October 15th of the year in which application is made, at which time all materials except the application form, scoring sheets and transcripts will be destroyed. Prior to this date, written materials may be reviewed for administrative accuracy by the applicant in the presence of a faculty member or the Administrator of the School of Social Work.

Documents submitted by applicants who are NOT ACCEPTED will be kept on file until July 15th of the year following application, at which time they will be destroyed. Prior to this date written materials may be reviewed for administrative accuracy by the applicant in the presence of a faculty member or the Administrator of the School of Social Work.

Subsequent applications by individuals not accepted into the School of Social Work or by individuals who withdraw from the application process will constitute NEW applications and will require re-submission of ALL documents. 

Application Withdrawal

Applicants who decide to discontinue their application at any point after submission are required to notify the School of Social Work in writing of their withdrawal.  Those who have applied through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) must also contact them to amend their program choice.

Notification of Acceptance

Normally, notification of final decisions will be emailed on or about June 15th. You must respond via email or call the School of Social Work to confirm your acceptance by the deadline provided in the offer letter date or your position will be forfeited. For those applicants who have also applied through OUAC, an official letter of acceptance from the Registrar's Office will be emailed to you and you must respond to OUAC as well.  Offers of acceptance cannot be deferred; students must complete a required Foundation course (SOCWORK 2A06, SOCWORK 2BB3, SOCWORK 2CC3, SOCWORK 3E03 or SOCWORK 3F03) in the year of admission.

Advanced Standing

Advanced standing applications are considered only after formal acceptance has been issued. You are required to submit supporting transcripts and course outlines for those courses on which you wish advanced standing to be based and identify those courses in the School of Social Work for which advanced standing is sought. If you are including work experience as a factor in your request for advanced standing, please submit a detailed job description and an evaluation (form to be supplied by the School) completed by your immediate supervisor. Note that requests for advanced standing cannot solely be based on work experience. You will be notified in writing about the decision of the Advanced Standing Committee. 

Appeal Procedure

The recommendation concerning admission of an applicant by the School of Social Work Admission Committee is final and is subject only to review for administrative correctness.

Indigenous Students (Includes First Nations and Metis) Alternate Admissions Process and Criteria 

The Circle of Indigenous Social Work Action has designed an admission process in pursuit of the School’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility of the undergraduate social work program to First Nations, Métis and Inuit applicants. Indigenous applicants may select the following Indigenous admission process or may opt for the process utilized by the general applicant population.

Admission via the Indigenous application process is based equally on the following criteria:

• Ability as measured by academic grades
• Personal Assessment, measured by the S.W.A.T.
• A letter from a community member that addresses the applicant's (1) readiness for the academic demands of the program, (2) alignment with values of social work and social justice, (3) involvement and identification with Indigenous community (historical, current, future). 

Given the colonial legacy of forced disconnection and dislocation from community, we do not require applicants to have an historical or current connection with Indigenous community. We seek the letter writer’s comments on the applicant’s Indigenous identity as they understand it, and their current and future intentions with respect to engagement with Indigenous communities.

You will find full details of the process in the Policy for Admission of Indigenous Students.

If you are interested, but not certain, you are welcome to say yes to the process on the Supplementary Application and we will be in touch closer to the S.W.A.T. test to discuss the process further.   Or, please reach out to Lorna O’Connell for more information.

Additional Information

Are you still wondering if you are eligible to apply to the Honours B.S.W. program?  Please complete our Pre-Application.

For more assistance in completing your application material or other administrative concerns, please contact:

Lorna O'Connell

Administrative Assistant

905-525-9140 ext 23795

Email: oconnell@mcmaster.ca

or

Tammy Maikawa, Administrator

905-525-9140 ext 23793

Undergraduate Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

All undergraduate students accepted for admission to McMaster University are automatically considered for a McMaster University entrance award. Additional entrance awards, in-course scholarships, bursaries and other forms of financial assistance is available to you at various stages of their undergraduate careers.

Each scholarship, bursary, Government Aid or Work Study Program has its own unique application process and requirements. More information on financial aid visit the Student Financial Aid & Scholarship (SFAS) Office.

Social Work Undergraduate Awards and Scholarships

The Citizen Action Group Prize*

Established in 1984 by the Citizen Action Group, Hamilton, to honour Professor Harry L. Penny, founding Director of the School of Social Work and Board Member of Citizen Action Group.  To be awarded to the student in a program in Social Work who achieves the highest grade in SOC WORK 4O03.
Value:  $500.00

The Dr. Jean Jones Memorial Scholarship*

Established in 2005 by family and friends in memory of Dr. Jean Jones.  To be awarded to the full-time student who attains the highest cumulative average in either the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Social Work or the Bachelor of Social Work post-degree program.
Value:   $800

The Ontario Association of Social Workers Prize

Established in 1986 and augmented in 1992 by the Hamilton Branch.  Two prizes to be awarded to the graduating students, one first degree and one second degree, who successfully completes Social Work 4DD6 and attains the highest grade in Social Work 4D06 in the same session.
Value:   $200 each

The Harry L. Penny Prize

Established in 1984 in recognition of Professor Harry L. Penny, founding Director of the School of Social Work, for his outstanding contribution to the School.  To be awarded to the student with the highest Cumulative Average in a Social Work program.
Value:   $100

The Social Work Prize

Established in 1982.   To be awarded to the student who attains the highest grade in Social Work 2A06.
Value:  $100

The Anne Stein Memorial Prize

Established in 1971 by friends and colleagues of Anne Stein.   To be awarded to the student who successfully completes Social   Work 3DD6 and attains the highest grade in Social Work 3D06 in the same session.
Value:  $125 (one full-time, one part-time)

*An award name ending with an * indicates that the award is open to both full-time and part-time second baccalaureate (post-degree) students.

Students must meet eligibility requirements for these awards as set out in the “General Conditions” and “Terms of Awards” described in the McMaster University Undergraduate Calendar.   For further information or clarification, please consult the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Gilmour Hall Room 120 or 905-525-9140, Ext. 24319.

Social Work Bursaries

The Sidney L. Blum Bursary

Established in 1989 by friends and associates in memory of Sidney L. Blum.  To be granted on the recommendation of the Director of the School of Social Work, to any undergraduate student in good standing in Levels III or IV of the BA/BSW program or Level II of the BSW program.

The Kelly Dawn Lapp Memorial Bursary

Established in 1997 by family and friends under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund initiative in memory of Kelly Dawn Lapp who received her BA/BSW degree from McMaster University in 1996.  To be granted to a student enrolled in the Social Work program who demonstrates financial need.  Preference will be given to a student who has volunteered or worked in programs related to violence against women and children, employment and affordable housing for women, advocacy and treatment of mental health patients, addiction treatment or prevention of cruelty to animals.

The Ewan Macintyre Bursaries

Established in 1999 by the Social Work Alumni Branch, the Citizen Action Group, the Social Work Students Association, faculty (past and present), staff, friends, alumni and various organizations association with McMaster’s School of Social Work as a tribute to Dr. Ewan Macintyre for his 29 years of service to the School, including 12 years of service as the School’s Director.  A variable number of bursaries to be granted to students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in a Bachelor of Social work program.

The Marion Pearce Bursaries

Established in 1990 by Dr. Sally Palmer in memory of her aunt Marion Pearce (class of ’20).  Miss Pearce worked with New Canadians at the Beverly Street Baptist Church in Toronto.  A variable number of bursaries to be granted to students enrolled in the Social Work program who have demonstrated financial need.

School Of Social Work Endowment Fund

Established through the generous donations of alumni, family, friends and corporate sponsors, the School of Social Work Endowment Fund will provide support in such areas as faculty research projects, student support, new initiatives and special projects.  To apply for assistance from this fund, please contact Tammy Maikawa, Administrative Co-ordinator of the School of Social Work at millet@mcmaster.ca.

Other Awards and Bursaries

For information regarding other academic awards and bursaries not specifically for social work students, please consult the Awards Section of the Undergraduate Calendar or the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Gilmour Hall Room 120 or 905-525-9140, Ext. 24319.

Tammy Maikawa, Administrator and Academic Advisor
Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH), Room 317

millet@mcmaster.ca

(905) 525-9140 ext.23793

Academic Advising

The Academic Advising office is run through the Office of the Associate Dean. The primary goal of the Advising Office is to provide all Social Sciences undergraduate students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers.

Advisors can help you make the right academic decisions by explaining policies and regulations as well as presenting different options and supports available in your studies.

An academic advisor can assist you with:

• Course requirements, dropping and adding courses
• Program selection, application and changes
• Studying abroad
• Transfer credits
• Petitions for missed term work, deferred examinations and special consideration
• Appeals procedures
• Referral to other campus services

Learn more about Academic Advising in the Social Sciences.

60 units total

12 units

• SOCWORK 2A06 A/B - Theory, Process and Communication Skills for Social Work
• SOCWORK 2BB3 - Social Work and Social Welfare: Anti-Oppressive Perspectives
• SOCWORK 2CC3 - Introduction to Community Practice

• (SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, SOCWORK 2BB3 and SOCWORK 2CC3 must be completed prior to enrolling in SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S)

12 units

• SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S - General Social Work I
• SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum I

• (SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S must be completed prior to enrolling in SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S and SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S)

12 units

• SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S - General Social Work II
• SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum II

15 units

• SOCWORK 3E03 - Individual Practice Across the Lifespan
• SOCWORK 3F03 - Social Work with Groups
• SOCWORK 4J03 - Social Change: Social Movements and Advocacy
• SOCWORK 4X03 - Social Work with Families
• SOCWORK 4ZZ3 - Social Welfare: Practice Implications and Advocacy

3-9 units

Three to nine units selected from the Social and Political Context of Social Work courses. (See Program Notes 4 and 5 below) 

3 units

• INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies

  Note: If this requirement was completed prior to admission, these units must be chosen from the Social and Political Context of Social Work courses. (See Program Note 4 below)

3 units

Social Sciences Research Methods. If requirement was completed prior to admission, these units must be chosen from Social and Political Context of Social Work courses. (See Program Note 5 below)

Program Notes

1.  Course Groupings: There are two groups of courses in the Social Work program:
   • Foundation of Social Work. This category includes core courses which are required by social work students, most of which are available to social work students only. Exceptions to this include SOCWORK 2BB3 and SOCWORK 2CC3 which have a limited number of seats for undergraduates in a Labour Studies program and SOCWORK 4J03 which has a limited number of seats for undergraduates in a Labour Studies program and undergraduates in Level III or above of a non-Social Work/Labour Studies program who have completed SOCWORK 1AA3 or SOCWORK 1BB3.
   • Social and Political Context of Social Work. Social Work students must take 3-9 units from the Social and Political Context of Social Work group of courses, depending on if INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies, and Social Research methods were completed in the first degree. All Social and Political Context of Social Work courses except SOCWORK 4SA3 and SOCWORK 4SB3 are available for credit by undergraduates in the Labour Studies program and as elective credit for undergraduates in Level III or above of a non-Social Work/Labour Studies program who have completed SOCWORK 1AA3 or SOCWORK 1BB3. Registration in SOCWORK 4SA3 and SOCWORK 4SB3 is restricted to Social Work students who have received permission of the School of Social Work. All Social and Political Context of Social Work courses have limited enrolment.

Foundation of Social Work

• • SOCWORK 2A06 A/B - Theory, Process and Communication Skills for Social Work
  • SOCWORK 2BB3 - Social Work and Social Welfare: Anti-Oppressive Perspectives
  • SOCWORK 2CC3 - Introduction to Community Practice
  • SOCWORK 3D06 A/B S - General Social Work I
  • SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum I
  • SOCWORK 3E03 - Individual Practice Across the Lifespan
  • SOCWORK 3F03 - Social Work with Groups
  • SOCWORK 4D06 A/B S - General Social Work II
  • SOCWORK 4DD6 A/B S - Field Practicum II
  • SOCWORK 4J03 - Social Change: Social Movements and Advocacy
  • SOCWORK 4O03 - Social Work with Communities
  • SOCWORK 4X03 - Social Work with Families
  • SOCWORK 4ZZ3 - Social Welfare: Practice Implications and Advocacy

   Social and Political Context of Social Work

  • SOCWORK 3B03 - Transnational Lives in a Globalizing World
  • SOCWORK 3C03 - Social Aspects of Health and Illness
  • SOCWORK 3L03 - Violence: Social Justice Perspectives and Responses
  • SOCWORK 3O03 - Social Work and Sexualities
  • SOCWORK 3Q03 - Indigenizing Social Work Practice Approaches
  • SOCWORK 3S03 - Social Work, Disability and Dis/Ableism
  • SOCWORK 3T03 - Poverty and Homelessness
  • SOCWORK 4C03 - Critical Perspectives on Race, Racialization, Racism and Colonialism in Canadian Society
  • SOCWORK 4G03 - Selected Topics
  • SOCWORK 4I03 - Social Work and Indigenous Peoples
  • SOCWORK 4R03 - Feminist Approaches to Social Work and Social Justice
  • SOCWORK 4SA3 - Critical Child Welfare: From Theory to Practice Part I
  • SOCWORK 4SB3 - Critical Child Welfare: From Theory to Practice Part II
  • SOCWORK 4U03 - Immigration, Settlement and Social Work
  • SOCWORK 4W03 - Child Welfare
  • SOCWORK 4Y03 - Critical Issues in Mental Health & Addiction: Mad & Critical Disability Studies Perspectives for SW

2. Progression Within Program: Students must achieve a minimum grade of C+ in each of SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, 2BB3, 2CC3, 3D06 A/B S, 3E03, 3F03, 4D06 A/B S, 4J03, 4X03 and 4ZZ3, a Pass in their field placements SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S, and a CA of at least 6.0. If a student fails to meet the minimum grade requirements in these required social work courses or a Pass designation in either field placement (SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S), the student may not proceed in the program; however, the student may make a request in writing to the Director of the School of Social Work to be allowed to repeat the course in which the minimum grade or Pass requirement has not been met. Such requests will be reviewed by the Director of the School of Social Work in consultation with the Chair of the Undergraduate Studies Committee and/or the Chair of the Field Education Program and the course instructor. These courses and/or placements may only be repeated when approval is given by the Director of the School of Social Work following consultation as described above. Students who subsequently fail to meet the minimum grade or Pass requirement after repeating the course or placement may not continue in the program.
3. Students who were admitted to this program in 2017-2018 or later must complete INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies. If this requirement was not completed prior to admission to the B.S.W. program, students must replace three units from the Social and Political Context of Social Work courses with INDIGST 1A03.
4. Students must complete three units of Social Sciences Research Methods (e.g. SOCIOL 2Z03 or SOCPSY 2K03 or HLTHAGE 2A03). If this requirement was not completed prior to admission to the B.S.W. program, students must replace three units from the Social and Political Context of Social Work courses with a research methods course. A statistics course may not substitute for a research methods course.
5. Graduation: To qualify for the B.S.W. students must complete a total of 60 units. The B.S.W will be granted only if the student has achieved a grade of at least C+ in each of SOCWORK 2A06 A/B, 2BB3, 2CC3, 3D06 A/B S, 3E03, 3F03, 4D06 A/B S, 4J03, 4X03 and 4ZZ3, a Pass in SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S, and a CA of at least 6.0.
6. Students are expected to assume the cost of travelling to and from field practice agencies and for any related expenses.
7. Students in the social work program must apply for third and fourth year field placements (SOCWORK 3DD6 A/B S and 4DD6 A/B S), and are able to rank their placements in terms of preference. While efforts are made to match placements with student preferences, the final assignment of placement settings is constrained by many factors, including the availability of settings and field and faculty resources. Students may therefore be required to complete a field placement in an agency that is not among their preferred options.

Individuals interested in the B.S.W (Post Degree) program must apply directly to the School of Social Work.

Enrolment in this program is limited. Eligibility is dependent upon completion of an undergraduate degree from a recognized university, including a total of six units of introductory Social Work or introductory Sociology and six additional units of introductory level courses from the Course List (or equivalent) Students who are interested in the B.S.W. (post degree) are strongly encouraged to take both SOCWORK 1AA3 and SOCWORK 1BB3 during their first degree. Students are also encouraged to take INDIGST 1A03 - Introduction to Indigenous Studies , in their first degree, as completion of this course will be required for completion of the B.S.W. To be considered for admission, students must normally have a minimum average of 6.0 on the most recent 30 units (five full credits) of university-level courses completed and evidence of personal suitability which may be evaluated by one or a combination of written statements, tests or interviews.

Admission Notes

1. Students who have successfully completed the two-year College of Applied Arts and Technology Social Services Diploma with a minimum Grade Point Average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (75%) are considered to have completed the equivalent of SOCWORK 1AA3 and SOCWORK 1BB3. Students who have successfully completed this diploma with a cumulative average of 3.4 - 4.0 (85%-100%) are not required to complete six additional units of introductory level courses from the Course List to be eligible for admission.
2. An applicant is required to complete the prerequisite undergraduate degree work by April of the year in which application is made.
3. Indigenous students (includes First Nations, Métis & Inuit) may select an alternate application process. Please see section below for full details. 
4. Enrolment in the B.S.W. program is limited. Students who intend to apply to the B.S.W. program must follow the application instructions as found on the School of Social Work website: http://www.socialwork.mcmaster.ca. Applicants must also apply to the University.
5. All applications for admission to the School of Social Work are considered annually and must be made directly to the School well before February 1 for the Fall/Winter term.

Application Components

Admission scores are based 50% on results from the Social Work Admissions Test (S.W.A.T.) and 50% on a student’s GPA. 

1. Social Work Admission Test (S.W.A.T.) - value 50%
   
   In accordance with the evaluation criteria of the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, our admission procedures include assessment of personal suitability as well as academic capability. The S.W.A.T. is designed in an effort to draw on applicants' personal and professional experiences and preparatory study is not expected or necessary for the essay-style responses.  For information on the S.W.A.T. please see our S.W.A.T. information page.
   
   
2. Academic Record - value 50%
   
   Every candidate’s GPA is calculated on the most recent 30 units (5 full credits) of university-level work, whether taken at McMaster or elsewhere.  If the applicant is currently registered in 30 units, then those are used; if they are registered in fewer units, then we will go to the previous session and select sufficient units to total 30 (taking the best grades from that session).  If an applicant has received advanced credit based on community college work, we will use any university courses they have taken plus sufficient units from the community college advanced standing credit work to equal 30 units.

Application Procedures

Two-Tier Applications

Individuals interested in the B.S.W. program must complete two application forms as follows:

General Application (January 12) Application is open for September 2023 Admission.

If you have graduated from a University other than McMaster you must complete the Ontario University Application Centre 105 form on-line application form (with payment) at OUAC Link
NOTE: This on-line application is now open.  OUAC Fees Link  The OUAC 105 form is mandatory for non-McMaster applicants and must be submitted by January 12, 2023.

If you are a McMaster graduate, complete (with payment) the McMaster Returning Student Application at http://future.mcmaster.ca/admission/process/returning/
NOTE: This on-line application is now open and must be submitted by January 12.

Supplementary Application (February 1)

School of Social Work on-line Supplementary Application is now open for September 2023 admission.
This application is mandatory and must be submitted to the School of Social Work no later than February 1, 2023.

Social Work Admissions Test (S.W.A.T.)

When you complete the Supplementary Application you will select the date that you will write the S.W.A.T. from a list of 3 dates in February 2023.  The S.W.A.T. will be written on-line through Avenue to Learn.  

Transcripts

McMaster Students

The School of Social Work will obtain a copy of your official transcripts directly from the Office of the Registrar at McMaster. You need not initiate this process.

Non-McMaster Students

Applicants must arrange for McMaster to receive official transcripts from any post secondary institutions attended. Applicants whose studies are complete, please submit your transcript(s) by March 1st. If you are not currently attending university, you must request a transcript which indicates your degree has been conferred.  Currently registered students, please submit transcript(s) as soon as final grades are available for each term (fall/winter).  All transcripts should be uploaded to the applicants SLATE Admission Portal. Fee information is available on the Ontario Universities Application Centre website. 

Application Materials

All written materials submitted in relation to application for undergraduate study in social work become the property of the School of Social Work, McMaster University and cannot be returned to, or photocopied by, the applicant regardless of the final decision regarding admission.

Documents submitted by applicants who are ACCEPTED will be kept on file until October 15th of the year in which application is made, at which time all materials except the application form, scoring sheets and transcripts will be destroyed. Prior to this date, written materials may be reviewed for administrative accuracy by the applicant in the presence of a Faculty Member or the Administrative Coordinator of the School of Social Work.

Documents submitted by applicants who are NOT ACCEPTED will be kept on file until July 15th of the year following application, at which time they will be destroyed. Prior to this date written materials may be reviewed for administrative accuracy by the applicant in the presence of a faculty member or the Administrative Coordinator of the School of Social Work.

Subsequent applications by individuals not accepted into the School of Social Work or by individuals who withdraw from the application process will constitute NEW applications and will require re-submission of ALL documents.

Application Withdrawal

Applicants who decide to discontinue their application at any point after submission are required to notify the School of Social Work in writing of their withdrawal.  Those who have applied through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) must also contact them to amend their program choice.

Notification of Acceptance

Normally, notification of final decisions will be mailed on or about June 15th. You must call the School of Social Work to confirm your acceptance within by the deadline provided in the offer letter date or your position will be forfeited. For those applicants who have also applied through the OUAC, an official letter of acceptance from the Registrar's Office will be emailed to you and you must respond to OUAC as well.  Offers of acceptance cannot be deferred; students must complete a required social work Foundation course (SOCWORK 2A06, SOCWORK 2BB3, SOCWORK 2CC3, SOC WORK 3E03, SOCWORK 3F03) in the year of admission. 

Advanced Standing

Advanced standing applications are considered only after formal acceptance has been issued. You are required to submit supporting transcripts and course outlines for those courses on which you wish advanced standing to be based and identify those courses in the School of Social Work for which advanced standing is sought. If you are including work experience as a factor in your request for advanced standing, please submit a detailed job description and an evaluation (form to be supplied by the School) completed by your immediate supervisor. Note that requests for advanced standing cannot solely be based on work experience. You will be notified in writing about the decision of the Advanced Standing Committee.

Appeal Procedure

The recommendation concerning admission of an applicant by the School of Social Work Admission Committee is final and is subject only to review for administrative correctness.

Indigenous Students (Includes First Nations and Metis) Alternate Admissions Process and Criteria

The Circle of Indigenous Social Work Action has designed an admission process in pursuit of the School’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility of the undergraduate social work program to First Nations, Métis and Inuit applicants. Indigenous applicants may select the following Indigenous admission process or may opt for the process utilized by the general applicant population.

Admission via the Indigenous application process is based equally on the following criteria:

• Ability as measured by academic grades
• Personal Assessment, measured by the S.W.A.T.
• A letter from a community member that addresses the applicant's (1) readiness for the academic demands of the program, (2) alignment with values of social work and social justice, (3) involvement and identification with Indigenous community (historical, current, future). 

Given the colonial legacy of forced disconnection and dislocation from community, we do not require applicants to have an historical or current connection with Indigenous community. We seek the letter writer’s comments on the applicant’s Indigenous identity as they understand it, and their current and future intentions with respect to engagement with Indigenous communities.

You will find full details of the process in the Policy for Admission of Indigenous Students.

If you are interested, but not certain, you are welcome to say yes to the process pn the Supplementary Application and we will be in touch closer to the S.W.A.T. test to discuss the process further.   Or, please reach out to Lorna O’Connell for more information.

Additional Information

Are you still wondering if you are eligible to apply to the B.S.W. post-degree program?  Please complete our Pre-Application.

For more assistance in completing your application material or other administrative concerns, please contact:

Lorna O'Connell

Administrative Assistant

(905) 525-9140 ext 23795

Email: oconnell@mcmaster.ca

or

Tammy Maikawa, Administrator

(905) 525-9140 ext 23793

Undergraduate Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

All undergraduate students accepted for admission to McMaster University are automatically considered for a McMaster University entrance award. Additional entrance awards, in-course scholarships, bursaries and other forms of financial assistance is available to you at various stages of their undergraduate careers.

Each scholarship, bursary, Government Aid or Work Study Program a has its own unique application process and requirements. More information on financial aid visit the Student Financial Aid & Scholarship (SFAS) Office.

Social Work Undergraduate Awards and Scholarships

The Citizen Action Group Prize*

Established in 1984 by the Citizen Action Group, Hamilton, to honour Professor Harry L. Penny, founding Director of the School of Social Work and Board Member of Citizen Action Group.  To be awarded to the student in a program in Social Work who achieves the highest grade in SOC WORK 4O03.
Value:  $500.00

The Dr. Jean Jones Memorial Scholarship*

Established in 2005 by family and friends in memory of Dr. Jean Jones.  To be awarded to the full-time student who attains the highest cumulative average in either the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Social Work or the Bachelor of Social Work post degree program.
Value:   $800

The Ontario Association of Social Workers Prize

Established in 1986 and augmented in 1992 by the Hamilton Branch.  Two prizes to be awarded to the graduating students, one first degree and one second degree, who successfully completes Social Work 4DD6 and attains the highest grade in Social Work 4D06 in the same session.
Value:   $200 each

The Harry L. Penny Prize

Established in 1984 in recognition of Professor Harry L. Penny, founding Director of the School of Social Work, for his outstanding contribution to the School.  To be awarded to the student with the highest Cumulative Average in a Social Work program.
Value:   $100

The Social Work Prize

Established in 1982.   To be awarded to the student who attains the highest grade in Social Work 2A06.
Value:  $100

The Anne Stein Memorial Prize

Established in 1971 by friends and colleagues of Anne Stein.   To be awarded to the student who successfully completes Social   Work 3DD6 and attains the highest grade in Social Work 3D06 in the same session.
Value:  $125 (one full-time, one part-time)

*An award name ending with an * indicates that the award is open to both full-time and part-time second baccalaureate (post degree) students.

Students must meet eligibility requirements for these awards as set out in the “General Conditions” and “Terms of Awards” described in the McMaster University Undergraduate Calendar.   For further information or clarification, please consult the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Gilmour Hall Room 120 or 905-525-9140, Ext. 24319.

Social Work Bursaries

The Sidney L. Blum Bursary

Established in 1989 by friends and associates in memory of Sidney L. Blum.  To be granted on the recommendation of the Director of the School of Social Work, to any undergraduate student in good standing in Levels III or IV of the BA/BSW program or Level II of the BSW program.

The Kelly Dawn Lapp Memorial Bursary

Established in 1997 by family and friends under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund initiative in memory of Kelly Dawn Lapp who received her BA/BSW degree from McMaster University in 1996.  To be granted to a student enrolled in the Social Work program who demonstrates financial need.  Preference will be given to a student who has volunteered or worked in programs related to violence against women and children, employment and affordable housing for women, advocacy and treatment of mental health patients, addiction treatment or prevention of cruelty to animals.

The Ewan Macintyre Bursaries

Established in 1999 by the Social Work Alumni Branch, the Citizen Action Group, the Social Work Students Association, faculty (past and present), staff, friends, alumni and various organizations association with McMaster’s School of Social Work as a tribute to Dr. Ewan Macintyre for his 29 years of service to the School, including 12 years of service as the School’s Director.  A variable number of bursaries to be granted to students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in a Bachelor of Social work program.

The Marion Pearce Bursaries

Established in 1990 by Dr. Sally Palmer in memory of her aunt Marion Pearce (class of ’20).  Miss Pearce worked with New Canadians at the Beverly Street Baptist Church in Toronto.  A variable number of bursaries to be granted to students enrolled in the Social Work program who have demonstrated financial need. 

School Of Social Work Endowment Fund

Established through the generous donations of alumni, family, friends and corporate sponsors, the School of Social Work Endowment Fund will provide support in such areas as faculty research projects, student support, new initiatives and special projects.  To apply for assistance from this fund, please contact Tammy Maikawa, Administrative Co-ordinator of the School of Social Work at millet@mcmaster.ca. 

Other Awards and Bursaries

For information regarding other academic awards and bursaries not specifically for social work students, please consult the Awards Section of the Undergraduate Calendar or the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Gilmour Hall Room 120 or 905-525-9140, Ext. 24319.

Tammy Maikawa 
Administrator and Academic Advisor
Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH), Room 317
millet@mcmaster.ca
(905) 525-9140 ext.23793

Academic Advising

The Academic Advising office is run through the Office of the Associate Dean. The primary goal of the Advising Office is to provide all Social Sciences undergraduate students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers.

Advisors can help you make the right academic decisions by explaining policies and regulations as well as presenting different options and supports available in your studies.

An academic advisor can assist you with:

• Course requirements, dropping and adding courses
• Program selection, application and changes
• Studying abroad
• Transfer credits
• Petitions for missed term work, deferred examinations and special consideration
• Appeals procedures
• Referral to other campus services

Learn more about Academic Advising in the Social Sciences.

Still have questions?

For administrative questions contact Tammy Maikawa, Academic Department Manager in the School of Social Work.

For questions about child welfare social work or certificate curriculum content contact Gary Dumbrill

Still have questions?

Students will have to plan carefully to complete the Pathway. If you wish to follow an Indigenous Pathway through the program, please discuss this early in your BSW with the School’s Administrator and student advisor, Tammy Maikawa: millet@mcmaster.ca.

The MSW: Critical Analysis of Social Work curriculum has three main components:

1. Required courses that provide the content and methodological skills necessary for policy and practice analysis;
2. Elective courses enable students to deepen their knowledge of practice and policy in the inner workings of social agencies and in social change efforts at the community level.
3. Thesis designed to integrate analytical and evaluative skills and to contribute to the critical analysis of policy and practice. 
   
   Note: All courses are half or one-term courses (Fall or Winter), except SOCWORK 739 which runs over all three terms (Fall, Winter and Spring/Summer).

Three required Courses:

• 700 / Social Work Practice: Critical Frameworks
• 701 / Social Policy: Critical Frameworks
• 739 / Critical Approaches to Social Work Knowledge and Research Methods

Two Elective Courses:

1. i) At least one of:

• 721 / Changing Communities: Tensions and Possibilities for Citizenship and Social Justice
• 740 / Changing Social Service Organizations: Implications for Workers and Service Users
• SOCSCI 708 / Critical Approaches to Community Based Research
  OR a graduate level course linked with the student’s program of study offered by Social Work OR by another department or academic unit (provided that permission has been obtained from those departments or academic units, and School of Social Work’s Graduate Chair).

1. ii) One additional elective

Additional Information:

MSW students who transfer in from other accredited Schools of Social Work would be assessed for transfer credit on an individual basis. Students entering either stream of the MSW program who have successfully completed the Community-Engaged Research and Evaluation or the Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities graduate diploma may receive 3 units of advanced credit if approved by the School of Social Work’s Graduate Chair.

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the MSW: Critical Analysis of Social Work stream, applicants are required to hold a B.S.W. degree from an accredited* social work program. In addition, admission requirements are:

• half course in introductory social research methods;
• B+ standing in senior-level social work courses.

Application Materials

In order for your application to be considered complete, it must include the following items:

• Online Application Form and Fee.
• Statement of Interest (applicant uploads pdf directly).
• Resumé (applicant uploads pdf directly. Please include work/practicum experience using template below).
• Referee Reports (referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - due by January 3rd at 11:59pm).
  
• Transcripts (applicant uploads unofficial transcript directly). Original transcripts must be sent directly from issuing institution*.
• English proficiency requirements, if applicable (applicant uploads unofficial copy directly). Original documents sent directly from issuing institution*.

*Note: Transcripts and English Proficiency documents must be sent directly from issuing institution(s) to:

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

Timelines for Application

The deadline for applications is DECEMBER 15^th Review of applications will begin in December and admissions will be made to outstanding candidates as early in the new year as possible. Applicants will upload an unofficial copy of their transcript(s) and English Language Proficiency (if applicable) by the  deadline date so that we may expedite assessment of their qualifications.

Offers of admission and financial assistance are normally sent out mid-January to end of April.

Application Form and Fee

The portal is now closed for September 2023 admissions. Application forms must be completed online. Please read this webpage thoroughly before proceeding to the How to Apply instructions on the School of Graduate Studies website.  

On the application portal, first review the "Prepare your Application for September 2023" tab before proceeding to the "Application Instructions for September 2023" tab with detailed guide which will lead you though the online application process. Then proceed to the Start Your Application page. Please note the search criteria on application portal for "Filter by Faculty" is “Social Sciences”; then scroll down list of "Programs Open for Application" and click "Apply Now" button beside description "Social Work - Critical Analysis of Social Work MSW", then click on "Create an Account" link if you are a first time user OR separate link for returning user. For "Course Type" you may choose "full-time" or "part-time" studies. In the “Upload Documents” section, in addition to your CV & Statement of Interest, please also upload Unofficial Transcript(s) and TOEFL (if applicable).

A non-refundable $110 (CAN) application fee is applied to all applications. The fee can be paid on-line by valid debit or credit card.

Transcripts

Applicants must provide one official transcript of university academic work completed to date, sent directly from the issuing institution to the School of Social Work (address above). Note: Unofficial transcripts must be uploaded by deadline date; original transcript(s) will be accepted after the deadline date.

Resumé

Any relevant work/practicum experience should be included using this work experience template, which can be uploaded separately or added to your resumé.

Statement of Interest

A written statement, maximum of 4 typed double-spaced pages, expanding on your resumé and covering the following areas:

1)    What is the most significant issue facing the community with which you are connected or about which you care?  Describe how your thesis research could support a better understanding or assist in addressing this issue.

2)    Discuss how your experience, including research experience, employment or volunteer work, training or teaching experience, life experience and/or your practicum – inform your desire to participate in the MSW in Critical Analysis.

Note: we are particularly interested in examples of relevant experience which indicate a capacity for innovative and independent thinking, and in your reflection on previous opportunities to participate in research projects, program planning, practice development, organized advocacy or administration.  Your description should reflect the length, range, and diversity of your experience.

3)    Please discuss your expectations of this program - indicate why you are interested in the MSW in Critical Analysis program (including why you are interested in writing a thesis) and how you expect it to help you in pursuing your career and personal development goals.

4)    Please provide a brief description of any publications and unpublished papers, reports or proposals.           

The supplementary statement is assessed based on comprehensiveness, clarity of presentation, and ability to abstract from experience.  The declaration of your area of interest and your ability to connect it to the School's areas of expertise is important.

Letters of Reference

A complete application includes two confidential letters of recommendation. Two academic references are preferred, but one work reference is acceptable if the person is able to comment on your academic skills. Referees will be asked to describe work you have been involved in that they have direct knowledge of, and comment on a) your potential - in terms of knowledge and skills - for critical analysis of social work practice and/or social welfare policies, and b) your ability to incorporate concerns for social justice into critical analyses. McMaster University uses the Electronic Referencing System. You must enter the email addresses of your referees as part of the on-line application form. Your referees will receive an email message asking them to complete an eReference immediately after the 'Send to Recommender' button is clicked. You may wish to click on this button just before you submit the application. If you need to change your reference or referee email address after submitting your application, you may do so through the Applicant Portal. Referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - deadline is January 3rd at 11:59pm.

English Proficiency Requirements

If applicable, an official copy of your TOEFL score, or other evidence of competency in English is required. A minimum TOEFL score of 580 (or 237 on the computer-based TOEFL test) is needed.

Additional Information

*Please complete our Pre-Application form so that we can verify your academic qualifications before you send a full application.

The School of Graduate Studies policy with regard to students with disabilities can be found in section 6.6 of the School of Graduate Studies Calendar. The full policy and further information may be obtained from the School of Graduate Studies or the Student Success Centre 905-525-9140 ext. 28652 or e-mail studentsuccess@mcmaster.ca.  For further information, consult McMaster University’s Policy for Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities.

Apply Now 

Ontario Student Assistance Program:

Application forms and brochures can be obtained from the Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office at McMaster University. Application to OSAP can be made online at http://www.osap.gov.on.ca

General Bursary & Internal Awards

Students can apply for the General Bursary by going to AwardSpring, which is accessed through the tile on their Mosaic Home page. Award Spring is a new and simpler platform for students to apply for aid and internal awards. With AwardSpring, you can complete one common application that matches you with aid and internal award opportunities you’re eligible for. It also tracks your completion of any additional requirements on a user-friendly dashboard.

Internal School of Social Work Awards:

No application required. MSW students are automatically considered for these awards.

The Judge Hugh C. Arrell Memorial Prize in Social Work

This prize was established through the generosity of friends and associates of the late Judge Hugh C. Arrell, formerly Judge of the Juvenile and Family Courts, Hamilton.  An award will be made annually at Fall Convocation on the recommendation of the Director of the School of Social Work, to the M.S.W. graduand who submitted the best Thesis to meet the requirements of the program.

The Sidney L. Blum Bursary

Established in 1989 by friends and associates in memory of Sidney L. Blum.  To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Student Financial Aid and Scholarships Office, to any graduate student in good standing in the Master’s program of the School of Social Work.

The Social Work Alumni Anniversary Award

Established by the Alumni of the School of Social Work in 1993, in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the School. The award is designed to promote social work study at the graduate level in the fields of practice and policy.  The successful recipient will be a graduate of McMaster’s B.S.W. program, have received the highest mark in the Personal Statement section of the application process, and have been admitted as a full-time student in the M.S.W. program.

External Scholarships:

Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS) and Ontario Graduate Fellowships (OGF)

• School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website (Under "Provincial Awards")

Students who apply for a CGS-M (details below) through McMaster University will automatically be considered for an OGS at McMaster. For incoming Master’s students who apply for a CGS-M, please remember to choose McMaster as one of the three universities to where you would like to submit your CGS-M application.

Canada Graduate Scholarship Master's (CGS-M) 

• School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website (Under 'Government Awards" and click "Learn More")

Applicants apply directly via Research Portal.

• Deadline: December 1 (8:00pm)

Further information on scholarships and fellowships tenable at McMaster University, please consult the School of Graduate Studies website at:
https://gs.mcmaster.ca/awards-funding/awards-funding

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

The MSW: Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities curriculum has two main components:

1. Required courses that provide foundational knowledge of the critical analysis of social work practice, and the critical analysis of policy;  and required courses that provide analyses and conceptual frameworks about changing conditions in social services and communities, and about leadership 
2. A leadership-focused practicum -- a practical experience of leadership with personalized feedback and mentorship that prepares students for leadership roles in social and community services  

Required Courses

• SOCWORK 700 / Social Work Practice: Critical Frameworks
• SOCWORK 701 / Social Policy: Critical Frameworks
• SOCWORK 741 / Changing Social Services, Changing Communities: Focus on Leadership
• SOCWORK 742 /  Organizational and Social Change: Theories, Practices and Possibilities 
• SOCWORK 743 / Critical Approaches to Evidence and Evaluation in Social Services and Communities
• SOCWORK 750 / Leadership Seminar
• SOCWORK 751 / Leadership Practicum

And one of:

• SOCWORK 740 / Changing Social Service Organizations: Implications for Workers & Service Users
• SOCWORK 721 / Changing Communities: Tensions and Possibilities for Citizenship and Social Justice
• SOCSCI 708 / Critical Approaches to Community Based Research
  OR
  a graduate level course linked with the student’s program of study offered by Social Work OR by another department or academic unit (provided that permission has been obtained from those departments or academic units, and School of Social Work’s Graduate Chair).

Practicum

Each student will have a leadership practicum (SOCWORK 751) in a social service agency or community organization. Students will take on a leadership project - for example, lead the development of a new policy, move a service initiative forward, or explore and provide recommendations about how a community need might be better met. An MSW-prepared social worker will provide field instruction. Students’ experiences, observations and actions in the field setting will become topics for reflection in the accompanying seminar (SOCWORK 750) with theory and concepts from coursework brought to bear on specific aspects of their leadership practice. The practicum will be 450 hours long (this number of hours is required for accreditation by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education).

It is important to get a theoretical grounding in leadership before the practicum begins. Students may negotiate their placement and begin orientating to the organization but the placement activities (observation and project work) should not formally begin until the student has successfully completed SW741.

Additional Information:

Part-time students must follow the "Part-Time Pacing in the MSW Critical Leadership program" document as courses must be taken in a specific sequence over three years. In exceptional circumstances, full-time or part-time students returning from leave of absence may apply for a one-term "no course available" leave of absence by completing a Petition for Special Consideration form. Please contact Social Work Graduate Administrative Assistant for more details.

MSW students who transfer in from other accredited Schools of Social Work would be assessed for transfer credit on an individual basis. Students entering either stream of the MSW program who have successfully completed the Community-Engaged Research and Evaluation or the Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities graduate diploma may receive 3 units of advanced credit if approved by the School of Social Work’s Graduate Chair.

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the MSW: Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities stream, applicants are required to hold a B.S.W. degree from an accredited social work program. In addition, admission requirements are:

• half course in introductory social research methods;
• B+ standing in senior-level social work courses;
• the equivalent of an accumulated 3 years of experience working in social services or communities/community services

Applications should demonstrate the capacity to:

• Rationalize experience and its link to leadership
• Contextualize the experience to lead in a critical and complex way

Applicants should have the equivalent of an accumulated 3 years of experience to be accepted into the program. This experience needs to be demonstrated - to inform their leadership activities and to support analysis of organizational and systemic processes that inform leadership and may in some contexts limit/shape the nature of leadership practice.

The point of this experience level is not to meet a technical requirement, but rather to ensure that students have particular kinds of experience and have the capacity to process their knowledge in a critical way in the classroom and placement setting.

Application Materials

In order for your application to be considered complete, it must include the following items:

• Online Application Form and Fee
• Statement of Interest (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• Resumé (applicant uploads pdf directly. Please include work experience using the template below)
• Referee Reports (referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - due by January 3rd at 11:59pm)
• Transcripts (applicant uploads unofficial transcript directly). Original transcripts must be sent directly from issuing institution*.
• English proficiency requirements, if applicable (applicant uploads unofficial copy directly). Original documents must be sent directly from issuing institution*.

*Note: Transcripts and English Proficiency documents must be sent directly from issuing institution(s) to:

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

Timelines for Application

Review of applications will be considered until all positions have been filled. Applicants will upload an unofficial copy of their transcript(s) and English Language Proficiency (if applicable) by the deadline date so that we may expedite the assessment of their qualifications. The deadline for MSW (Critical Leadership) applications is December 15th (11:59pm). The admissions system will remain open until all positions have been filled.

Offers of admission and financial support are normally sent out from early March to late July.

Application Form and Fee

The portal is now closed for September 2023 admissions. Application forms must be completed online. Please read this webpage thoroughly before proceeding to the How to Apply instructions on the School of Graduate Studies website.  

On the application portal, first review the "Prepare your Application for September 2023" tab before proceeding to the "Application Instructions for September 2023" tab with detailed guide which will lead you though the online application process. Then proceed to the Start Your Application page. Please note the search criteria on application portal for "Filter by Faculty" is “Social Sciences”; then scroll down list of "Programs Open for Application" and click "Apply Now" button beside description "Social Work - Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities MSW", then click on "Create an Account" link if you are a first time user OR separate link for returning user. For "Course Type" you may choose "full-time" or "part-time" studies. In the “Upload Documents” section, in addition to your CV & Statement of Interest, please also upload Unofficial Transcript(s) and TOEFL (if applicable).

A non-refundable $110 (CAN) application fee is applied to all applications. The fee can be paid on-line by valid debit or credit card.

Transcripts

Applicants must provide one official transcript(s) of university academic work completed to date, sent directly from the issuing institution to the School of Social Work (address above). Note: Official transcript will be accepted after the deadline date.

Resumé

Relevant work/practicum experience should be included using this work experience template, which can be uploaded separately or added to your resumé. 

Applicants should have the equivalent of an accumulated 3 years of experience to be accepted into the program. Applicants are not required to have paid experience specifically, but they do need to have substantive experience. For example, two weeks running a community program as a volunteer or paid staff 3 years in a row would not be considered “substantive”. Placement hours do not count towards the three years – all students apply with placement experience as this is a standardized requirement for completion of a BSW. Student’s placement experience may enhance their statement related to the hoped-for placement or leadership project.

Employment:
Paid work activities which include part-time, full-time, contract and on-call work.

Experience:
Activities that contribute to your knowledge/capacity for MSW study

Unpaid work activities: This work can include volunteer work undertaken in form organizations/institutions, informal organizations or within the context of your own personal life, such as caregiving activities or other personal, familial labour and other kinds of social navigation such as such as self-advocacy, accessing services.

Placement and Practicum (service learning, experiential education):
Work activities are undertaken as experiential education activities, such as field education, service learning activities. Student receives educational credit for this kind of work.

Statement of Interest

All applicants must provide a Statement of Interest, maximum of 5 typed double-spaced pages, expanding on your resumé, covering the following areas:

1. Describe a situation in which you have offered (or tried to offer) leadership?

2. Within this situation what was possible to achieve (and why), and what constraints did you face in attempting to act in a leadership capacity? 

3. Discuss how your employment, experience, and practicum have shaped your understanding of leadership and your desire to participate in the MSW in Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities. 

This program requires students to undertake a leadership project within the context of a field placement. Describe your proposed leadership project, and some of the experience[s] you hope to have in the course of completing the project. If you have ideas about a context, sector, setting, or have a mentor with whom you’d like to complete the project, please describe.

The supplementary statement is assessed based on comprehensiveness, clarity of presentation, capacity for critical thinking, and capacity for critical reflection based on experience. The declaration of your career goals and your ability to connect these with the specific focus of this program is important.

Letters of Reference

A complete application includes three confidential letters of recommendation - one academic, and two from work colleagues. Referees will be asked to describe work that you have been involved in that they have direct knowledge of, and to comment on a) your understanding and analysis of the organizational, community or activist contexts in which you work, and b) your potential for justice-oriented leadership in social services or communities. McMaster University uses the Electronic Referencing System. You must enter the email addresses of your referees as part of the on-line application form. Your referees will receive an email message asking them to complete an eReference immediately after the 'Send to Recommender' button is clicked. You may wish to click on this button just before you submit the application. If you need to change your reference or referee email address after submitting your application, you may do so through the Applicant Portal. Referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - deadline is January 3rd at 11:59pm.

English Proficiency Requirements

If applicable, an official copy of your TOEFL score, or other evidence of competency in English is required. A minimum TOEFL score of 580 (or 237 on the computer-based TOEFL test) is needed.

Additional Information

Please complete our Pre-Application form so that we can verify your academic qualifications before you send a full application.

The School of Graduate Studies policy with regard to students with disabilities can be found in section 6.6 of the School of Graduate Studies Calendar. The full policy and further information may be obtained from the School of Graduate Studies or the Student Success Centre 905-525-9140 ext. 28652 or e-mail studentsuccess@mcmaster.ca.  For further information, consult McMaster University’s Policy for Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities.

Apply Now 

INTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES

Ontario Student Assistance Program

Application forms and brochures can be obtained from the Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office at McMaster University. Application to OSAP can be made online at http://www.osap.gov.on.ca

General Bursary & Internal Awards

Students can apply for the General Bursary by going to AwardSpring, which is accessed through the tile on their Mosaic Home page. Award Spring is a new and simpler platform for students to apply for aid and internal awards. With AwardSpring, you can complete one common application that matches you with aid and internal award opportunities you’re eligible for. It also tracks your completion of any additional requirements on a user-friendly dashboard.

The Sidney L. Blum Bursary

Established in 1989 by friends and associates in memory of Sidney L. Blum.  To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Student Financial Aid and Scholarships Office, to any graduate student in good standing in the Master’s program of the School of Social Work.

EXTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS

The Canada Graduate Scholarship Master's program (CGS-M) is only open to applicants who apply to the MSW Critical Analysis (thesis-based) program as it must have a significant research component. For more information, please see NSERC, "Program of Study Eligibility" webpage.

Please consult the School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website for information on all 

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

Course Requirements

Candidates for the PhD are required to complete a minimum of six post-MSW courses.

• SOCWORK 770, Social Work and Social Justice: Theoretical Tensions will engage students with current theorizing on the relationship between social work, social change, and social equality.
• SOCWORK 771, Research for Social Change will examine scholarship on the embedding of power relations in the production of knowledge and in the conduct of research as a mechanism of social change.
• SOCWORK 772, Qualitative Methods for Social Work examines theory, techniques, and issues of data analysis and interpretation in qualitative inquiry.
• SOCWORK 773, Doctoral Research Seminar which will examine key professional concerns among social work academics and researchers.
• Two elective courses. Students will be encouraged to take at least one of their elective courses in another department in order to profit from the interdisciplinary opportunities at McMaster.

A Ph.D. candidate admitted without master’s level courses in epistemology (SOCWORK 737) and in critical analysis of practice/policy (SOCWORK 700/731 or 701/703) will be expected to complete these courses in addition to the requirements of the doctoral program.

Candidates may be required to complete courses beyond the minimum requirements of the program in order that they achieve the breadth of perspective required by the program and are sufficiently prepared for their research.

Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive examination is designed to evaluate the breadth of students’ knowledge of debates and developments in contemporary scholarship in social work and social justice. PhD candidates are required to situate their anticipated research topics in a wide and critical review of related theory and research, and to demonstrate their capacity for the integration of ideas and their skills in scholarly inquiry and writing. Candidates will consult with their supervisor in order to define the focus and parameters of the comprehensive exam and, by September of their second year, submit a twelve page double-spaced proposal and a bibliography (of about 50 articles and book chapters) for the supervisor’s approval. With approval secured, candidates are expected to submit the completed examination (50-60 pages, plus references and appendices). The comprehensive examination requirement must be completed by the end of Year 2 as set out in the School of Graduate Studies regulations.

Dissertation

Students will be required to undertake original thesis research in areas of their substantive interest, engaging fully with its theoretical and methodological dimensions and demonstrating its contribution to academic and professional debate and action. By the beginning of their third year, students will submit a written thesis proposal to their supervisory committees, outlining the theoretical, substantive and methodological issues with which they plan to engage. PhD candidates will defend their thesis during a final oral examination. University regulations and procedures relating to supervisory committees and general degree requirements set the parameters for the program and are specified in the School of Graduate Studies calendar.

Students will bring to the PhD program critical perspectives on social work that are grounded in earlier studies and in experience in the field, as well as social research skills.

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the PhD program, applicants are normally required to have:

• a completed MSW degree with an average of at least an A-. Applicants with master’s degrees in other subjects must be able to demonstrate substantial knowledge of the social service/ social welfare field and have experience of working in justice and equity-seeking services or organizations;
• a completed graduate-level course in social research methods; and
• demonstrated interest and experience in critical approaches to policies, practices, and knowledge-building in social work.

Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications and the alignment of their interests with the research interests and availability of faculty.  Students considering admission to the PhD program are strongly encouraged to explore doctoral funding opportunities available from the Ontario Graduate Scholarship, the Social Science and Humanities Research Council, or the Canadian Institutes for Health Research.  Deadlines for these funding applications occur in the Fall prior to September admission. Please consult the School of Graduate Studies, Scholarships and Awards webpage for more details.

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Application Materials

Please upload scanned copies of all of your documents. In order for your application to be considered complete, it must include the following items:

• Online Application Form and Fee
• Statement of Interest (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• Resumé (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• Referee Reports (referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - due January 30th at 11:59pm.
• *Transcripts (applicant uploads unofficial transcript directly). Original transcripts must be sent directly from issuing institution.
• Copies of your two most recent papers, publications, presentations and/or agency reports (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• *English proficiency requirements, if applicable (applicant uploads unofficial copy; original sent directly from issuing institution)

*Note: Official transcripts and English Proficiency documents must be sent directly from issuing institution(s) to:

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

Timelines for Application

Deadline to Apply: January 15th at 11:59pm

Review of applications will begin in January and admissions will be made to outstanding candidates as early in the new year as possible. If possible, please upload an unofficial copy of your transcript(s) and English Language Proficiency (if applicable) so that we may expedite assessment of your qualifications.

Offers of admission and financial assistance are normally sent out late January to end of April.

Application Form and Fee

The portal is now open for September 2023. Application forms must be completed online. Please read this webpage thoroughly before proceeding to the How to Apply instructions on the School of Graduate Studies website.  

On the application portal, first review the "Prepare your Application for September 2023" tab before proceeding to the "Application Instructions for September 2023" tab with detailed guide which will lead you though the online application process. Then proceed to the Start Your Application page. Please note the search criteria on application portal for "Filter by Faculty" is “Social Sciences”; then scroll down list of "Programs Open for Application" and click "Apply Now" button beside description "Social Work PhD", then click on "Create an Account" link if you are a first time user OR separate link for returning user. Note: Full-time option only for "Course Type". In the “Upload Documents” section, in addition to your CV & Statement of Interest, please also upload Unofficial Transcript(s) and TOEFL (if applicable).

A non-refundable $110 (CAN) application fee is applied to all applications. The fee can be paid on-line by valid debit or credit card.

Transcripts

Applicants must provide one official transcript of university academic work completed to date, sent directly from the issuing institution to the School of Social Work (address above). Note: Original transcripts will be accepted after the application deadline.

Statement of Interest

Our PhD program takes as its central focus the fundamental tensions and challenges for social work practice and policy as they relate to social change and the enhancement of social justice. In articulating your interest in the program, please address the following (in a maximum of ten double-spaced pages):

1. a) How do you understand the relationship between social work and social justice?
2. b) In light of this understanding and the experience that you bring to the program, briefly describe your research interests and how you see your research unfolding. Using relevant literature, identify:

• issues or questions that you want to explore.
• their relationship to social justice concerns and the aims of the School’s program.
• methodological approaches that you visualize using or exploring.
• potential practice/policy implications of your research.

An MSW is normally required for admission. If your master’s degree was in a field other than social work, describe how your academic, community, activist and/or professional background prepares you for doctoral studies in our PhD program (Maximum length of 2 pages).

Letters of Reference

A complete application includes three referee report recommendations, at least two of which should be from academic referees, that assess your potential for doctoral studies and your suitability for our PhD program in social work and social justice. Referees will be asked to comment on your background (for example, your accomplishments, critical analysis skills, or engagement with social justice issues). McMaster University uses the Electronic Referencing System. You must enter the email addresses of your referees as part of the on-line application form. Your referees will receive an email message asking them to complete an eReference immediately after the 'Send to Recommender' button is clicked. You may wish to click on this button just before you submit the application. If you need to change your reference or referee email address after submitting your application, you may do so through the Applicant Portal. Referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - deadline is January 30th at 11:59pm. 

English Proficiency Requirements

If applicable, an official copy of your TOEFL score, or other evidence of competency in English is required. A minimum TOEFL score of 580 (or 237 on the computer-based TOEFL test) is needed.

Additional Information

Please complete our Pre-Application form so that we can verify your academic qualifications before you send a full application.

The School of Graduate Studies policy with regard to students with disabilities can be found in section 6.6 of the School of Graduate Studies Calendar. The full policy and further information may be obtained from the School of Graduate Studies or the Student Success Centre 905-525-9140 ext. 28652 or e-mail studentsuccess@mcmaster.ca.  For further information, consult McMaster University’s Policy for Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities.

Apply Now 

At McMaster University, full-time PhD students are guaranteed minimum funding of $17,500 (full teaching assistantship + $8000 graduate scholarship) for their first four years of study.  Support for students may also come from faculty research funds in the form of research assistantships or opportunities to apply for sessional instructor positions in the Faculty.

School of Graduate Studies, Scholarships & Funding:

https://gs.mcmaster.ca/awards-funding/awards-funding

INTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES

Ontario Student Assistance Program

Application forms and brochures can be obtained from the Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office at McMaster University. Application to OSAP can be made online at http://www.osap.gov.on.ca

General Bursary and Internal Awards

Students can apply for the General Bursary by going to AwardSpring, which is accessed through the tile on their Mosaic Home page. Award Spring is a new and simpler platform for students to apply for aid and internal awards. With AwardSpring, you can complete one common application that matches you with aid and internal award opportunities you’re eligible for. It also tracks your completion of any additional requirements on a user-friendly dashboard.

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK SCHOLARSHIP

The Penny Family Ontario Graduate Scholarship – in support of the study of social policy and social justice

Dr. Harry L. Penny, Founding Director of the School of Social Work, and his family have generously made a donation to McMaster University in order to establish an Ontario Graduate Scholarship.  The scholarship (value: $15,000) is to be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the School of Social Work, to outstanding scholars who are likely to make distinguished contributions to the study of social policy and social justice.

EXTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Canada Graduate Scholarships Doctoral (CGS-D) competition is harmonized across all three agencies (CIHR/SSHRC/NSERC). Applications are prepared and submitted by students in the SSHRC On-line System, or CIHR ResearchNet On-line System by the internal deadline set by McMaster (early October) & Vanier, LOI Stage1 pdf by internal School of Social Work deadline (early August). Note: Exact dates subject to change - please consult with the Graduate Administrative Assistant for internal School of Social Work deadlines.

Selecting the Appropriate Federal Granting Agency (all students with health-related research should carefully read this section)

SSHRC Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) Program: Doctoral Scholarships and SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships Program

• SSHRC Doctoral Scholarships - consult the School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website in August for information on Fall Competition.
  

Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) Doctoral Awards

• CIHR Doctoral Scholarships - consult the School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website in August for information on Fall Competition.

Vanier Canada Graduate Doctoral Scholarships

• applicants must have achieved a first-class average which is an A- (10/12 or above) at McMaster, in each of the last two years of full-time study or equivalent;
• applicants must demonstrate leadership as described on the Vanier website;
• SGS Vanier information, pre-application instructions and deadline 

Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)

• Ontario Graduate Scholarships - consult School of Graduate Studies Scholarships website (Under "Provincial Awards")

Students are assigned a PhD Supervisor at the time of their acceptance into the program. The Supervisor will be a faculty member of the School of Social Work. An interim Supervisor may sometimes be appointed by the chairperson of the Graduate Studies Committee until an appropriate Supervisor is identified. In exceptional circumstances, a student may make a request to the Graduate Chair that they be assigned a different PhD Supervisor.

The PhD Supervisor acts as the chair of the student's Supervisory Committee, and serves as the student`s primary research and academic advisor through the entire program.

The Graduate Diploma: Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities curriculum is comprised of four courses. Students take one of two courses that consider specific contexts of social work practice:  institutional contexts (SOCWORK 740) or community contexts (SOCWORK 721). Two required courses focus explicitly on aspects of leadership, organizational and social change; and one considers critical approaches to evidence and evaluation (a key feature of contemporary leadership).

Required Courses:

• SOCWORK 741 / Changing Social Services, Changing Communities: Focus on Leadership
• SOCWORK 742 /  Organizational and Social Change: Theories, Practices, and Possibilities for Leadership 
• SOCWORK 743 / Critical Approaches to Evidence and Evaluation in Social Services and Communities

And one of:

• SOCWORK 740 / Changing Social Service Organizations: Implications for Workers & Service Users
• SOCWORK 721 / Changing Communities: Tensions and Possibilities for Citizenship and Social Justice
• SOCSCI 708 / Critical Approaches to Community Based Research
  OR
  a graduate level course linked with the student’s program of study offered by Social Work OR by another department or academic unit (provided that permission has been obtained from those departments or academic units, and School of Social Work’s Graduate Chair).

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Critical Leadership in Social Services and Communities applicants are required to have:

• Community or social service leadership experience
• A completed M.S.W. or M.A. degree with a minimum average of A- on the whole degree. In exceptional circumstances, applicants with a Bachelor's degree and an A- average on senior-level undergraduate courses who have extensive leadership experience may be eligible

Admissions portal is currently closed.

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

The Graduate Diploma: Community-Engaged Research and Evaluation curriculum is comprised of three (3) required courses. Students take two foundation half courses that focus on community-engaged research (SOCSCI 708), and evaluation practices (SOCWORK 743). One full course (SOCWORK 744) builds on the two half courses and is the application and reflection component of the program.

Students complete the diploma online on a part-time basis. There is no requirement for students to be available on the McMaster campus. Students must have suitable access to internet and computing, and may be required to participate during business hours on Eastern Standard Time. To be awarded the diploma, students are required to complete the following online courses with minimum B- standing (70%).

Required Courses:

Two half courses:

• SOC SCI 708 / Critical Approaches to Community-Based Research (online)
  
• SOC WORK 743 / Critical Approaches to Evidence and Evaluation in Social Services and Communities (online)

One full course (over two terms):

• SOC WORK 744 / Research Experience and Seminar (online)

Program duration is normally 16 months. Except by permission of the Social Work Graduate Chair, students may take no more than one course concurrently and must complete the courses in the order listed above. Each course is offered once per calendar year. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Community-Engaged Research and Evaluation applicants are required to have:

• Experience working in social services or communities/social services
• A completed Bachelor's degree with a minimum average of B+ on senior-level courses.

Students entering the Graduate Diploma are expected to have an established partnership with a community organization or social service agency with whom they will complete their research or evaluation project as part of the Research Experience course (SOCWORK 744). If students do not have a strong partnership in place at the time of program admission they will be required to do so by the end of SOCSCI 708 (Critical Approaches to Community-Based Research) in April.

Application Materials

In order for your application to be considered complete, it must include the following items:

• Online Application Form and Fee
• Statement of Interest (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• Resumé (applicant uploads pdf directly)
• Referee Reports (referees complete online report directly using e-referencing system - due December 12th).
  
• Transcripts (applicant uploads unofficial transcript directly). Original transcripts must be sent directly from issuing institution*.
• *English proficiency requirements, if applicable (applicant uploads unofficial copy). Original document must be sent directly from issuing institution*.

*Note: Transcripts and English Proficiency documents must be sent directly from issuing institution(s) to:

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

Timelines for Application

Rolling Admission (until December 7th)

Review of applications will continue until all positions have been filled.  Transcripts and evidence of English language proficiency sent directly from the issuing institution will be accepted up to two weeks past the deadline. If you have an unofficial copy of your English Language Proficiency (if applicable) and transcript(s) available prior to the deadline date, please send by email to Darlene Savoy, Graduate Administrative Assistant so that we may expedite assessment of your qualifications.

Offers of admission will be sent out to successful candidates by email.

Application Form and Fee

The portal is open for January 2023 admission. Application forms must be completed online. Please read this webpage thoroughly before proceeding to the How to Apply instructions on the School of Graduate Studies website.  

On the application portal, first review the "Prepare your Application" tab before proceeding to the "Application Instructions for January 2023" tab with detailed guide which will lead you though the online application process. Then proceed to the Start Your Application page. Please note the search criteria on application portal for "Filter by Faculty" is “Social Sciences”; then scroll down list of "Programs Open for Application" and click "Apply Now" button beside description "Social Work - Community Engaged Research and Evaluation Graduate Diploma", then click on "Create an Account" link if you are a first time user OR separate link for returning user. For "Course Type" be sure to choose the "part-time" option as this program is not offered on a full-time basis. In the “Upload Documents” section, in addition to your CV & Statement of Interest, please also upload Unofficial Transcript(s) and TOEFL (if applicable).

A non-refundable $110 (CAN) application fee is applied to all applications. The fee can be paid on-line by valid debit or credit card.

Transcripts

Applicants must provide one official transcript of university academic work completed to date, sent directly from the issuing institution to the School of Social Work (address above).

Statement of Interest

All applicants must provide a Statement of Interest, maximum of 5 typed double-spaced pages, expanding on your resumé, covering the following areas:

1. Discuss your work experience in social services or communities. Your statement should elaborate on the sector and/or community organization with which you have an established relationship and where you intend to complete your research or evaluation project for the Research Experience course (SOCWORK 744). If you do not yet have an established partnership for your project, your statement should outline what steps you will take to ensure you have a partnership in place by April based on your knowledge, experience, and previous work.
2. Describe a challenge or question facing a community or organization with which you are familiar. Outline the significance of this challenge/ question in the context of the community or organization. Describe in a preliminary way how you might undertake a community-engaged research or evaluation project relevant to the challenge/question. Your statement should include information about the scope and feasibility of completing your research or evaluation project about the stated challenge/question based on your established relationship(s) with social services or communities. 
   
3. Indicate why you are interested in this particular diploma program and how you expect it to help you in pursuing your career and personal development. Your statement should include information about how you foresee this diploma program contributing to your established relationship(s) with specific sector(s) and/or community organization(s) and advancing community-engaged and justice-oriented outcomes, practices, and /or programs.

The supplementary statement is assessed based on comprehensiveness, clarity of presentation, capacity for critical and innovative thinking, capacity for critical reflection, and your demonstrable experience and established partnership(s). The declaration of your career goals and your ability to connect these with the specific focus of this program is important.

Letters of Reference

A complete application includes two confidential letters of recommendation - one academic, and one from a work colleague. Because students entering the Graduate Diploma are required to have an established partnership with a community organization or social service agency to complete their research or evaluation project, one letter should be from a representative of the community or agency with whom students will focus on / partner for their projects. 

Referees will be asked to describe work you have been involved in that they have direct knowledge of, and comment on a) your understanding and analysis of the organizational, community or activist contexts in which you work, and b) your capacities and potential for participatory and justice-oriented research and evaluation. Referees should specifically comment on the applicant’s established relationship(s)/partnership(s) with social service agencies/community organizations/communities to demonstrate their capacity to feasibly and effectively conduct a research or evaluation project.

McMaster University uses the Electronic Referencing System. You must enter the email addresses of your referees as part of the on-line application form. The system will automatically send an e-Reference request on your behalf to the referees once you submit your application. Reference deadline: December 12th.

English Proficiency Requirements

If applicable, an official copy of your TOEFL score, or other evidence of competency in English is required. A minimum TOEFL score of 580 (or 237 on the computer-based TOEFL test) is needed.

Additional Information

Please complete our Pre-Application form so that we can verify your academic qualifications before you send a full application.

The School of Graduate Studies policy with regard to students with disabilities can be found in section 6.6 of the School of Graduate Studies Calendar. The full policy and further information may be obtained from the School of Graduate Studies or the Student Success Centre 905-525-9140 ext. 28652 or e-mail studentsuccess@mcmaster.ca.  For further information, consult McMaster University’s Policy for Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities.

Apply Now 

Future Degree Studies

Students who successfully graduate from the Community-Engaged Research & Evaluation Graduate Diploma program, and who wish to pursue degree studies at McMaster University, may be eligible to receive academic credit towards the degree. Depending on the policies of the MA or MSW (if the student holds a BSW) program students may be considered for up to 50% of the academic credits of the new degree as determined by the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies. The student must be accepted into the program before this advanced standing is considered.

Darlene Savoy, Director's/Graduate Administrative Assistant
School of Social Work, McMaster University
1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 319
Hamilton ON L8S 4M4
dsavoy@mcmaster.ca  

24 units total

3 units

From

• SOCWORK 1AA3 - So You Think You Can Help? Introduction to Social Work I
• SOCWORK 1BB3 -  Reimagining Help: Introduction to Social Work II

3 units

From

• SOCWORK 1AA3 - So You Think You Can Help? Introduction to Social Work I
• SOCWORK 1BB3 -  Reimagining Help: Introduction to Social Work II
• ANTHROP 1AB3 – Introduction to Anthropology: Race, Religion, and Conflict
• INDIG ST 1A03 – Introduction to Indigenous Studies
• INDIG ST 1AA3 – Introduction to Contemporary Indigenous Studies
• LABRST 1C03 – The Future of Work
• PEACEST 1A03 – Introduction to Peace Studies
• SOCIOL 1C03 - Canadian Society: Social Problems, Social Policy, and the Law
• WOMENST 1A03 – Women, Culture, and Power

18 units

from

• Course List (see below)

Course List:

• ANTHROP 3F03 – Anthropology and the ‘Other’
• ANTHROP 3Y03 – Aboriginal Community Health and Well-Being (HLTHAGE 3YY3)

• GEOG 4HD3 – Geographies of Disability
• GEOG 4UF3 – Geography of Gender

• HLTHAGE 2GG3 – Mental Health and Society
• HLTHAGE 3D03 – Perspectives on Disability, Chronic Illness, and Aging
• HLTHAGE 3E03 - Ethical Issues in Health and Aging
• HLTHAGE 3R03 – Health Inequalities
• HLTHAGE 3YY3 – Aboriginal Community Health and Well-Being (ANTHROP 3Y03)

• HISTORY 2EN3 – Emancipation and Nationalism in the Caribbean
• HISTORY 3N03 – Poverty, Privilege, and Protest in Canadian History
• HISTORY 3XX3 – Human Rights in History
• HISTORY 3WW3 – Women in Canada and the U.S. from 1920

• INDIGST 2F03 – Residential Schools in Canada
• INDIGST 3J03 – Government and Politics of Indigenous People
• INDIGST 3K03 – Indigenous Human Rights
• INDIGST 3N03 – Indigenous Women: Land, Rights, and Politics

• LABRST 2W03 – Human Rights and Social Justice

• PEACEST 2B03 – Human Rights and Social Justice
• PEACEST 3HH3 – Justice and Social Welfare 

• PHILOS 2D03 - Bioethics
• PHILOS 2G03 – Social and Political Issues
• PHILOS 2YY3 – Introduction to Ethics

• POLSCI 2C03 - Force and Fear, Crime and Punishment
• POLSCI 2XX3 Politics of the Developing World
• POLSCI 3F03 – Contemporary Social Movements Popular Coalitions
• POLSCI 3K03 – Migration and Citizenship
• POLSCI 3PB3 - Politics from Below
• POLSCI 3V03 – Gender and Politics
• POLSCI 3Y03 – Democratization and Human Rights
• POLSCI 4Y03 Domination and Decolonization

• RELIGST 2C03 – Bioethics (PHILOS 2D03)
• RELIGST 2RD3 – Religion and Diversity

• SOCWORK 3B03 – Transnational Lives in a Globalizing World
• SOCWORK 3O03 – Social Work and Sexualities
• SOCWORK 3S03 – Social Work, Disability and Dis/Ableism
• SOCWORK 3T03 - Poverty and Homelessness
• SOCWORK 4C03 - Critical Perspectives on Race, Racialization, Racism, and Colonialism in Canadian Society
• SOCWORK 4I03 - Social Work & Indigenous Peoples
• SOCWORK 4L03 - Social Work with an Aging Population
• SOCWORK 4R03 - Feminist Approaches to Social Work and Social Justice
• SOCWORK 4U03 - Immigration, Settlement, and Social Work
• SOCWORK 4Y03 - Critical Issues in Mental Health and Addiction: Social, Political and Historical Perspectives from Mad Studies and Critical Disability Studies for Social Work
  
  
• SOCIOL 2EE3 – Introduction to Indigenous-Settler Relations in Canada
• SOCIOL 2FF3 - The Sociology of “Race” and Ethnicity
• SOCIOL 2HH3 - Sociology of Gender
• SOCIOL 2JJ3 - Race, Class, Gender, and Sexuality
• SOCIOL 2R03 – Perspectives on Social Inequality
• SOCIOL 2RR3 – Case Studies of Social Inequality
• SOCIOL 3MM3 – Political Sociology
• SOCIOL 3NN3 - Popular Culture and Inequality
• SOCIOL 3U03 – Sociology of Sexualities
• SOCIOL 4DD3 – Social Movements and Social Change

• WOMENST 2AA3 – Introduction to Feminist Thought
• WOMENST 3BB3 – Women and Visual Culture

 Minors are declared upon graduation.

Undergraduate Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

All undergraduate students accepted for admission to McMaster University are automatically considered for a McMaster University entrance award. Additional entrance awards, in-course scholarships, bursaries and other forms of financial assistance is available to you at various stages of their undergraduate careers.

Each scholarship, bursary, Government Aid or Work Study Program a has its own unique application process and requirements. More information on financial aid visit the Student Financial Aid & Scholarship (SFAS) Office.

Tammy Maikawa, Administrator and Academic Advisor
KTH-317

millet@mcmaster.ca

905-525-9140 ext.23793

Academic Advising

The Academic Advising office is run through the Office of the Associate Dean. The primary goal of the Advising Office is to provide all Social Sciences undergraduate students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers.

Advisors can help you make the right academic decisions by explaining policies and regulations as well as presenting different options and supports available in your studies.

An academic advisor can assist you with:

• Course requirements, dropping and adding courses
• Program selection, application, and changes
• Studying abroad
• Transfer credits
• Petitions for missed term work, deferred examinations, and special consideration
• Appeals procedures
• Referral to other campus services

Learn more about Academic Advising in the Social Sciences.