Bachelor of social work
Social workers as changemakers
Social work is a profession focused on helping individuals, families, and communities navigate complex social systems, overcome barriers to services, and advocate for change to oppressive social structures. Social workers also work with individuals to address unique challenges and support them in improving their quality of life.
UNB’s approach to social work education at the undergraduate level involves the development of critical thinking, the ability to question the status quo and a focus on social justice and change
Bachelor of social work (BSW) students acquire skills in written and verbal communications, intercultural communication, research and information literacy, policy evaluation, individual and family intervention skills, all encompassed in an anti-racist and ecologically sustainable approach.
UNB’s focus on a ‘generalist practice’
A generalist practice is the foundation for UNB Saint John’s BSW program. Students learn how to work with individuals, families and communities, with diverse cultural groups and within both community based and government organizations, such as schools, hospitals, and mental health.
Engaging with clients and learning entry-level practical skills like recording and interviewing, self-care and working in the community gives students the tools required to immerse themselves in the sector. This learning is fostered through extensive field training and experiential education at partner locations.
Emphasis on equity
The education gained in the BSW program provides a holistic understanding of historical and current cultural equity issues facing clients and the social work profession, including the effects of colonialism on Indigenous peoples in both urban and rural areas, ongoing anti-Black racism against African and Black Canadians, structural inequality of Francophone cultures, oppressive and harmful actions towards 2SLGBTQIA+ community members, and the unique issues facing rural social work practitioners. Our values and teachings aligned with the university’s overall approach to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Indigenous ways of knowing
The BSW program will incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing to encourage students to de-center harmful westernized approaches and develop the skills needed to enhance their intercultural communication skills and empathetic professional practice.
These skills are essential in the development of students’ professional identity and are rooted in social justice, trauma-informed care, anti-oppressive practice and anti-racism.
Contact bsw@unb.ca for more information.
Common questions
Who should enroll in the bachelor of social work
The bachelor of social work program at the University of New Brunswick is for students who are looking for a professional career where they will focus on supporting members of the community to overcome barriers such as poverty, addiction, mental health and housing insecurity. This program attracts students who want to become registered social workers as well as those who are looking to further their education with graduate studies.
The BSW program will provide students with the education needed to become a registered social worker in the province of New Brunswick. This registration is recognized by other Canadian provinces and territories leading to possible career opportunities across the country.
What will I learn in the bachelor of social work program?
Through the program, students become qualified to carry out and promote the enhancement of social services while critically evaluating the accessibility and equity of these services.
Students acquire skills in written and verbal communication, intercultural communication, research, and information literacy, policy evaluation, individual and family intervention skills, encompassed in anti-racist and ecologically sustainable values.
The program gives students the chance to immerse themselves in their education through extensive field training and experiential education at partnering locations.
How many spaces are available in the program each year?
The bachelor of social work program has limited enrollment, with an annual cohort of 35 to 40 students. This allows for supportive interactions with instructors and peers.
Given this limited number, admission is competitive. Applications must be received by Jan. 31 prior to the beginning of the academic year for which the applicant is seeking admission. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.
How long does it take to complete the BSW?
The bachelor of social work at the University of New Brunswick is comprised of two years of full-time professional studies and field education following completion of two years university or accepted transfer program from NBCC.
The BSW is intended for applicants who have successfully completed two years of full-time post-secondary education (or equivalent).
What are the program’s admission requirements?
The minimum requirements for admission to the bachelor of social work degree program include:
- 60 credit hours of courses, including required pre-requisite courses (listed in the bullets immediately below) with a minimum grade of C
- 6 credit hours of lower-level psychology
- 6 credit hours of lower-level sociology
- 3 credit hours of lower-level politics
Or, the completion of a Social Service Community Worker Diploma granted by the New Brunswick Community College, with a grade of 75% or higher.
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required, based on the most recent 60 credit hours at the post-secondary level of study.
Meeting admission requirements does not guarantee admission. The number of places available in the program are limited and admission is competitive.
How can I apply to the bachelor of social work?
To apply, external applicants must complete the UNB online application. Continuing UNB students may complete the undergraduate transfer request form available within UNB services.
The bachelor of social work program welcomes all applicants and encourages equity deserving/denied groups to apply to the program.
What are my career options after graduation?
Potential areas of employment for those with a Bachelor of Social Work degree may include:
- Community outreach social worker
- Employment with not-for-profit community organizations
- Social/Political advocacy
- School social worker
- Program and policy development
- Mental Health services
- Addictions counsellor
- Hospital social worker
- Child welfare
- Adoption services
- Probation/Correction services
- Services for veterans
- Interventionist with children and families
- Adult services
