Bachelor of Social Work

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative journey with the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at VIU International, an undergraduate degree designed for those passionate about driving social justice and supporting vulnerable populations. In a world grappling with complex issues like mental health, trauma, and systemic inequality, social workers are essential change agents. This program equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to address these challenges at individual, community, and societal levels, fostering well-being and advocating for a more equitable world.

This full-time, on-campus BSW program, studied over four years, immerses you in core social work practice skills, community social work theory, and policy analysis. You will engage in hands-on learning through extensive practicum placements, working alongside experienced professionals in diverse settings. Through modules focusing on trauma, child welfare, and Indigenous communities, you will develop critical competencies. Graduates are prepared for rewarding careers in child welfare, mental health services, healthcare, and community development, equipped to make a tangible difference.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program equips students with foundational knowledge and advanced skills for professional practice. Through coursework in areas such as social work theory, practice skills, and specialized topics like child welfare and community engagement, students develop a comprehensive understanding of social work principles. The program culminates in practical experience through extensive practicum placements, preparing graduates for impactful roles in diverse social service settings.

1 Year 3 Credits

Foundations in social work
Community social work: Theory and practice
Social work practice skills
Social work with groups
Trauma and resiliency across the lifespan
Law and social services
Interpersonal communication in structural social work practice
Practicum: Community social work practice

2 Year 4 Credits

Advanced community practice with diverse populations
Advanced seminar in reflective social work practice
Social policy and communities
Research methods for social change in community social work
Social work practice with Indigenous communities
Social work and mental health
Practicum: Community practice II

3 Child Welfare Specialization

Foundations in social work
Community social work: Theory and practice
Social work practice skills
Social work with groups
Trauma and resiliency across the lifespan
Law and social services
Interpersonal communication in structural social work practice
Child abuse and neglect concerns
Practicum: Community social work practice

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 71,515.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,167.00 - USD 3,901.00
Transport USD 781.00 - USD 1,214.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,041.00 - USD 1,561.00
Estimated Total USD 3,989.00 - USD 6,676.00

Living cost estimates are based on Nanaimo campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

75%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Cloud Computing & InfrastructureData Science & AnalyticsEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHealthcare ConsultingMedical Research & Clinical TrialsProduct Management & UXPublic Health & EpidemiologySpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Fraser Health Authority

GE HealthCare

Island Crisis Care Society

Island Health

Maple Brain Healthcare Inc.

Why Study Bachelor of Social Work at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bachelor of Social Work at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus jobs also allow unlimited hours without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English proficiency requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, each with specific minimum scores. Ensure you meet these standards for your application.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue jobs such as social worker, child welfare specialist, mental health counselor, or community service manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

Are you interested in a career where you can make a difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in society? With a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, you can devote your career to helping solve social justice issues and helping people overcome some of life’s most difficult challenges such as addiction, mental health and domestic violence.

A degree in social work gives you the professional skills to develop interventions to solve social and personal problems.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Bachelor of Social Work program begins its intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time.
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