Honours in Social Work (BSW)
Social work provides the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. By addressing social injustices, advocating for marginalized groups, and providing support to those in need, social workers contribute to positive societal change.
Social workers are at the forefront of advocating for social justice and equality. They challenge systemic barriers, promote human rights, and work towards creating a more just and inclusive society. As part of a global profession, social workers contribute significantly to international development efforts, advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations worldwide, and fostering collaboration with diverse communities across borders.
Our social work undergraduate studies program equips individuals with the communication, assessment, critical thinking, advocacy, collaboration, ethical practice, and leadership skills necessary for effectively supporting clients, addressing social issues, and promoting positive change. Aligned closely with the pioneering role of social workers in advocating for social justice and equality, our program emphasizes the prioritization of these principles throughout our curriculum and initiatives.
The world of social work encompasses a wide range of fields and settings, including healthcare, child welfare, mental health, education, criminal justice and community development. This diversity enables individuals to pursue careers that resonate with their interests and passions.
Program Details
Typical Entry Term
Fall (September)
Program Options
Full-time or part-time
Program Length
Four years (full-time)
Program Format
Course-based & Placement-based
Expandable List
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). 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.
View our admissions process and mandatory application components for the Honours BSW program on our Admissions & Applications page.
The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the Honours in Social Work.
Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)
Level I Courses
- SOCWORK 1AA3: So You Think You Can Help? Introduction to Social Work I
- SOCWORK 1BB3: Re-imagining Help: Introduction to Social Work II
Level II Courses
- SOCWORK 2CC3: Introduction to Community Practice
- SOCWORK 2A06 A/B: Theory, Process and Communication Skills for Social Work
- SOCWORK 2BB3: Anti-Oppressive Social Work
Level III Courses
- SOCWORK 3E03: Individual Practice Across the Lifespan
- SOCWORK 3D06/3DD6: General Social Work I & Field Practicum I
Level IV Courses
- SOCWORK 4X03: SW with Families
- SOCWORK 4ZZ3: General Welfare
- SOCWORK 4D06/4DD6: General Social Work II and Field Practicum II
Honours in Social Work (BSW) graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom
Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.
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Customize Your Studies
Our flexible degrees let you study your way.
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Field Education Explore Field Education Opportunities
Gain valuable workplace experience from practitioners in human services settings.
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Social Work Program Course Calendar View Course Calendar
The School of Social Work course calendar is an essential resources for choosing your courses.
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Internships Learn More
Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.
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Student Research Learn More
Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.
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Minors View Minors
Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.
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Study Abroad Learn More
Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.
Questions about the Honours BSW Program?
Contact Us
Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: oconnell@mcmaster.ca
Office Location
Department of Social Work
Kenneth Taylor Hall, 319
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4
Office Hours
Monday – Friday:
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM