New social work program offered now at this Brampton university

Students interested in working in the high-demand field of social work can take the first step by studying at Brampton’s Algoma University.

The school’s Bachelor of Social Work Program is now available at their downtown Brampton campus, with a focus on providing Indigenous, structural, critical feminist and anti-racism perspectives that benefit communities of all kinds.

Social workers are currently in high demand, and students who graduate from the program are eligible to register as professionals with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), something that’s required by many employers in the field.

Those interested in the program are encouraged to visit Algoma University’s website to apply or get more information.

Here’s what to expect from the four-year Bachelor of Social Work Program at Algoma University:

A degree with great career prospects

With social workers in high demand in Canada – especially in northern, rural, and remote areas – graduates of the program will find no shortage of job opportunities once they enter the field. Algoma University’s program was developed in consultation with local employers in Ontario who have cited a growing need for social workers.

There’s a wide range of different jobs that are open to anyone carrying a bachelor’s degree in social work, with many options that are both well-paying and allow one to make a real difference in their community. Possible job positions include Outreach Worker, Health Educator, Guidance Counselor, Substance Abuse Counselor, Probation Officer, and Caseworker, among many others.

Hands-on experience in the field

As part of the program, students complete a 700-hour field placement which offers valuable real-life experience working in a social work setting and helps students transition into a full-time career in the field. Those who are college graduates or already have the applicable work experience may be eligible for a reduction in their field practicum hours so they can graduate faster.

Unique cultural perspectives in an intimate learning environment

Graduates of the four-year Bachelor of Social Work degree are equipped to practice anti-oppressive social work at the entry-level, ideal for the many diverse communities found in Canada. Algoma University knows the impact that colonial actions, legislation, policy and institutions have on Indigenous Peoples, and they’re committed to preparing students to reflect on how their work as future social workers has a role in moving towards a better future for all people.

As with all programs offered at the school, Algoma University aims to be community-oriented and accessible with smaller more intimate class sizes. This means students get more access to their professors, and professors can offer a personalized approach to help each student succeed. The small class sizes also allow students to work closely with their peers, with numerous opportunities for experiential, hands-on, and cross-cultural learning.

More offered at Brampton’s Algoma University

The Bachelor of Social Work Program is just one of the newer programs at the school’s Brampton campus, which also offers Marketing, Accounting, Finance and Economics, Community Economic & Social Development, and a unique, hands-on Aviation program.

With its campus located in the heart of downtown Brampton, Algoma University is easy to get to – it’s just a few minutes away from the Brampton GO station and downtown Brampton bus terminal for easy commuting, and is close walking distance to some of the city’s most popular attractions: Garden Square, Rose Theatre, PAMA, Brampton Library’s Four Corners Branch, YMCA, Gage Park, and the many downtown shops and restaurants.

To apply or see full admission requirements for program, visit Algoma University’s website.

For more information on everything Algoma University has to offer, check the school’s website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages (@algomau, @aubrampton and @discoveralgomau).