r/socialworkcanada

I’m in my last year of my BSW, and MSW applications are right now.

Im feeling discouraged to apply as I know that Toronto MSW programs are really competitive. I don’t have experience really other than my practicum placements. I’ve been struggling to find work experience, and I also haven’t connected with a professor enough to have them write me a letter.

So this just might be a fault in my part, but I initially felt more inclined to take a break.

However getting an MSW is the natural next step and I’m seeing that it’s what everyone makes an effort to do and for good reason. I’m discouraged to apply because I just don’t think I’ll get in.

I guess I’m just torn because I wanted to take a break but that might not be the smartest decision. I don’t know it’s all really confusing 😭. Will I get anywhere with a BSW? Am I not trying enough, like is this thought process incredibly dumb.

Not sure if this post makes sense but I’ll take any advice or criticism 😭🫠.

I am a Finance professional thinking of going back to school for Social service work in January 2027. I would really appreciate some feedback on what the work life expectations are as a social service worker. What does your typical day look like? Any insight into salaries will also be great! Thanks in advance.

Edit: Located in the GTA.

I have a BFA and have been working for the past five years as a graphic designer. I’m worried with the rise of ai so I’m looking into pursuing social work. I am wondering if it is possible to obtain an MSW with a degree in an art field? If Anyone has gone through a similar route, what did you end up working in? Thanks!

I’m considering getting a MSW but for the past 5 months i’ve been preparing for the LSAT convincing myself that I want to pursue Law. For background, my bachelors is in social justice and I have non profit experience working with immigrants one on one in their job search. I love the one on one aspect of this job and helping clients, but i’ve been laid off twice now and i’m tired of job hunting and finding contract roles after contract roles.

I want stability and an education that guarantees a pathway and opportunities that I wouldn’t otherwise be able to get. I live in BC and would probably prefer to go to school here and work here. Potentially do travel social work but I don’t even know if that’s a real option. I’m just worried i’m going to do a masters and end up in the same place I am now, hunting for jobs that pay around 54k that are 1-2 year contracts and unstable.

I’m also curious about work life balance, a big reason why i’m doubtful of law field is the stories of how there’s a lack of separation. I’m ideally looking for a job that pays around 90k a year and keeps me busy while working but i can log off at the end of the day and check out mentally.

Is this a likely scenario after a MSW and is there advice on which schools are recommended?

I understand this is a sw sub, however I can’t find any specific sub for my SSW diploma program.

For my second year placement there is an opportunity with the Alzheimer’s Society. I have not previously worked with senior populations and I am curious to gain some insight as to what an emotional support system may look like in this environment as a student.

The website is quite broad, if anyone could share some experiences from a related placement or job that would be extremely helpful. I have concern regarding the overlap of skills required in the psw program- aka, should I expect in this environment to be more concerned with the skills they expect of psw students or staff?

I am wondering if anybody has any experience or knowledge of organizations that offer virtual/online placements for social work students? I’m in Alberta and currently work full time in a front-line role within the justice system. Quitting my job or working less hours is unfortunately not an option as I rely solely on my income to survive.

Thank you :)

I have a BSc and MSc in biology and have been working in healthcare research for 5 years now, I would like to move into social work. I'm currently working in community-based HIV and women's health research, I am basically in a clinic doing in-depth interviews with women who are racialized, stigmatized, and/or struggle with mental health and substance use. I don't want to do research forever but love working with this population, so social work seems like a natural next step.

I am considering a post-degree BSW but not sure if I should aim for a MSW instead. Has anyone changed careers after an academic career? If you already have a Master's degree does it make sense to go back for a bachelor's degree?

Also curious if anyone has insight on the job prospects having a BSW vs MSW. In science for example sometimes a PhD gives you less job prospects than only a Master's degree.