Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UNBC is designed to prepare stud...
Bachelor of Social Work
Prince George
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is designed to prepare students for professional practice in the field of social work. This program emphasizes a holistic approach to social work practice, focusing on social justice, human rights, and the empowerment of individuals, families, and communities. Through a combination of classroom instruction, field education placements, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to address complex social issues and promote positive social change.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSW program at UNBC covers a wide range of topics related to social work theory, practice, and research. Core courses provide students with a strong foundation in social work principles, ethics, and values, while specialized courses focus on areas such as social policy, human behavior and development, diversity and cultural competence, and social work practice methods. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests and career goals, allowing them to explore specific areas of social work practice in more depth.
Research Focus: UNBC's BSW program emphasizes the importance of research-informed practice, encouraging students to critically evaluate social work theory and practice and to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Faculty members are actively involved in research across various areas of social work, including Indigenous social work, mental health, child welfare, poverty and inequality, and community development. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects, participate in research conferences, and collaborate with faculty on research initiatives that address pressing social issues and contribute to evidence-based practice.
Industry Engagement: The BSW program at UNBC fosters strong connections with social service agencies, community organizations, and government departments to provide students with practical learning experiences and opportunities for professional development. Through field education placements, students gain hands-on experience working in diverse settings such as child welfare agencies, mental health centers, community health organizations, and Indigenous service providers. Industry partners play an integral role in students' education, providing supervision, mentorship, and support as students apply social work theory to practice in real-world settings.
Global Perspective: UNBC's BSW program integrates a global perspective into its curriculum, recognizing the interconnected nature of social issues and the importance of understanding cultural diversity and globalization in social work practice. Courses explore global social issues such as migration, refugee resettlement, human trafficking, and international development, highlighting the role of social workers in addressing these challenges at local, national, and global levels. Study abroad opportunities, international field placements, and cross-cultural learning experiences further enhance students' understanding of global social issues and prepare them to work effectively in diverse cultural contexts.
Location
Prince George
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 23818
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for International Students:
Application Fees: CAD $ 125
Academic Requirements: International students should have a minimum average of 65% or equivalent in their high school or secondary school studies. This average is calculated based on the applicant's best six academic courses.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 65 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 105 on the Duolingo English Test.
The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
International Excellence Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students entering their first year of study at UNBC. The scholarship values range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the academic achievements of the students.
International Major Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students entering undergraduate programs in specific disciplines, such as Business Administration, Environmental Science, Computer Science, and more. The scholarship amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year.
External Scholarships: UNBC also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. The university provides resources and information about external scholarships that international students can apply for, including government scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations.
International Student Work Study Program: UNBC offers an International Student Work Study Program that provides on-campus employment opportunities for international students. This program allows students to gain work experience while studying and earn income to support their education.
Donor-Funded Scholarships: UNBC has a range of donor-funded scholarships that are available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are supported by generous contributions from individuals, organizations, and businesses who value education and want to support students in their academic journey.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year. Applying for scholarships at UNBC usually requires a separate application process, and some scholarships may require additional documentation, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements. International students are encouraged to carefully review the scholarship requirements and deadlines to ensure a successful application.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values to pursue rewarding careers in various fields of social work.
Social Worker: As licensed professionals, BSW graduates can work as social workers in a wide range of settings, including healthcare institutions, social service agencies, schools, government departments, and non-profit organizations. They provide counseling, advocacy, and support services to individuals, families, and communities facing social and emotional challenges such as poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, mental illness, and substance abuse. Social workers assess clients' needs, develop intervention plans, and connect them with resources and services to improve their well-being and quality of life.
Child Welfare Worker: BSW graduates may specialize in child welfare and work for child protection agencies, foster care programs, adoption agencies, or advocacy organizations. They assess the safety and well-being of children and families, investigate allegations of abuse or neglect, and intervene to protect children from harm. Child welfare workers collaborate with families, caregivers, and community partners to develop plans for reunification, family preservation, or alternative care arrangements, ensuring that children receive the support and protection they need to thrive.
Mental Health Counselor: BSW graduates can pursue careers as mental health counselors, providing counseling and therapeutic services to individuals struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. They work in mental health clinics, hospitals, community health centers, correctional facilities, and private practices, offering individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychoeducation to help clients manage their symptoms, build coping skills, and achieve recovery and resilience.
Community Development Worker: BSW graduates may work as community development workers, empowering communities to address social, economic, and environmental challenges and improve their quality of life. They collaborate with community members, organizations, and local governments to identify needs, assets, and priorities, and to develop and implement programs and initiatives that promote social inclusion, civic engagement, and sustainable development. Community development workers facilitate community meetings, organize events, and advocate for social justice and equity, empowering communities to create positive social change.
School Social Worker: BSW graduates can pursue careers as school social workers, providing support services to students, families, and school staff to address social, emotional, and behavioral issues that impact learning and well-being. They work in schools, school districts, or educational agencies, collaborating with teachers, counselors, and administrators to identify students at risk, assess their needs, and develop intervention plans to promote academic success, positive behavior, and healthy social-emotional development. School social workers also provide crisis intervention, counseling, and advocacy services to students and families facing challenges such as bullying, homelessness, or family conflict.
Policy Analyst: BSW graduates with an interest in social policy and advocacy may pursue careers as policy analysts, working for government agencies, research institutes, advocacy organizations, or non-profit think tanks. They analyze social policies, laws, and regulations related to issues such as poverty, housing, healthcare, education, and social welfare, and evaluate their impact on individuals, families, and communities. Policy analysts conduct research, develop policy recommendations, and advocate for legislative and systemic changes to address social inequalities, promote social justice, and advance the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Substance Abuse Counselor: BSW graduates can specialize in substance abuse counseling and work with individuals struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol. They provide assessment, counseling, and support services to help clients overcome addiction, develop coping skills, and maintain sobriety. Substance abuse counselors work in addiction treatment centers, rehabilitation facilities, community health clinics, and correctional settings, conducting individual and group therapy sessions, facilitating support groups, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care and support to clients on their journey to recovery.
Geriatric Social Worker: BSW graduates may choose to specialize in geriatric social work and work with older adults and their families to address issues related to aging, health, and long-term care. They provide support services such as case management, counseling, and advocacy to help older adults navigate the challenges of aging, access community resources, and maintain independence and quality of life. Geriatric social workers may work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospice care, senior centers, or home healthcare agencies, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care and support to older adults and their families.
