Education Requirements
Minimum Needed
Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Child and Youth Care, Psychology, Human Service Work , a Social Science subject, or Health related discipline.
or
Bachelor's Degree in a Humanities or Interdisciplinary Studies subject combined with appropriate Research Methods courses.
Some Employers Prefer
Master’s Degree related to Social Work or Health.
Expert Advice
Social Science subjects are: Adult Education, Anthropology, Child and Youth Care, Communication and Media Studies, Criminology, Economics, Geography, Gerontology, Linguistics, Peace & Conflict Studies, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology.
Education Pathway Advice
To explore how you can build on your bachelor's degree:
Download the Post Graduate GuideCareer Pathway Advice
Before Graduation
- Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
- Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
- Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
- Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
- Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
- Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. This means knowing that future employers care about the GPA of students they plan to invest their resources in.
- Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
- Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
- Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.
After Graduation
- Show enthusiasm and drive for further formal training needed by your employer. This may take the form of a structured training program or courses that leads to an industry credential.
- Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
- Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
- Keep your jobs search documents updated.
- Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn and professional membership or associations.
Spotlight Requirements
- Leadership, management and/or supervisory skills & training are needed. These abilities are normally developed over several years.
- Progressive experience in the same field.
Note: You should always confirm admission requirements for your desired program with your intended university.