Prepare for a rewarding career and make a difference advocating for Indigenous people, organizations and communities. Study the holistic, interdisciplinary, activist nature of social work, with an emphasis on Indigenous issues.

This innovative program is ideal for those who want to support the collective strengths of Indigenous families, individuals and communities.

You will gain the knowledge and skills required to work effectively in Indigenous settings and situations. Examine complex issues and explore the economic, spiritual, cultural and health realities that affect the safety and well-being of Indigenous populations.

Apply for entrance to the Social Work program after completing 60 credit hours (two years) of study in the humanities and sciences. Study contemporary academic theory and put it to work in a relevant field placement.

Applications are also accepted from those with a community college social service worker certificate.

You will also gain the necessary academic qualifications to apply for certification as a Registered Social Worker (RSW) from the BC College of Social Workers.

The School of Social Work offers a schedule of studies leading to the degree of Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).

The Bachelor of Social Work is designed to prepare students for beginning-level generalized social work practice with individuals, families, groups and communities. The program's orientation places emphasis on Social Work in northern and remote areas, Indigenous peoples, women and the human services, and community practice and research. Analyses of class, gender and race relations are considered central to the Social Work program. As mandated by its accrediting body, the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE), and the relevant Social Work Codes of Ethics, Social Work at UNBC provides a professional program prepares graduates with the intellectual, analytical, practical and professional skills needed to advocate for justice and equality and to promote beneficial change.

The Indigenous Specialization provides a program of study that prepares students for practice with Indigenous peoples while also satisfying the general practice criteria required for UNBC BSW accreditation and for designation as a Registered Social Worker (RSW).

Students must meet all prerequisites for entry into the UNBC BSW program, and must be accepted into the program. The fourth-year practicum takes place in an Indigenous setting.

Career Paths
Social Services agency manager
Corrections officer
Social policy analyst
Government liaison
Health care social worker
This degree provides a strong foundation for further studies in disciplines such as education, medicine, and law, or for pursuing your master's or PhD.