Working Conditions
Most social workers work full-time although it is possible to work part-time. Recent graduates in social work practise under supervision for administrative and professional development purposes. Many employers offer staff development training. Social workers providing direct services spend most of their time with clients in their offices or in the client’s home. They also spend time in consultation with other professionals such as psychologists, teachers, physicians, lawyers or other persons concerned in a specific case.
The average earnings for social workers in 1995 was $33,023. In 1996, the average annual earnings of social workers who worked full-time, full year, varied from $35,428 in Newfoundland & Labrador to $56,377 in the Yukon. However, earnings may vary substantially among provinces and even within a province. The provincial organization of social workers may be able to provide more information on wages in a particular province.
Training
Social work education consists of theoretical courses and practical training at the undergraduate or graduate level.
In most provinces the Bachelor of Social Work is the minimum educational requirement for entry into the profession. Postgraduate education leading to a master’s or doctoral degree is also available.
A four-year undergraduate program is required for a bachelor’s degree. Persons who have a Bachelor of Social Work degree may obtain a master’s degree after one year of postgraduate studies. Those who have a degree in another discipline would require a two-year postgraduate program in social work to obtain the master’s degree in social work.
The Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work has the responsibility for accrediting university-based social work programs. This association publishes a directory of accredited programs. As admission requirements and program orientation vary among schools, interested persons should consult the directory or communicate with the school of their choice.
As a preparation at the secondary school level, courses such as economics, social policy, sociology, psychology and philosophy are useful. Voluntary work in a social service agency is a plus.
For information about social work education in Canada contact the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work (CASSW) at the address below.
The Social Worker Profile
According to the 1996 census, 70.6% of social workers were women, and 64.7% were in the 35 to 54 age group.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Canadian Association of Social Workers383 Parkdale Avenue, Suite 402Ottawa, ON K1Y 4R4Phone: (613) 729-6668 FAX: (613) 729-9608
Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work (CASSW)383 Parkdale Avenue, Suite 206Ottawa, ON K1Y 4R4Phone: (613) 792-1953 FAX: (613) 792-1956
NOTE: Content of “The Social Work Profession” can be copied freely provided that the source of information (CASW) is acknowledged.
