NICOLA VALLEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · CANADA
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Only Indigenous-centred BSW in BCUnique Program Focus
- Specializations in Child Welfare or Indigenous Health CareSpecialization Options
- Accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work EducationAccreditation
- 2 years full-timeProgram Duration
- Hybrid option available in MerrittFlexible Delivery
The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program that uniquely integrates Indigenous perspectives and social justice principles. This program is the only Indigenous-centred BSW in British Columbia. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to practice social work ethically and effectively with diverse individuals, families, and communities, emphasizing principles of social justice and community healing. Elders play a valued role in the program, contributing to an educational framework that respects diversity, equality, and the inherent worth of all individuals. Graduates will be prepared to work with both Indigenous and mainstream populations, enhancing their capacity to contribute to social change. The BSW program is fully accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education. Students have the option to specialize in Child Welfare or Indigenous Health Care from the beginning of the program, with their fourth-year practicum placement aligning with their chosen specialization. It is also possible to complete the degree without a specialization.
Curriculum
The BSW program is structured over two years of study, with specific course requirements for the third and fourth years. Students will engage in theoretical learning, research, and practical field experience.
- Third Year
- Theory and Ideology of Social WorkSOCW 306
- Indigenous Perspectives on Social PolicySOCW 311
- Trauma-Informed Social Work Theory & PracticeSOCW 320
- Social Work Practice with IndividualsSOCW 353
- Introduction to Social Work ResearchSOCW 301
- Social Work Field PracticeSOCW 304
- Social Work ElectivesSOCW Elective
- Fourth Year
- Ethical Practice in Aboriginal CommunitiesSOCW 404
- Aboriginal Social Work PracticeSOCW 486
- Social Work Field PracticeSOCW 402
- University Transfer or Social Work CoursesVarious
Careers
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program are prepared for a variety of professional roles. The skills and knowledge gained enable them to work in diverse settings and to advocate for individuals and communities.
- Child welfare
- Healthcare
- Education
- Community services
- Advocacy
- Corrections
- Indigenous-focused roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Social Work program?
- Applicants generally need a minimum of 54 credits from general university studies (including English and specific social work courses) with a GPA of 2.33 (C+), or a Human Service Worker/Social Work diploma with a GPA of 2.67 (B-) on completed coursework. Specific prerequisites like SOCW 200A and SOCW 200B are required for program entry. A complete list of additional requirements is in the BSW Application Package.
- How long is the Bachelor of Social Work program?
- The Bachelor of Social Work program is structured over two years of full-time study for students who meet the prerequisite credit requirements. Students entering with less than 60 credits may take longer to complete the degree.
- What specializations are available within the BSW program?
- Students can choose to specialize in Child Welfare or Indigenous Health Care from the beginning of the program, with their fourth-year practicum aligning with their chosen specialization. It is also possible to complete the degree without a specialization.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in child welfare, healthcare, education, community services, advocacy, corrections, and Indigenous-focused roles. The program equips students to work with diverse populations and contribute to social change.
- How can I apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program?
- You can apply online through Education Planner BC or download and complete the application form from the NVIT website. The application deadline is January 31st.
Entry requirements
General University StudiesMinimum of 54 credits, including 3 credits of academic English composition (e.g., ENGL 110) or 6 credits of English literature, plus SOCW 200A and SOCW 200B. A minimum GPA of 2.33 (C+) on general university coursework is required. General studies may include Human Service/Social Service Certificate/Diploma courses and liberal arts/humanities/social science courses (e.g., English, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Political Studies, History, Languages, First Nations Studies, Women’s Studies).
Combined Human Service Program and General University CoursesAt least 54 credits, including 3 credits of academic English composition (ENGL 110) or 6 credits of English literature, plus SOCW 200A and SOCW 200B (or equivalents). A completed Human Service Worker/Social Work diploma is also required. A minimum GPA of 2.67 (B-) on completed coursework is needed for entry.
Certificate or Diploma in related social servicesA minimum GPA of 2.67 (B-) is required. Students with a certificate or diploma may receive up to 12 discretionary credits. Note: Students entering with less than 60 credits may take longer than two years to complete the BSW degree. SOCW 200A and SOCW 200B or equivalents are prerequisites for program entry.
PSYC 213 and PSYC 223 are recommended before entering the program and/or must be completed in the 3rd or 4th year. These courses are required for graduation. Students who do not meet program requirements should contact the Department Coordinator or an NVIT Academic Planner about upgrading opportunities. The complete list of additional admission requirements is available in the BSW Application Package.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Information regarding tuition and living costs is not available on the program page. Prospective students are encouraged to explore financial aid options, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants, through NVIT's financial aid resources.
How to apply
1. Choose Your ProgramBrowse NVIT's programs to find the Bachelor of Social Work. For admission inquiries, book an appointment with a Recruiter via the provided Outlook link.
2. Submit Your ApplicationApply online through Education Planner BC or download and complete the application form available on the NVIT website.
3. Receive an Offer LetterAfter submission, you will receive either a Conditional Offer Letter or a Full Offer Letter via email from the Registrar’s Office.
Scholarships
Scholarships, Bursaries, Grants, Entrance Awards—
Accreditation
The NVIT BSW degree program is fully accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Social Work program?
+
Applicants generally need a minimum of 54 credits from general university studies (including English and specific social work courses) with a GPA of 2.33 (C+), or a Human Service Worker/Social Work diploma with a GPA of 2.67 (B-) on completed coursework. Specific prerequisites like SOCW 200A and SOCW 200B are required for program entry. A complete list of additional requirements is in the BSW Application Package.
How long is the Bachelor of Social Work program?
+
The Bachelor of Social Work program is structured over two years of full-time study for students who meet the prerequisite credit requirements. Students entering with less than 60 credits may take longer to complete the degree.
What specializations are available within the BSW program?
+
Students can choose to specialize in Child Welfare or Indigenous Health Care from the beginning of the program, with their fourth-year practicum aligning with their chosen specialization. It is also possible to complete the degree without a specialization.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in child welfare, healthcare, education, community services, advocacy, corrections, and Indigenous-focused roles. The program equips students to work with diverse populations and contribute to social change.
How can I apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program?
+
You can apply online through Education Planner BC or download and complete the application form from the NVIT website. The application deadline is January 31st.