Social Work
What is Social Work?
Social Work is a practice-based discipline committed to social justice, equity, and community well-being. At McMaster, students explore how personal challenges are shaped by broader social structures – such as poverty, racism, and colonialism – and learn to advocate for change.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical practice, and transformative leadership, preparing students to work in diverse human service settings.
What Might You Study?
Courses in Social Work examine individual, family, and community issues through a justice-focused lens:
Anti-Oppressive Practice
Challenging systemic barriers and promoting equity
Social Policy & Advocacy
Understanding and transforming institutions
Community Development
Supporting grassroots change and empowerment
Mental Health & Disability
Navigating care systems and ethical practice
Indigenous Perspectives
Decolonizing social work and promoting reconciliation
Field Education
Applying theory through placements in real-world settings
Program Options
Program Type |
Description |
| Honours Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) | Core undergraduate program with two field placements and critical practice focus |
| Bachelor of Social Work (Post-Degree) | For students with an existing undergraduate degree |
| Concurrent Certificate in Child Welfare | Specialized training in child protection |
| Indigenous Pathway | Alternate admissions and curriculum supports for Indigenous students |
| Graduate Programs (MSW, PhD) | Focused on critical analysis, leadership, and social justice |
| Graduate Diplomas | In Community-Engaged Research or Critical Leadership |
| Interdisciplinary Minor in Social Justice and Inclusive Communities | Add equity-focused insight to any major |
* Courses range from topics like So You Think You Can Help?, Social Work with Families, Social Movements & Advocacy, Critical Perspectives on Race & Colonialism, and Social Work and Sexualities
Unique Opportunities
Social Work students engage with real-world challenges through experiential learning, community partnerships, and interdisciplinary research – preparing them to lead change in social services, policy, and advocacy.
Facilities & Resources
While not lab-based, the department offers collaborative spaces and applied learning environments:
- Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH): Home to faculty offices, classrooms, and student meeting spaces
- Field Education Program: Two major placements in community agencies during third and fourth year
- Faculty-Led Research Teams: Focused on homelessness, health equity, child welfare, and more
- Community-Engaged Research Hub: Supports participatory and justice-focused projects
- The Feast Centre: Advances Indigenous-led research on STBBIs through community partnerships, decolonizing methods, and knowledge sharing.
Students explore social issues through case studies, interviews, policy analysis, and community-based research.
Experiential Learning & Internships
Students gain hands-on experience through placements, advocacy work, and applied coursework:
Key highlights:
- Two field placements in human service organizations
- Courses in interviewing, case analysis, and ethical practice
- Opportunities to work with Indigenous, racialized, and marginalized communities
- Career planning course (SOC SCI 2EL3)
- Graduate students complete thesis, research papers, or community-based projects
These experiences prepare students for careers in social work, policy, education, and community leadership.
Study Abroad & Global Opportunities
Social Work students can broaden their perspectives through international exchanges and global research:
Key highlights:
- McMaster Exchange Program with 100+ global partner universities
- Study abroad while earning McMaster credits
- Courses on global justice, migration, and human rights
- Funding support through fellowships and travel bursaries
- Opportunities to attend international conferences and collaborate with global scholars
These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for global careers in advocacy and social services.
Student Life & Community
Social Work offers a vibrant and supportive student experience rooted in equity and collaboration:
Key highlights:
- Social Work Students Collective (SWSC): Fosters connection and advocacy for Social Work students through events, resources, and peer support
- Learning in Colour: Amplifies racialized students’ voices to foster safer, more inclusive classrooms through storytelling, advocacy, and educational tools
- Peer mentorship and student-led advocacy projects
- Collaboration with Sociology, Health Studies, Indigenous Studies, and more
- Inclusive environment that values compassion, justice, and critical inquiry
Students build lasting relationships while working toward a more equitable society.