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.

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.

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.

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.