Bow Valley College

Social Work Diploma

Calgary, Canada Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary provides a student-centered, career-focused education designed for practical outcomes. Founded in 1965, the college emphasizes small classes, applied learning and strong support services, serving a diverse community with programs aligned to local and global labour needs. Its compact urban location gives students access to Calgary’s business and cultural scene while benefiting from a close-knit campus atmosphere.

Programs at Bow Valley prioritize employability through practicum placements, industry-relevant curricula and active partnerships with employers. Faculty and staff bring real-world experience to the classroom, and the college’s high graduate employment rate reflects its commitment to career-ready training. Support services, language instruction and workshops ensure students develop both technical skills and the intercultural competencies needed to succeed in multicultural workplaces.

International students will find resources to help with transition, including advising, orientation and opportunities to engage in volunteer and campus activities that build networks and professional experience. The college’s focus on affordability and transfer pathways also makes it attractive for those planning further study in Canada. If you want a practical, supportive environment with direct links to employment, Bow Valley College offers a purposeful route to skills, credentials and local industry connections.

About the Program

The Social Work Diploma at Bow Valley College is a two-year non-degree program that prepares students for a career in social work practice with a focus on multiculturalism. It helps students develop knowledge and skills to support diverse clients and promote social justice.

The curriculum covers subjects like Introduction to Social Work, Foundations of Social Work Practice, and Social Work with Groups. Students also learn about intercultural values, advocacy skills, and self-reflection. The program includes practicum preparations and social work practicums to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world practice.

Graduates can work in non-profit or private agencies, community-based organizations, schools, or government organizations. Potential job titles include social worker, community developer, or addiction services worker. They can also find jobs in senior care facilities, residential settings, or as policy analysts.

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
Duolingo
85–95
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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