Master in Social Work (MSW)

Applications close 15 November.

A 450-hour field education placement sits at the heart of the Master of Social Work, giving students practical experience in settings such as health services, child welfare or community organisations. The programme builds on a critical, anti-oppressive, social-justice perspective and offers both course-based and thesis pathways, allowing you to develop research skills alongside professional practice.

The programme runs either as a one-year fast-track for graduates holding a BSW, or as a two-year route for those entering from other disciplines. Study can be full-time or part-time and is delivered either in-person or online, giving flexibility to match personal and career commitments.

• CASWE accredited curriculum
• 450-hour field placement (one placement for the one-year route, two for the two-year route)
• Option to choose between a thesis or a purely course-based route
• Part-time and online delivery formats

Dalhousie University, situated in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a prominent Canadian university with a history dating back to 1818. The institution enrolls around 20,000 students, including a significant international population, and is known for combining rigorous academics with a welcoming, community-minded culture. Halifax’s coastal setting provides access to a vibrant city life and natural environments that enhance student experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

Dalhousie offers a wide spectrum of programs across arts, sciences, health sciences, engineering, law, and management, with approximately 179 degree options and plentiful opportunities for experiential learning. The university emphasizes research, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students to apply learning through internships, co‑ops, and research projects. Faculty mentorship and hands-on training prepare graduates for professional success and civic contribution.

Campus resources include student services for academic support, wellness, and international student advising, making it easier to transition to life in Canada. Active student organizations, cultural events, and partnerships with local industries provide networking and leadership opportunities. For international applicants seeking a research-informed education in an inclusive Atlantic Canadian city, Dalhousie balances academic depth with practical pathways to career development.