Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Programs

The School of Social Work at the University of Windsor offers a variety of program options, all of which lead to a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. The BSW degree is the recognized entry level Social Work degree which allows for registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

Four-Year Programs:

  • Honours Bachelor of Social Work
  • Combined Honours BSW and Women’s Studies
  • Combined Honours BSW and Disability Studies

Most students begin in one of the four-year programs. The Pre-Social Work (also known as the pre-Professional) years refer to the first two years in the program. First time admission is governed by general University regulations. Further information on how to apply can be found on the Admissions website.

In the Winter semester of year two, students who wish to remain in the BSW program, must formally apply to the Professional Years (Years 3 and 4). Applicants must have completed (or be in the process of completing) all Pre-Social Work course requirements.

Students must have a minimum average of 70% in their Social Work courses (or a 70% combined average if you are in one of the combined degree options). A 70% cumulative average is also highly recommended (typically, applications will not be reviewed if the cumulative average is less than 67%). Please note that these averages only reflect the minimum requirements and that admission averages are usually 5%-7% higher.

Two-Year Programs

  • Honours Bachelor of Social Work for University Graduates
  • Honours Bachelor of Social Work for all Ontario CYW Program Graduates

Applicants to these programs will apply directly for the Professional Years. The minimum grade requirement for University Graduates is 70% (or equivalent) either overall or in the last 20 courses. The minimum GPA for CYW Graduates is 3.0 (or equivalent - excluding placement courses).

BSW Student Manual

Applying to the Professional Years

The Application to the Professional Years can be found on the BSW Admissions webpage. This application is used by students in any of the above programs who wish to apply for the Professional Years. In order for your application to go forward for review, you must attain the minimum grade requirements for your program.

Further information can be found in the BSW Application FAQ.