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We are known for our relational strengths-based approach to social work education. Our small size and unique program structure enable students to grow and learn as a community, together with faculty. Students from diverse cultures, identities and life experiences can succeed in the program; every student is supported to fulfil their potential. We take an intersectional and anti-oppressive lens to working for change and seek to equip students to work for Reconciliation and social, economic and climate justice. As an applied program, we focus on the real-life application of social work theories and knowledge. Students learn critical thinking and a range of helping strategies to work with individuals, groups, communities and systems, exploring ways in which social workers can make a positive impact. Actively engaged with local communities and helping organizations, our goal is to prepare students to be successful in a broad range of social work positions and further studies.

The Bachelor of Social Work Program:

• has a mission statement that reflects our shared vision and values. The mission statement informs program decision-making.
• prepares undergraduate students to be generalist practitioners by providing an education that meets professional standards and those of the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW).
• encourages self-reflection, critical thinking, and the integration of knowledge into practice across a diverse range of entry level positions in social work.
• focusses on relationships, strengths, and student-centered active learning.
• is committed to social, economic and climate justice, seeking to challenge racism, colonialism, and other forms of structural oppression.
• ensures that students with diverse identities and experiences can see themselves reflected in and supported by the program’s curriculum and processes, from application to graduation. This includes:
  • supporting students who have lived experience of oppression and trauma
  • fostering knowledge and educational practices that honour diverse communities, including Indigenous, South Asian, and 2SLGBTQAI+ communities.
• is committed to reconciliation and decolonization. This includes:
  • demonstrating relational solidarity with Indigenous communities and respect for their land and cultures.
  • working with Indigenous partners to decolonize curriculum and pedagogy.
  • teaching students to identify and challenge colonialism and racism towards Indigenous Peoples.
• is actively engaged with community partners and responds to significant community events.
• connects students with international and cross-cultural experiential learning opportunities.
• encourages faculty and students to pursue research and scholarly activity.
• supports the continued learning and professional development of faculty and staff, who share with each other their teaching, research, and curriculum knowledge.
• offers practicum placements to meet student needs and interests, and practicum agencies consider themselves to be in a long-term relationship with the program.
• stays actively involved with alumni, who are engaged as guest speakers, practicum supervisors, and advisory committee members.
• encourages student participation in the BCCSW, BCASW, and curriculum development and pedagogy within the program.
• connects purposefully with related disciplines within the College (e.g. disability studies, youth justice, child and youth care, nursing etc.). 

Studies within the BSW are designed intentionally to reflect both the conceptual and practical aspects of social work which the students approach with genuine enthusiasm and initiative.  They have made a conscious choice to enter a challenging, but rewarding profession, with a keen interest to help people who are typically disenfranchised and lacking access to resources in society. 

Our classes are composed of students from a diversity of backgrounds and prior learning experiences which are incorporated to add richness and meaning to class discussions. The input of students brings the application of theories to life and without this the teaching experience would not be nearly as rewarding for all concerned. As a closed cohort the students develop close connections, to support one another, and to navigate the policies and expectations within the program. The group has formed a BSW Student Association which provides opportunities to advocate, support, and share ideas and suggestions. 

Many of the students have secured paid positions or enhanced their employment following graduation across a range of career paths. This listing is not exhaustive but some examples of these are the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), Corrections, Indigenous Service Agencies, Immigration, Substance Misuse Services, Mental Health, and Senior Services. Others have pursued graduate level studies in Social Work and related disciplines while some will be taking a well deserved break over the summer before deciding on next steps.  A recent success of the BSW is the selection of a student as the Valedictorian for the entire FACS graduating class in summer 2021. 

We wish all students good luck in their future pursuits with the hope that they will keep in touch with the instructors and support staff as their careers progress.