This section applies to applicants applying with either of the following degrees:

• a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a related field; or
• a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social work from an academic program not approved by the board.

Applicants considering making application under this section are advised to read the following section carefully with a full understanding of “substantially equivalent”.  Further, the College considers each application on its own merit and does not advise potential applicants whether a certain future course of action will result in meeting the requirements.

Applicants applying under this section must demonstrate that their university education is substantially equivalent to a social work degree from an academic program approved by the board. This is done by submitting a substantial equivalency report, which includes two parts:

Part one: Applicants must complete Application Supplement 1 – Knowledge Equivalency Portfolio. Substantial equivalency must be demonstrated through university education in each of the following subject areas:

• • Social Welfare
  • Social Policy
  • Social Work Ethics
  • Social Work Practice
  • Social Work Theory,
  • Human Behaviour and Development, and
  • Research Methods

Substantial equivalence is not met if an applicant has taken one course or completed introductory (prerequisite) courses in the above topic areas. Applications are considered in their totality. It is expected that applicants present substantive upper level courses on this form.

Part two: Applicants must complete Application Supplement 2 – Practice Experience Assessment. Submit evidence of not less than 700 hours of social work experience. For applicants with a social work degree from an academic program approved by the board, this requirement is typically met by completing two practicums as part of their bachelor’s degree in social work.

Applicants who are able to demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the foregoing will then be approved to write the ASWB licensure examination. For more information on the examination please visit www.aswb.org.

To apply for full registration without a social work degree from an academic program approved by the board, please submit a complete substantial equivalency report consisting of Application Supplement 1 and 2 in addition to a completed application for full registration.