means “the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of individual, interpersonal and societal issues through the use of social work knowledge, skills, interventions and strategies, to assist individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations and communities to achieve optimum psychological and social functioning”. For more information please review the scope of practice statement.
Only individuals registered with the British Columbia College of Social Workers or employed by an exempt employer under the Social Workers Regulation may call themselves social workers in B.C. Only registrants of the College may use the title “RSW.“ It is an offence to use the title without proper registration or exemption, and exempt employees may not use “RSW.
Registrants in the Full class may use “Social Worker,“ “Registered Social Worker,“ and “RSW.“ Registrants in the Clinical class may use “Registered Clinical Social Worker“ and “RCSW.“
Registrants are encouraged to get involved with the College:
- Board: Registrants vote for the eight social work members of the Board. Registrants who are in good standing and agree to sign the Oath of Office may stand for nomination and run for the Board.
- Committees: The College welcomes registrants to become involved in its several committees and workgroups.
- Promotion: Registrants are encouraged to urge non-registered social workers to register and to report persons using the protected title illegally to the College.
- Quality Assurance: The College is constantly improving its Standards of Practice and Bylaws to better meet the requirements of an ever-changing profession. We urge registrants to make their views on social practice issues known to the College.
Important Dates
Key dates for registration, renewal, and reinstatement throughout the calendar year.
For a complete list of documents and other resources that are of interest to Registrants, please click here.
