Part-time Program Placements (Online)

The placement planning process for students in the online MSW program takes into consideration their need for flexible learning within their own communities. Accordingly, the placement process is self-directed and students take the lead on proposing new placements or workplace placements based on their learning interests and geographical area. In the absence of a suitable local placement within the preferred geographical area, students will need to commute to fulfill the field requirements of the MSW program.

Some considerations:

• Students must complete a minimum of 16 hours per week, across two placement days, during their field placement. The majority of placements will require this time to be completed during regular business hours. 
• Students who are working professionals must negotiate time away from their employment to ensure they will be able to complete their courses and graduation requirements within the program timelines
• Students may be required to commute if a suitable placement cannot be secured within their preferred geographical area

MyLearningSpace and the Field Orientation Webinar provide detailed information about the planning process for field placements.

Placement Timelines

Field courses are structured within specific terms, with start and end dates that do not align with the term or course dates for online-based courses. This structure considers the student’s program as a whole, and ensures that students complete required courses within the appropriate course sequence and can graduate in a timely manner. Field courses and online-based courses are offered concurrently. 

Regular Track Program

Thesis students are exempt from 100 hours towards their placement.

• Minimum 950 practice hours required at one placement setting
• Course: Field Education (SK600)
• Placement proposal due: term three of program
• Placement starts: term five of program
• Options for completing hours:
  • two days/week (16 hours/week)
  • three days/week (21 hours/week)
  • five days/week (35 hours/week)

Advanced Standing Program

Thesis students are exempt from 100 hours towards their placement.

• Minimum 500 practice hours required at one placement setting
• Course: Advanced Field Education (SK649)
• Placement proposal due: term two of program
• Placement starts: term four of program
• Options for completing hours:
  • two days/week (16 hours/week)
  • three days/week (21 hours/week)
  • five days/week (35 hours/week)