Advanced Standing vs. Regular Track MSW Programs

Choosing the right path for your Master of Social Work (MSW) degree can be a crucial step in your educational journey. There are two main tracks to consider: the Advanced Standing MSW program and the Regular Track MSW program. Understanding the key differences and specific requirements for each can help you select the option that aligns with your qualifications and previous educational background. This post will walk you through the differences, eligibility, application options, and provide an overview of schools in Canada that offer these programs.

What is the Difference Between the Advanced Standing and Regular Track MSW Program?

The primary difference between Advanced Standing and Regular Track MSW programs lies in the prerequisites and program duration.

• Advanced Standing MSW Program: This track is designed for students who have already completed a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from an accredited institution. The program acknowledges the coursework and practical experience gained during your BSW degree, allowing you to skip foundational courses. As a result, this program is typically shorter, usually taking one year to complete. Depending on the school and whether you decide to do part-time or full-time schooling, the length of the program may be longer. For example, the advanced standing MSW program at the University of Calgary takes two years minimum; however, one year is standard at most Canadian universities. A field placement is also commonly required in the advanced standing route. 

• Regular Track MSW Program: This program is open to students from various academic backgrounds who do not have a BSW degree. It provides foundational social work education along with advanced courses, making it a more comprehensive program. Typically, your first year of the program will include foundation courses that are similar to the courses advanced standing students would have taken during their BSW degree. Your second year of the program involves your advanced social work courses. The Regular Track MSW program typically takes two years to complete. Similar to the advanced standing route, the length of the program will depend on the school and your part time or full-time status. An additional field placement is also typically required in the regular track, as advanced standing students will have completed practicum hours during their BSW degree. Therefore, you would complete a field placement in both your first and second year of the program. 

Can I Apply to the Advanced Standing MSW Without a BSW?

Unfortunately, you cannot apply to the Advanced Standing MSW program without a BSW degree. The Advanced Standing track is specifically tailored for students who already have a BSW degree, which allows them to advance their social work education without repeating foundational coursework. If you do not have a BSW degree, you will need to apply for the Regular Track MSW program.

Can I Apply to Both the Advanced Standing and Regular Track MSW Program to Increase My Chances of Acceptance?

Given that each MSW track is tailored towards your educational needs and is dependent on your educational history, universities do not allow students to apply to both the Advanced Standing and Regular Track MSW programs. The eligibility criteria for the two programs are distinct, and admissions committees require applicants to choose the program that aligns with their qualifications. If you have a BSW degree, you should apply to the Advanced Standing program. If you do not have a BSW degree, the Regular Track MSW is the appropriate option.

What Schools Offer Advanced Standing MSW Programs in Canada?

For those with a BSW degree, many Canadian universities offer Advanced Standing MSW programs. Here are some institutions that provide this option:

1. University of Toronto

2. University of British Columbia

3. University of Calgary

4. Carleton University

5. McGill University

6. University of Windsor 

7. University of Manitoba 

8. Wilfrid Laurier University 

9. York University 

10. Western University 

11. University of Victoria 

12. Dalhousie University 

13. Toronto Metropolitan University 

14. University of Waterloo 

15. Memorial University of Newfoundland

16. Lakehead University 

17. University of Regina 

18. St. Thomas University 

These programs typically offer a range of specializations, such as clinical social work, policy, community practice, and more. Field placement opportunities are also provided. 

What Schools Offer Regular Track MSW Programs in Canada? 

For those without a BSW degree, many Canadian universities offer Regular Track MSW programs. Here are some institutions that provide this option:

1. University of Toronto

2. University of British Columbia

3. University of Calgary

4. Carleton University 

5. University of Windsor 

6. University of Manitoba

7. Wilfrid Laurier University 

8. York University 

9. Western University 

10. University of Victoria 

11. Dalhousie University 

12. St. Thomas University 

These programs offer a comprehensive education in social work, with both foundational and advanced courses, and also provide opportunities for field placements.

To Conclude 

Choosing between the Advanced Standing and Regular Track MSW programs depends on your educational background and credentials. If you already have a BSW degree, the Advanced Standing program allows you to fast-track your education and enter the workforce sooner. If you are coming from a different academic background, the Regular Track MSW program offers a more thorough grounding in social work principles. Whichever MSW stream you enter, Canada's universities offer comprehensive programs that prepare you for a rewarding career in social work.