BC's Indigenous Public Post-Secondary Institute
 

Bachelor of Social Work

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Department: Bachelor of Social Work
Program Delivery Location: Merritt, Vancouver
Credential: Degree
Format: Full-Time, Part-Time
Start Dates: September

Bachelor of Social Work

The NVIT Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) emphasizes the knowledge and skills relevant to both Indigenous and mainstream individuals, families and communities. The school is committed to the principles of social justice, community healing and change. Learners will increase knowledge and skills based on an Indigenous perspective and contemporary social work practice. Elders are a valued part of our program. Through classroom experience and critical analysis, learners are encouraged to design an ethical social work framework valuing diversity, equality, respect and the dignity and worth of all persons.


The NVIT BSW degree program is the only Indigenous-centred BSW program in British Columbia. Graduates of the program will have greater knowledge, skills and abilities to practice social work with diverse populations.


The BSW program is fully accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education.


Admission Requirements


The BSW program admits approximately 50 learners into the two year program. Learners are admitted to the Bachelor Social Work program at year three and must have 60 credits of transferable coursework to enter the program. Learners with 54-57 credits may be considered. To apply, complete the NVIT BSW Admissions package.
Core Courses

Third Year
Students in their third year of study normally take SOCW 301, 304, 306, 311, 320, 353, and Social Work or Arts electives chosen in consultation with the Program Coordinator.

Summer Semester
The course offerings for BSW summer session vary from year to year. Please ensure you check with the Program Coordinator for current summer offerings.

Fourth Year
Students in fourth year typically take SOCW 402,404,486 and elective courses as required.

 

  • SOCW-301 - Introduction to Social Work Research
  • SOCW-304 - Social Work Field Practice
  • SOCW-306 - Theory and Ideology of Social Work
  • SOCW-311 - Indigenous Perspectives on Social Policy
  • SOCW-320 - Trauma Informed Social Work Theory & Practice
  • SOCW-353 - Social Work Practice With Individuals
  • SOCW-402 - Social Work Field Practice
  • SOCW-404 - Ethical Practice in Aboriginal Communities
  • SOCW-486 - Aboriginal Social Work Practice
    • Elective Courses
  • SOCW-358 - Legal Skills for Social Workers
  • SOCW-359 - Advanced Individual Social Work Practice
  • SOCW-375 - Cultural Immersion
  • SOCW-376 - Child Welfare Practice
  • SOCW-420 - Family Violence & Social Work Practice
  • SOCW-430 - Sexual Diversity & Social Work Practice
  • SOCW-440 - Social Work and Mental Health
  • SOCW-450 - Leadership Practice in Social Service
  • SOCW-452 - Education for Social Change
  • SOCW-455 - Social Work Practice With Communities
  • SOCW-460 - Special Topics in Social Work &
  • SOCW-461 - Social Work With Groups
  • SOCW-465 - Older People, Aging and Society
  • SOCW-466 - Addictions
  • SOCW-477 - Family Practice
  • SOCW-478 - Introduction to Disability Studies
  • SOCW-490 - Directed Studies

    • Course Listing for this program
    SOCW-301 - Credits: 3.000
    Introduction to Social Work Research
    This course introduces students to research as 'a way of thinking' and considers the relationship of research to social work practice. It challenges students to examine their own approach to knowing, to incorporate research skills into practice, and to think critically about research findings in relation to social work practice. Students will be introduced to the concepts, methods, and processes of social work research and will begin to develop skills in conducting research and critically assessing research processes and outcomes. We will look at the many purposes for which research is undertaken and applied in social work and discuss methodologies that are commonly used in social work research. The course will examine what social work research is, why and how we conduct research, how we understand and interpret research as professional consumers, and understand the parallels between the research process and planned change. It also considers the ways in which research can be an instrument of power in the lives of oppressed peoples, and views competence in the language and process of research as a necessary skill for social workers interested in social justice. As such, the subjectivity of the researcher and the political and ethical context of research will be of paramount concern in this course. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: or third year standing or permission of department head. / SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B
    SOCW-304 - Credits: 6.000
    Social Work Field Practice
    In the third year field placement, students are assigned a wide range of responsibilities at the individual, group and/or community level. The purpose of the practicum is the application of theory and knowledge to social work practice and the concurrent development of practice skills. Specific objectives are outlined in the field manual and are established on a contractual basis with students, faculty and agency. A wide variety of agencies are available. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 306 / SOCW 353 / SOCW 306 and SOCW 353 with a minimum C grade and 3rd year standing
    SOCW-306 - Credits: 3.000
    Theory and Ideology of Social Work
    This course introduces students to social work theory and ideology, and examines the links between social values, theory and practice in social work. Various social work practice theories are introduced to build a foundation for critical social work practice. The social, political and economic contexts of social work and social welfare are addressed. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of department head
    SOCW-311 - Credits: 3.000
    Indigenous Perspectives on Social Policy
    Students will explore and critically analyze socio-historical Canadian policies and legislation and the implications for Indigenous peoples today. Students will examine policy development with an emphasis on who the policy makers are and whom the policies serve. Students will analyze and critique how and if existing policies could be effective for Aboriginal people. This course explores the socio-historical, economic, ideological & institutional contexts for the development of decolonizing social policies in Canada. The policy-making process as well as the role of social policy in processes of inclusion, exclusion, marginalization, and oppression, will be discussed. This course utilizes a gendered, Indigenous, decolonizing lens. It explores strategies for reconciliation within the social work profession and Canadian society. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / or third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-320 - Credits: 3.000
    Trauma Informed Social Work Theory & Practice
    This course is designed to introduce students to the knowledge of trauma informed theory and practice in social work. Students will explore Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal theories of trauma and attachment research within a human development context. Trauma will be examined from a holistic approach using the following four aspects: child, family, community and professional. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the consequences of childhood maltreatment among diverse populations (race, culture, class, gender, ability). Through assigned readings, lecture, class discussion, video and other exercises, students will explore a variety of approaches. More Details on this course
    SOCW-353 - Credits: 3.000
    Social Work Practice With Individuals
    The course will demand self-reflection, active experimentation, and the integration of theory with practice. Due to the nature of the course content, the high level of individual and group interaction and the emphasis on self-development, participation and attendance at all classes is required. Students are expected to be self-directed in their learning. This will involve summarizing assigned readings, challenging one's self in discussions, role plays and exercises, providing supportive/developmental feedback to peers and the instructor during the course. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing.
    SOCW-358 - Credits: 3.000
    Legal Skills for Social Workers
    This course introduces theory and practice approaches to mediation, alternative dispute resolution and advocacy. A moot court experience develops skills in evidence-giving, investigation and report writing. Students will participate in role play and practice simulations. More Details on this course
    SOCW-359 - Credits: 3.000
    Advanced Individual Social Work Practice
    This course builds on established interview skills and practice with individuals. It introduces students to work with diverse social and cultural groups including Aboriginal, Asian, and francophone peoples within British Columbia. Communication with Aboriginal people is a major emphasis in this course. Students develop a culturally sensitive approach in problem-solving situations while working with individuals. Theories of intervention are introduced, practiced and critiqued by students. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200B / SOCW 200A / SOCW 353 / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-375 - Credits: 3.000
    Cultural Immersion
    This course provides an opportunity to experience First Nations culture and traditions from a holistic perspective. Students are immersed in cultural activities, ceremonies and teachings to deepen knowledge and appreciation of First Nations culture. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-376 - Credits: 3.000
    Child Welfare Practice
    The course introduces anti-oppression, Aboriginal and feminist analysis of practices within the family and child welfare systems. The course will discuss current British Columbia and other systems of practice that include feminist and Aboriginal models of child and family practice. Family and child welfare is deeply entrenched in the legal system therefore an introductory critique of the legal system is analyzed. Discussions will connect the legal system and practice with diverse populations and the importance of personal and professional values and ethics within a climate of constant change. A major emphasis is placed on First Nations/Aboriginal child welfare because of the high rate of Aboriginal children in care. Students will demonstrate learning by using a variety of learning methods such as moot courts, interview role plays, conflict resolutions scenarios and presentations. Students will have the opportunity to apply social work ethics and values to the role of child protection and increase their awareness of those receiving services with an emphasis on cross-cultural practice perspectives. More Details on this course
    SOCW-402 - Credits: 9.000
    Social Work Field Practice
    The intent of this course is to refine intervention skills at the individual, family, group and community level. Specific objectives will be established on a contract basis between students, faculty and the agency. A wide variety of agencies are available. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW-353 / SOCW-404 / SOCW-306 / and 150 completed hours.
    Corequisites: fourth year standing.
    SOCW-404 - Credits: 3.000
    Ethical Practice in Aboriginal Communities
    This course focuses specifically on ethical considerations and decision making when working in Aboriginal communities. The course will examine codes of ethics in the profession, Aboriginal codes of ethics and mainstream theoretical aspects of ethical practices. As well, students are provided with the opportunity to engage in exploration of integrated, personal, ethical practices that are culturally based through validation and revitalization of Aboriginal codes of ethics. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 306 / SOCW 200B / SOCW 200A / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-420 - Credits: 3.000
    Family Violence & Social Work Practice
    This course focuses on understanding the nature of violence in adult intimate relationships. Theories of family violence, used by social workers, are examined to provide a framework for recognizing, assessing and intervening. This course emphasizes a social work practice approach that is community-based, culturally sensitive, feminist, and anti-oppressive. Family violence is understood in this course to mean violence in adult intimate relationships, including same-sex couples. Other topics include family violence in Aboriginal communities, children who have witnessed violence, and dating violence. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the instructor.
    SOCW-430 - Credits: 3.000
    Sexual Diversity & Social Work Practice
    This course introduces students to interpersonal and systemic issues that sexually diverse and gender varied people encounter on a daily basis. Policies, legislation, and social contexts are analyzed with a view to understanding the impact of intersecting oppressions and privileges on sexual and/or gender minorities. We will discuss social work strategies to support and advocate for those who do not conform to social gender contructs/norms, plus their families and communities. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head / SOCW 200A
    SOCW-440 - Credits: 3.000
    Social Work and Mental Health
    This course provides an introduction to the practice of social work in the field of mental health. Students will critically examine historical and contemporary theoretical perspectives on mental illness, Canadian mental health law and policy, cultural and diversity aspects, classification and treatment, ethical issues and an exploration of selected mental health issues. This course is intended to provide introductory foundational knowledge in the field of mental health, rather than advanced knowledge and skills required for mental health practice. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of department head
    SOCW-450 - Credits: 3.000
    Leadership Practice in Social Service
    This course provides students with a critical introduction to leadership in social service organizations. It reviews organizational theory and its application to government and non-profit oprganizations. Leadership in a diverse workplace, program development, budgeting, staff appraisal, supervision and work with voluntary boards are also discussed. Through experiential learning methods, the course introduces students to key organizational skills necessary for effective leadership in organizations. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the instructor.
    SOCW-452 - Credits: 3.000
    Education for Social Change
    This course focuses on the use of education as a strategy for individual and social change by introducing students to the concept of education as the practice of freedom and as a process of social transformation through concientization. Principles and practices of adult education will be examined for their application in social work as empowerment and change. Students will present workshops, plays, or web programs to achieve the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge for planning and delivering educational programs. This will be explored using feminist, Aboriginal and anti oppression perspectives. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-455 - Credits: 3.000
    Social Work Practice With Communities
    This course explores the construction of community and analyzes marginalization, exclusion and oppression in communities. It outlines social work roles as well as strategies for change in diverse communities. The history, philosophy, models and methods of social work practice with communities are described. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head / SOCW 200A
    SOCW-460 - Credits: 3.000
    Special Topics in Social Work &
    This is a variable content course that deals with special issues in social welfare and approaches to social work practice. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-461 - Credits: 3.000
    Social Work With Groups
    Groups may be the most widely used modality in social work practice. They provide a vehicle for treatment, task accomplishment, self-help, mutual aid, community intervention, peer supervision and professional association. The principal objective of this course is to introduce students to group work for the generalist social worker. Group work practice will be examined from a variety of theoretical and practice orientations. The course will provide an opportunity to understand and put into practice knowledge and skills related to group processes. The course will also explore how the needs of individuals are addressed in groups. Students will participate in structured group experiences. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 306 / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the instructor
    SOCW-465 - Credits: 3.000
    Older People, Aging and Society
    This course provides an introduction to working with and on behalf of older people from an anti-oppression and inter-disciplinary perspective. We will examine age in relation to other identity factors, such as 'race', ethnicity, class, gender, (dis)ability, faith, sexual orientation, and marital status. The course is designed to expose students to issues affecting older adults both locally and globally; to critically examine beliefs and attitudes related to aging and older people- our own and those of others; and to develop a framework for anti-oppression practicing with older people. We will discuss policy, practice and research issues within the field of aging with a focus on structural inequalities in later life and the voices of older people. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / SOCW 306 / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-466 - Credits: 3.000
    Addictions
    This course is designed to give students an introduction to substance/misuse/abuse and compulsive and addictive behaviors. This will broaden their perspective of addiction to further strengthen their work with diverse populations with an emphasis on First Nations communities. It offers: - An opportunity to explore various models of addiction theories and frameworks; - Examples and case studies of diverse populations and the impact of substance abuse or other addictive behaviors; and - A critical perspective on the legal and government policy related to substances. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head
    SOCW-477 - Credits: 3.000
    Family Practice
    This course introduces students to social work practice with contemporary families with diverse structure and backgrounds utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives including anti-oppression, feminist and Aboriginal. Students develop an understanding of families within a social, cultural, economic, and political context and examine ethical and practice issues commonly encountered in social work practice with families. Students develop skills and integrate theory and practice through class discussion, assignments, and experiential exercises. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the instructor
    SOCW-478 - Credits: 3.000
    Introduction to Disability Studies
    This course involves students in an examination of perspectives on disability, race, gender and class, as well as critical analysis of current theories, policies and practice. Students are introduced to issues affecting people with disabilities within a framework of human rights, citizenship and inclusion. The course also engages students in an examination of their own beliefs and attitudes about disability and emphasizes practice knowledge required for anti-ableist practice. Significant events and the contributions of pioneers in the disability rights movement are explored. The roles and perspectives of people with disabilities, family members and professionals are considered in relation to social work values, theory, policy and practice. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the Instructor
    SOCW-486 - Credits: 3.000
    Aboriginal Social Work Practice
    This course will critically examine the most relevant Indigenous and mainstream assessments and approaches to working with Indigenous peoples. Students will develop an understanding of social work interventions that will help to address the prevalent socio-economic and political issues that Indigenous peoples experience within Canadian society. Students will critically analyze and assess Indigenous individual, family and community case studies and apply social work approaches that demonstrate culturally safe practices. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B
    SOCW-490 - Credits: 3.000
    Directed Studies
    This independent study course is designed to allow students the opportunity to investigate a specific issue within a field or topic in social work such as gerontology, mental health, sexual assault or corrections. Consultation with, and permission of, a faculty member and the Dean is required. More Details on this course
    Prerequisites: SOCW 200A / SOCW 200B / third year standing or permission of the department head

    Current Course Offerings
    01 = Merritt Campus
    V1 = Burnaby Campus

    Spring 2024 (January - April)


  • SOCW-301-V1
  • SOCW-304-V1
  • SOCW-402-V1
  • SOCW-420-V1
  • SOCW-440-V1
  • SOCW-452-V1
  • SOCW-455-V1

    • Fall 2024 (September - December)


  • SOCW-306-V1
  • SOCW-311-V1
  • SOCW-320-V1
  • SOCW-353-V1
  • SOCW-404-V1
  • SOCW-466-V1
  • SOCW-486-V1

    • Spring 2025 (January - April)


  • SOCW-301-V1
  • SOCW-304-V1
  • SOCW-402-V1
  • SOCW-420-V1
  • SOCW-440-V1
    •  
    For information on transferability, please see the BC Council on Admissions and Transferability

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