Program structure

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Cape Breton University is an accelerated 16-month program designed to prepare students for professional social work practice. The curriculum emphasizes addressing social and systemic inequities, with a focus on rural, Indigenous, and de-industrialized communities.

Collège Boréal

Program Structure:

• Duration: 16 months of full-time study.

• Delivery Mode: Primarily on-campus instruction, with two field practicums conducted off-campus.

• Curriculum Focus:

  • Trauma-informed practices.
  • Bio-psycho-social determinants of health.
  • Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
  • Decolonization of social work practice.
  • Culturally safe care.

• Field Practicums: Two mandatory practicums provide hands-on experience in diverse social work settings, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

This comprehensive structure ensures that graduates are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address complex social issues and promote social justice in various professional settings.

Fees and Funding

Cape Breton University's Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program offers a comprehensive education with associated tuition fees and funding opportunities.

Tuition Fees:

• Canadian Students:

  • Tuition: $9,225.00 per academic year (30 credits).
  • Fees: $1,105.20.
  • Total: $10,330.20 per year.

• International Students:

  • Tuition: $9,225.00 per academic year (30 credits).
  • International Differential Fees: $10,650.00.
  • International Medical Plan A (mandatory): $1,283.00.
  • Fees: $775.20.
  • Total: $21,933.20 per year.

These estimates are based on a standard course load of 30 credits per year.

Funding Opportunities:

• Entrance Scholarships: Accepted students can apply for entrance scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 per year. Applications are reviewed based on academic performance and other criteria.

• In-Course Scholarships: Awarded after each Fall and Winter semester to students who complete a minimum of 9 credits with an overall average of at least 80%. The scholarship value is based on the number of credits registered during the semester the award is received.

• Bursaries: CBU offers bursaries to students demonstrating financial need. Applications for in-course bursaries open in the fall each year, with awards distributed during the second semester.

Prospective and current students are encouraged to consult CBU's official resources or contact the awards office at awards@cbu.ca for the most current information on scholarships and bursaries applicable to the BSW program.

Scholarship Guidance

Cape Breton University (CBU) offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries to support students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. These financial aids are designed to recognize academic excellence and assist those with financial need.

Entrance Scholarships:

• Eligibility: Students entering CBU directly from high school or through articulation agreement partners are considered based on their academic grades.

• Application Deadline: Accepted students can apply for Entrance Scholarships until March 1, 2024.

• Award Range: Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 per year, awarded after a review of applicants.

In-Course Scholarships:

• Eligibility: Awarded after each Fall and Winter semester to students who complete a minimum of 9 credits with an overall average of at least 80%.

• Award Value: The scholarship's value is based on the number of credits registered during the semester the award is received.

Bursaries:

• Eligibility: Available to students demonstrating financial need.

• Application Process: Students must complete either an Entrance Bursary Form or In-Course Bursary Form and provide income tax assessments for both the student and, in some instances, parents.

Additional Scholarships:

• Redmond Memorial Bursary
• Lou Leith Entrance Award
• Selina & Stewart Tremblett Scholarship
• Cathrene Anna Campbell Memorial Award
• Rita MacNeil Music Award
• Kevin Hillman Scholarships
• CBUAA Entrance Scholarships
• CBUFA Scholarships & Bursaries
• Connor Timmons Entrance Scholarships
• William Bill Bugg Entrance Award
• Harrison McCain Scholarship/Bursary
• Zorychta Family Scholarship
• Stephen D. Kavanagh Memorial Bursary

For a comprehensive list and detailed information on scholarships and bursaries, please visit CBU's Scholarships & Bursaries page.

Prospective and current students are encouraged to consult CBU's official resources or contact the awards office at awards@cbu.ca for the most current information on scholarships and bursaries applicable to the BSW program.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Cape Breton University (CBU), applicants must meet the following criteria:

Academic Requirements:

• Undergraduate Degree: Completion of an undergraduate degree from an accredited university.

Application Materials:

• Personal Statement: A detailed statement describing your interest in social work and motivations for pursuing the BSW program.

• Resume/CV: An up-to-date resume outlining your education, work experience, and volunteer activities.

• References: Three references are required—one academic and two professional.

Additional Considerations:

• Interview: Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process.

• Course Completion Deadline: All course requirements must be met by July 29 to be eligible for Fall (September) admission.

Application Period:

• The application window is open from October 15 to February 15 for a September start.

For detailed information on the application process and requirements, please visit the official program page.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Cape Breton University (CBU), please follow these steps:

1. Review Admission Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: Completion of an undergraduate degree from an accredited university.

• Application Materials:

  • A recent resume/CV detailing education, work, and volunteer experience.
  • Three references: one academic and two professional.
  • A personal statement reflecting on experiences and motivations for pursuing social work.

2. Application Period:

• Applications are accepted from October 15 to February 15 for a September start.

3. Submit Your Application:

• Online Application: Complete and submit the online application form through CBU's application portal.

• Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee as specified on the application portal.

• Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents, including transcripts, resume, personal statement, and reference letters.

4. Interview Process:

• Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process.

5. Await Admission Decision:

• After submission, the admissions committee will review your application.

• You will be notified of the admission decision via email.

6. Accept Offer and Confirm Enrollment:

• If admitted, follow the instructions provided to accept the offer and confirm your seat in the program.

For detailed information on the application process and requirements, please visit the official program page.

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Program Commitment