Algoma University is pleased to announce the official launch of its Master of Social Work (MSW) program, with registration now open for Fall 2026.
The program will initially be offered at the University’s Sault Ste. Marie campus, expanding access to graduate-level social work education across Northern Ontario and addressing a clear and growing regional need for qualified professionals.
Building on Algoma University’s established Bachelor of Social Work, the MSW is designed as a community-informed, practice-based program that reflects the region’s unique needs. The curriculum focuses on anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and decolonial approaches, with a strong focus on Northern, rural, remote, and Indigenous contexts.
The launch of the new Master’s program reflects Algoma University’s commitment to making responsible, forward-looking decisions that ensure long-term sustainability while continuing to take meaningful steps to grow the student population.
“The expansion of the Social Work program supports growing demand for trained professionals in areas such as mental health, child and family services, community development, and Indigenous services, sectors that continue to face workforce shortages, particularly in Northern Ontario,” said Dr. Deb Woodman, Associate Professor and Director of the School of Social Work. “We know there is strong demand for skilled, compassionate social workers, and introducing the Master of Social Work allows us to support more students in pursuing this critical profession.”
“The unique need for educated social workers in Northern Ontario and beyond cannot be overstated. From public agencies and private businesses to hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, trained and compassionate people are needed to support our communities,” said Dr. Lea Tufford, School of Social Work Professor and Graduate Coordinator. “With the launch of the Master of Social Work program, we are incredibly excited to help usher in a new generation of highly trained individuals in the field of social work.”
Developed in close collaboration with community partners, service providers, and sector leaders, the MSW program can be completed in as little as three semesters through the practicum stream, or as little as six semesters through the thesis stream. Students can either pursue a thesis-based stream or a practicum-based stream centred on advanced professional practice.
The program also reflects Algoma University’s dedication to its Special Mission to foster cross-cultural learning between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Grounded in the theoretical and conceptual foundations of social work knowledge, ethics, and practice, the MSW critically examines the social and political construction of these concepts. This approach prepares students to engage with social injustices and address diverse forms of oppression related to race, gender, sexual orientation, citizenship, and nationhood, among other forms of social and political erasure.
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake in Sault Ste. Marie are now open. To learn more and apply to the Master of Social Work program, visit: https://algomau.ca/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-social-work-program/
Share Article
