Social Work and Disability Studies Bachelor
Main Campus, Canada
Bachelor of Social Work and Disability Studies (Honours)
University of Windsor
Social Work and Disability Studies
Program Overview: Social Work and Disability Studies at UWindsor
The Bachelor of Social Work and Disability Studies (Honours) at the University of Windsor is the only joint Social Work and Disability Studies program in North America that allows graduates to earn a BSW designation. This combined program provides rigorous training in both social work principles and disability studies, with a strong focus on social justice and the social model of disability.
The curriculum is grounded in the lived experiences of people with disabilities, ensuring that the knowledge you gain is rooted in real-world practice. You will benefit from extensive hands-on experiential learning opportunities, including a fourth-year practicum that provides 700 hours of fieldwork in local schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.
Offered through the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, this program prepares you for a meaningful career advocating for accessibility and equity. Graduates are equipped with the skills and professional credentials needed to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Key Program Highlights
- The only joint Social Work and Disability Studies program in North America offering a BSW credential
- 700 hours of hands-on practicum experience in schools, hospitals, and non-profits during the fourth year
- Curriculum grounded in the social model of disability and real-world lived experiences
- Active student community through the Social Work Student Association with workshops, galas, and peer mentorship
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Social Work and Disability Studies program blends foundational social work courses with specialized disability studies modules. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing you to address the diverse needs of individuals and communities through a social justice lens.
Historical Approaches to People with Disabilities
Core CourseExamines the historical treatment and societal perceptions of people with disabilities from ancient times to the present. Students critically analyze how historical contexts have shaped current disability policies and advocacy movements.
Theories of Disability and the Social Model
Core CourseExplores the theoretical frameworks underpinning disability studies, with emphasis on the social model of disability. Students learn to challenge medical and deficit-based approaches and advocate for inclusive social structures.
Social Work and Diversity
Core CourseFocuses on the intersections of diversity, equity, and social work practice. Students develop culturally responsive approaches to working with marginalized populations and communities.
Community Approaches, Advocacy and Empowerment
Core CourseProvides training in community-based advocacy strategies and empowerment frameworks. Students learn to mobilize resources and build coalitions to support individuals with disabilities and their families.
Social Justice in Action
Core CourseIntegrates social justice theory with practical application, enabling students to design and implement initiatives that promote equity and accessibility. Emphasis is placed on critical reflection and action-oriented learning.
Field Education (Practicum)
Core CourseA comprehensive fourth-year practicum providing 700 hours of supervised professional experience in community agencies, schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations. Students apply classroom learning to real-world social work practice.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Social Work and Disability Studies program at the University of Windsor is competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievement, prerequisite coursework, and English language proficiency. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or international equivalent required
- Required SubjectGrade 12 English (ENG4U or equivalent) with a minimum grade of 70%
- Minimum AverageMinimum overall average of 70% across six Grade 12 academic courses
- Mean AverageCompetitive mean average of approximately 80% for admitted students
- International CredentialsApplicants educated outside Canada must submit evidence of equivalent educational qualifications
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicMinimum overall band score of 6.5
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 83 with a writing score of at least 20
- Duolingo English TestMinimum score of 115 for undergraduate applicants
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Windsor offers several scholarship and bursary opportunities to help international students fund their education. International students are automatically considered for select entrance scholarships based on their academic performance. Contact Uni4Edu for assistance in identifying and applying for funding opportunities.
UWindsor Open Entrance Scholarship
CAD 1,000 to CAD 16,000Automatically awarded to incoming international students based on final Grade 12 academic performance. Award levels include President's Level (CAD 2,000 per term), Dean's Level (CAD 1,250 per term), and Blue and Gold Level (one-time CAD 1,000).
International Student Renewable Scholarship of Excellence
CAD 5,000 per year (renewable for 4 years)Available to international students with an entering average of at least 80%. The scholarship is renewable each year provided the student maintains a minimum cumulative average of 75%.
International Student Support Bursary
Up to CAD 1,000 per academic yearA needs-based bursary designed to support international students experiencing financial difficulty during their studies. Students may also access the Emergency Relief Fund administered by the International Student Centre.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects and Opportunities
Graduates of the Social Work and Disability Studies program are well-prepared for careers across a wide range of social service sectors. The BSW designation qualifies you to register as a professional social worker in Ontario, opening doors to diverse employment opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, healthcare, and education.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Windsor is a respected Canadian institution with a growing global reputation, consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide. The university has achieved notable positions in several major international ranking systems, reflecting its commitment to research excellence, teaching quality, and student success.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
| Engineering | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
| Business and Economics | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
| Computer Science | THE Subject Rankings | #301-400 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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