Job requirements Registered Social Worker in Canada

Find out what you typically need to work as a registered social worker in Canada. These requirements are applicable to all Social workers (NOC 41300).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

  • A bachelor's degree in social work is required in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
  • In Alberta, a bachelor's degree or diploma in social work is required.
  • Supervised practical experience is usually required.
  • Successful completion of provincial written and oral examinations may be required.
  • Registration with a provincial governing body is mandatory to practise as a social worker in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.
  • Use of the titles Social Worker and Registered Social Worker is regulated in all provinces.
  • Membership in a provincial association of social workers is usually required.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

You might need to get a certification from a regulatory authority before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification process.

Alberta

Job title Social Workers
Regulated

British Columbia

Job title Social Worker
Regulated

Manitoba

Job title Social Worker
Regulated
Job title School Clinician - Social Worker

New Brunswick

Job title Social Worker

Newfoundland and Labrador

Job title Social Worker

Nova Scotia

Job title Social Worker
Regulated

Ontario

Job title Social Worker
Job title Social Service Worker

Prince Edward Island

Job title Social Worker

Saskatchewan

Job title Social Worker
Regulated

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

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