Social Work — Child Welfare Specialization Option

The Bachelor of Social Work – Child Welfare Specialization at the University of the Fraser Valley is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in child welfare and related social services. This specialized track builds on the foundational principles of social work, emphasizing child protection, family support, and advocacy for vulnerable children and youth. The curriculum combines academic coursework with practical field experience, allowing students to develop the essential skills needed to assess, intervene, and support children and families in a variety of settings. Students will explore topics such as child development, trauma-informed practice, child protection policies, family dynamics, and ethical considerations in social work. The program is structured to foster critical thinking, cultural competence, and a deep understanding of social justice issues affecting children and communities. Through classroom instruction, case studies, simulations, and supervised practicum placements, students gain hands-on experience working with diverse populations, including Indigenous communities, immigrant families, and at-risk youth. The program emphasizes collaboration with community agencies and interdisciplinary teamwork, preparing graduates to work effectively within complex social systems. Upon successful completion, students will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary for professional roles in child welfare agencies, family support organizations, and policy development. The degree also serves as a stepping stone for those interested in advanced studies or specialized certifications in child and youth services. Committed to fostering inclusive and culturally responsive practices, the program aims to make a positive impact in the lives of children and their families, promoting safety, stability, and well-being across diverse communities.

The Bachelor of Social Work with a Child Welfare Specialization at the University of the Fraser Valley is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in child and family welfare. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to effectively serve children, families, and communities. Throughout their studies, students explore a wide range of topics including child development, family dynamics, social policies, child protection, and community resources. The program emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, ethical practice, and multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to address complex social issues faced by vulnerable populations.

Students engage in a variety of learning experiences, including classroom instruction, field placements, and community projects. These practical components provide invaluable hands-on opportunities to work directly with children and families in real-world settings, fostering professional competence and confidence. The Child Welfare Specialization is tailored to deepen students’ understanding of child protection laws and procedures, intervention strategies, and the roles of social workers within child welfare agencies. Emphasis is placed on promoting children's well-being, safeguarding their rights, and supporting families through challenging circumstances.

The program is structured to facilitate a strong foundation in social work principles while allowing students to focus specifically on issues related to child welfare. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers committed to mentorship and supporting student success. Upon graduation, students are prepared to pursue careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and other settings dedicated to child and family services. The program also lays the groundwork for those interested in advanced studies in social work or related fields, fostering continuous professional development. Overall, the Bachelor of Social Work — Child Welfare Specialization at UFV aims to develop compassionate, skilled, and ethical social workers dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children and families.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Social Work – Child Welfare Specialization at the University of the Fraser Valley:

Candidates must complete a minimum of 120 undergraduate credits to graduate with the Bachelor of Social Work degree with a specialization in Child Welfare. The program combines both coursework and practical experience to prepare students for professional roles in child and family services. Entrance prerequisites typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a minimum GPA as specified by the university, and may require relevant volunteer or work experience in related fields.

The curriculum is structured into foundational courses, core social work courses, specialization electives, and practicum placements. Foundational courses include Introduction to Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, and Diversity and Social Justice, providing students with a broad understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and cultural competency. Core courses focus on social work theories, ethics, human development, and policy analysis, equipping students with essential skills for practice.

Specialization electives are tailored toward child welfare, including courses in Child and Youth Development, Family Systems, Child Protection, and Evidence-Based Practices in Child Welfare. Students are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits in these specialized courses to graduate with a Child Welfare option.

Practical experience is a vital component of the program. Students must complete a minimum of 700 hours of field practicum placements supervised by Accredited Social Work Educators (ASWE). These placements occur in various child welfare agencies, fostering direct experience with vulnerable populations, case management, and intervention strategies.

Residency requirements stipulate that students must complete at least 30 credits of coursework through the University of the Fraser Valley on-campus. The program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural safety, and anti-oppressive approaches, encouraging students to adopt reflexive practices.

To graduate, students must pass all required courses with a minimum grade of C+ (or as specified), meet practicum competencies, and complete all program assessments. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as social workers with the British Columbia College of Social Workers, and may pursue further certification or licensure as dictated by provincial policies.

These requirements ensure that graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in child welfare services, equipped with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and a commitment to ethical and culturally responsive practice.

The University of the Fraser Valley offers various financing options to support students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work – Child Welfare Specialization Option program. Tuition fees for the program are structured according to the university’s annual fee schedule, which varies based on full-time or part-time enrollment and residence status (Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student). Typically, domestic students benefit from lower tuition rates, while international students pay higher fees. In addition to tuition, students should consider costs associated with textbooks, uniforms, transportation, and other supplies, which can vary each academic year.

Financial aid programs available to students include government student loans and grants, such as Canada Student Loans, which can cover a portion of tuition and living expenses for eligible students. Provincial assistance programs, like BC Student Assistance, provide grants and bursaries that do not need to be repaid, aiming to reduce financial barriers for local students. The university also offers internal bursaries and awards based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific demographics, which students can apply for annually.

Part-time employment opportunities are available on-campus and in the surrounding community, enabling students to earn income while completing their studies. FV also partners with local organizations to facilitate cooperative education placements and internships, some of which may include stipends or financial support. Additionally, private scholarships and external funding sources, such as non-profit foundations and professional associations, offer financial assistance specific to social work students.

Students are encouraged to explore flexible financing options and plan their budgets diligently to ensure successful program completion. The university’s financial aid office provides resources and counseling to assist applicants in identifying suitable funding sources and completing application processes effectively. Furthermore, some students may qualify for special funding programs targeted at Indigenous students, minority groups, or those pursuing careers in social service fields. Overall, UFV strives to make social work education accessible through a comprehensive array of financial supports designed to address diverse student needs.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a Child Welfare Specialization offered by the University of the Fraser Valley is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in social services with a focus on child welfare. The program emphasizes foundational social work theories, ethical practice, and practical skills necessary for effective intervention and support for children and families in need. Throughout the curriculum, students engage in coursework that covers child development, family dynamics, child protection laws, and community resources. The program also incorporates hands-on learning through practicum placements, enabling students to gain real-world experience under supervision, which is essential for developing professional competence.

Students enrolled in this specialization are equipped to work in a variety of settings, including child protective services, family support organizations, foster care agencies, and community outreach programs. The program aims to foster a strong understanding of diversity, cultural competence, and the social determinants impacting children's well-being. Ethical considerations and advocacy skills are integral components, ensuring graduates are prepared to navigate complex situations with sensitivity and professionalism. The degree also prepares students for advanced education or certification in social work or related fields.

The program benefits from the university's experienced faculty, many of whom are active practitioners or researchers in child welfare and social work. The partnership with local agencies provides students with vital experience and networking opportunities, supporting their transition into the workforce. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to child and family services, contributing to community well-being and social justice.