Laurentian University Programs
Available in English
Indigenous Social Work
Faculty of Education and Health
Become a registered social worker and learn how to deliver effective service to vulnerable populations with Indigenous and mainstream social work theories, perspectives, and practices.
Program Overview
Explore Indigenous worldviews and perspectives while earning a Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work degree (HBISW) leading to provincial registration and a license from the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).
Offered on campus and online, this professional program ensures you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and experience to work effectively with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Throughout the program, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of social work practice through relevant coursework pertaining to social welfare and social work applications, gain in-depth knowledge of Indigenous and mainstream theories and perspectives, and learn about Anishnaabe's traditional teachings, theories, and practices from Indigenous faculty and staff, endorsed by the School of Indigenous Relations.
You’ll also get the opportunity to put theory into practice in real social work settings through two mandatory field practicums in the third and fourth years, allowing you to acquire 700 hours of practical experience.
The concept of holism, the importance of relationship-building, connections to the land, intergenerational trauma, colonization, and decolonization are common themes throughout the program.
Once you graduate, you’ll receive a Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work and be able to apply to become a Registered Social Worker with either the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) or a College of Social Workers of any other province or territory after graduating. The program also lays a solid foundation for advanced studies, such as our Master of Social Work or the Master of Indigenous Relations programs.
The Indigenous Social Work program is accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CAWSE).
The program is recognized and accredited by the Canadian Association of Social Work Education (CASWE), and leads to a provincial social work registration and license from the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).
Unique opportunity to complete studies in class or completely online. Both streams are required to complete two field practicums totalling 700 hours.
Open to all students regardless of background or heritage.
Career Outlook
Graduates can rest assured knowing there is a multitude of career options they can explore post-graduation. Some career options include, but are not limited to:
- Child welfare
- Mental health
- Correctional services
- Community development
- Administration
- Direct service delivery
- Policy development
Many of these careers can be found in the public and private sector. Graduates enhanced their employability through a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), Legal Studies (LLB), Graduate Studies (MSW/MIR) and Post-Graduate Studies (PhD).
Looking back at my time here at Laurentian, I am so grateful for choosing this particular university. I love and value the relationships that I have been able to form with students, staff, faculty members and the opportunities I have been given to get involved in my areas of interests here at the university. The Indigenous Social Work program is especially unique in that it is one of two programs in Canada. In addition to providing mainstream theory, the program fosters Indigenous knowledge through fusing culture, tradition, and ceremony into pedagogy. The professors I have had are not only engaging and well invested in my overall academic experience, but also in my personal wellbeing. I would highly recommend this university and program to others, both Indigenous and Indigenous-minded learners, alike. Laurentian is committed to Truth and Reconciliation and this program is a testament to that.
Mathew Dueck
Program Details
Program language:
English
Delivery method:
On Campus and Online
Contact info
Dr. Keri Cheechoo, BISW CoordinatorBISW Coordinator: Dr. Keri Cheechoo via sir@laurentian.ca
sir@laurentian.ca
Please contact the email above, and our recruitment team will get back to you!
More About The Program
Interesting Facts:
-
This four-year program leads to an Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work (HBISW).
-
The program is accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE-ACFTS).
-
The program prepares students for Provincial Social Work registration and license from the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).
-
The program is offered on campus on a full-time basis.
-
The program is also offered remotely via Laurentian Online with full-time and part-time options – Fall/Winter terms only (September to April).
-
During the spring term, a select number of courses are available for registration. They include:
- ISWK-1006EL - Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare
- ISWK-1007EL - Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare and Social Work Practice
- ISWK-3605EL - Field Instruction I
- ISWK-4605EL - Field Instruction II
-
Students complete two mandatory field practicums during third and fourth year.
-
Proudly, our program is run by Indigenous faculty and staff.
About the program:
This program prepares students to work effectively in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous social work settings. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of social work practice through relevant coursework pertaining to social welfare and social work applications, gain in-depth knowledge of Indigenous and mainstream theories and perspectives, and the opportunity to put theory to practice in real social work settings. The concept of holism, the importance of relationship-building, connections to the land, intergenerational trauma, colonization, and decolonization are common themes throughout the program.
Field Practicum Hub
If you are ready to begin your field practicum, visit the Indigenous Social Work Field Practicum Hub!
Journal
Indigenous Social Work Journal
Formally called the "Native Social Work Journal”.
Published by the School of Indigenous Relations, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario
The Indigenous Social Work Journal is registered and endorsed by the Canadian Association of Learned Journals (CALJ).
Volumes 1 - 10 can be found on the LUL Zone website by clicking on the link below:
Indigenous Social Work Journal
Visit the School of Indigenous Relations for more information.
Seven Grandfather Teachings - The Seven Gifts
1. Nbwaakaawin
To cherish Knowledge is to know WISDOM.
2. Zaagidiwin
To know LOVE is to know peace.
3. Mnaadendiwin
To honour all of the Creation is to have RESPECT.
4. Aakde’win
BRAVERY is to face the foe with integrity.
5. Gwekwaadziwin
HONESTY is facing a situation is to be brave.
6. Dbadendizwin
HUMILITY is to know yourself as a sacred part of the Creation.
7. Debwewin
TRUTH is to know all of these things.
These are the teachings that were given to the Nishnaabe Nation.
“Remember that the other Nations were given teachings that are slightly different from these. But in all the teachings of different Nations, there are commonalities. This sameness refers to the basic Truth that interweaves all-natural ways of living.” (Benton-Banai, 1988)
The Medicine Wheel is an ancient symbol used to express and represent the meaning of the Four Sacred Directions which encompass all of the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers so that we can live in Harmony with all of the Creation.
In addition to the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the Canadian Association of Social Work Educators Code of Ethics and Obligations, the International Federation of Social Work Declaration of Ethical Principles of Social Work, and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers Code of Ethics apply.
FAQ
What does Indigenous Social Work mean?
Indigenous Social Work reflects the bicultural nature of the school, which means that both Indigenous and mainstream perspectives are incorporated into the curriculum (Indigenous Social Welfare and Indigenous Social Work).
May I transfer courses from other post-secondary institutions?
If you are transferring from a CAAT (College of Applied Arts and Technology) the transfer courses are contingent upon successful completion of the diploma and the student’s GPA (grade point average) and program relevancy or compatibility with the Indigenous Social Work Program.
Transfers from another university will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Transfers are determined in conjunction with the Office of Admissions. If you are transferring from another university and you have a degree, you would fall under the Second Degree Policy which would require a minimum of 11 six-credit courses or 66 ISWK credits to complete the degree and maybe PSYC 1105, SOCI 1015 if not taken if your 1st Degree.
The timeframe to complete the program is determined by whether you choose to take full-time or part-time.
Is the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program an accredited professional degree?
Yes, the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work is accredited through the Canadian Association for Social Work Educators (CASWE) as are all other Schools of Social Work.
Can I register for the program if I am non-Indigenous?
The program is open to any candidate who wants to be trained in Indigenous Social Work practice, wants a professional degree, or is currently an employee in the field of social work and wants to upgrade their credentials.
Are there job opportunities outside of First Nations Communities?
This program does not limit graduates to First Nations Communities only. Graduates obtain employment in both urban and rural settings. Employment opportunities that are designated as Aboriginal positions will be filled by an Aboriginal person.
What about distance education?
The program is completely available through distance education. The program is offered through Laurentian Online and is offered on a part-time and full-time basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree through distance education?
The program takes four years to complete on campus and online when taken on a full-time basis.
Would my previous experience in the field of social work count toward program requirements?
In recognition of the student’s relevant employment experience, there is an Advanced Standing for 3rd year Field Placement Challenge. The criteria states that the student must have a minimum of five years of paid relevant employment experience with an agency to be eligible to apply.
The course challenge is available at a cost. If a student fails the course challenge exam, they must take the 300-hour field placement.
Why do students enroll through the distance segment of the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work Program?
Some students are unable to relocate to the Sudbury campus due to employment and family responsibilities. Through Laurentian Online, the students can meet their educational and professional development needs.
Can I transfer from distance education to the on-campus program or vice versa?
It is the student’s choice to be on or off campus. If the need arises to move from the on-campus program to the distance program, it is just a matter of speaking with your academic advisor and sending the information to the registrar.
Can graduates of the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work Program register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers (OCSWSSW)?
Graduates of the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work Program are eligible to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), the college that governs social work practice.
In the future, many social service employees on or off reserve who receive provincial funding for the delivery of social services may be required to register with the college.
How do I apply to enter the Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work Program?
If you are planning full-time on campus or full-time Online for the following September, you must apply through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC).
Check the site for application deadlines. You can apply online at www.ouac.on.ca. This requires a credit card and is much faster than mail.
If you are planning part-time studies online, you may go directly to Laurentian Online to apply.
When does the program begin?
There are two intakes; Spring and Fall
Admission Requirements
Ontario High School Applicants
Program Prerequisites:
- 1 grade 12 English U/M course; 5 other grade 12 U/M courses
- A minimum overall average of 70% in the 6 best grade 12 U/M courses
- Statement of Interest
Admission to Indigenous Social Work is based on the above-mentioned admission requirements, and not solely on grade averages. In addition to meeting the academic requirements, applicants must:
- Submit a Statement of Interest by April 1st
- Complete the program acceptance form and return it to complete the application process.
Additional information for applicants who have completed Advanced Placement courses.
Additional information for applicants who have completed the International Baccalaureate.
Applicants from outside an Ontario High School
Canadian High School Applicants from outside Ontario
How To Apply
Canadian Applicants
If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you must complete your application through the Ontario Universities Application Center (OUAC).
For detailed instructions on the application process, see the How to Apply: Canadian Undergraduate Applicants page.
Apply Now as a Domestic Applicant
International Applicants
If you’re an international applicant, you must fill out the International Application Form.
For detailed instructions on the application process, see the How to Apply: International Students page.
Degree Options
BSW Indigenous Social Work (ALSO OFFERED ONLINE)
Students must follow these regulations in order to meet graduation requirements.
(120 credits)
Program of Study
First Year
ISWK 1006E Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare*
ISWK 1007E Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare and Social Work and Practice*
PSYC 1105E Introduction to Psychology
SOCI 1015E Understanding Society
12 Credit Electives in Arts
Second Year
ISWK 2006E Indigenous Social Welfare Issues*
ISWK 2007E Applied Indigenous Social Work Issues*
ISWK 2315E The Helping Relationship in Indigenous Social Work*
18 Credit Electives in Arts
Third Year
ISWK 3305E Indigenous Theories and Perspectives in Social Work Practice I*
ISWK 3555E Indigenous Social Work Research Methodologies
ISWK 3605E Field Instruction I
12 Credit Electives in Arts
Fourth Year
ISWK 4216E Programs and Issues in Indigenous Social Work Practice
ISWK 4256E Cultural Specific Helping with Indigenous Peoples
ISWK 4305E Indigenous Theories and Perspectives for Social Work Practice II*
ISWK 4507E Indigenous Social Work: Groups and Families
ISWK 4517E Management and Administration in Indigenous Social Work
ISWK 4605E Field Instruction II
And Year 4 ISWK Electives: Any 2 (3 cr) total of 6 credits
ISWK 4406E Colonizing/Decolonizing Issues of Violence in Indigenous Communities
ISWK 4416E Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking in Indigenous Social Work Practice
ISWK 4426E Mental Health Policy and Services – The Indigenous Context
ISWK 4436E Addressing Grief and Loss in Indigenous Social Work Practice
* minimum grade of B is required
Student cannot retain more than 48 first year credits in order to graduate.
Students can use the following plan of study to help them navigate the program.
Academic Regulations
To be in good academic standing, the student must:
- satisfy all conditions of admission
- achieve a minimum grade of B in ISWK 1006/1007 & 2006/2007 and ISWK 2315, 3305 & 4305
- achieve a satisfactory grade in both ISWK 3605 & 4605
- maintain a minimum grade of B in upper-year ISWK courses (including the research course)
- complete all ISWK courses, after no more than two attemps at any course
- have an overall average of at least 3.5 on all courses taken in the previous year or in the previous 30 consecutive credits, with no failures in any course attempts
A student who fails to attain academic standing may be allowed to continue in the program on probation by petition to the Committee on Academic Regulations and Awards with a positive recommendation from the program coordinator, for no more than one year (or 30 credits). A student who does not meet minimum grade requirements must include the specified course in their program in the probationary year. If, after one probationary period, the student fails to attain good academic standing, he or she must withdraw from the program.
Students required to withdraw may transfer to another program with the permission of the dean of the faculty and the chair of the department (or director of the school) of the new program. If a student is required to withdraw and not permitted to transfer to another program, he or she must also withdraw from the university.
To graduate, the student must:
- achieve a minimum grade of B in ISWK 1006/1007 & 2006/2007 and ISWK 2315, 3305 & 4305
- achieve a satisfactory grade in both ISWK 3605 & 4605
- complete all ISWK courses, after no more than two attemps at any course
- complete all courses presented for the degree with an overall GPA of 3.5 (60%); (only courses completed at Laurentian University are included in the calculation of averages)
- Students who graduate with a minimum overall GPA of 5.5 (70%) on all courses presented for the degree, receive the Honours designation.
Sample Courses
The School of Indigenous Relations has two programs: Indigenous Social Work Program (ISWK) and Master of Indigenous Relations (MIRE). The School was previously called "The School of Native Human Services" and the ISWK was previously NWLF/NSWK. The new titles and course codes do not change your degree or the courses.
Year 4 ISWK Electives: Choose any 2 (3 cr) total of 6 credits:
- ISWK 4406E - Colonizing/Decolonizing Issues of Violence in Indigenous Communities (3 credits)
- ISWK 4416E - Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking in Indigenous Social Work Practice (3 credits)
- ISWK 4426E - Mental Health Policy and Services – The Indigenous Context (3 credits)
- ISWK 4436E - Addressing Grief and Loss in Indigenous Social Work Practice (3 credits)
Introduction to Psychology
This course is a survey of contemporary psychology with reference to its historical development and emphasis on its present status and scientific methodology. It examines the biosocial bases of behaviour, development and personality, motivation, emotion, perception and learning. It involves scaling of behavioural variables, some descriptive statistics, and some elementary experiments and other practical work. (lec 2, lab/tut 1) cr 6. Prerequisite to all other PSYC courses. Students must achieve a minimum 60% grade to continue in a Psychology program.
Course Code: PSYC-1105ELDepartment: Social SciencesCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Understanding Society
A systematic introduction to understanding society, social structure, basic social institutions and their interrelations, the nature of social interactions, and the relationship between the individual and society. Particular attention is given to major issues within society such as power, social class, inequality and the processes by which human nature and instincts become socially transformed and socially structured. These social issues are examined comparatively and with particular reference to Canadian society. The student is also introduced to major theoretical issues in sociology, the methods of sociology and the rules of evidence in social science. This course is prerequisite to all upper-year courses unless specifically waived by the department. (lec 3) cr 6.
Course Code: SOCI-1015ELDepartment: Social SciencesCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare
This course addresses history and development of social welfare concepts, the methods of social work practice and the relation to social science concepts, and philosophical, human, and religious values. (lec 3) cr 3. Student may not retain credit for NWLF 1006, SWLF 1006, ISWK 1006 and BESO 1005.
Course Code: ISWK-1006ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Introduction to Indigenous Social Welfare and Social Work Practice
This course addresses the history and development of Indigenous social welfare and governance in Canadian society. The course examines various colonial policies and their impacts on Indigenous peoples. Strategies are introduced to address changes needed from colonialism to mutual interdependence. PREREQ: ISWK 1006. (lec 3) cr 3 Student may not retain credit for NWLF 1007, ISWK 1007, SWLF 1007 and BESO 1005.
Course Code: ISWK-1007ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Indigenous Social Welfare Issues
The past and present circumstances of Indigenous communities in Canada are examined. Issues specific to Indigenous people such as historical trauma, sovereignty and various cultural issues are analysed with a view towards creative estructuring of social service institutions. PREREQ: ISWK 1006 (lec 3) cr 3, ISWK 1007 (lec3) cr3
Course Code: ISWK-2006ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Applied Indigenous Social Work Issues
This course explores the issues in the profession of social work as it pertains to Indigenous Peoples, including: underlying values, beliefs, principles, work practice and delivery of social services, problem solving in social work practice, cultural competence, and more. PREREQ: ISWK 2006 (lec3) Cr3
Course Code: ISWK-2007ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
The Helping Relationship in Indigenous Social Work
This course introduces helping relationship/Indigenous Social Work to direct intervention with individuals and families. It explores the relationship between social analysis and social work intervention and the importance of viewing work with people in a social, political and economic context. It also includes sections on social and case practice. PREREQ: ISWK 1007 - Minimum grade B (70%). (lec 2, exp 1) cr 6. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 2315 and ISWK 2315.
Course Code: ISWK-2315ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Indigenous Theories and Perspectives in Social Work Practice I
This course examines theories, concepts, principles, and values relevant to social work practice with individuals, groups and communities. The course provides a base for social work practice and integrates research drawn from social sciences as well as social and clinical intervention methods. PREREQ: ISWK 2006, ISWK 2007 and ISWK 2315 (lec 3) cr 6. Students may not retain credit for both NSWK 3305 and ISWK 3305.
Course Code: ISWK-3305ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Indigenous Social Work Research Methodologies
This course critically examines respectful and responsible social research with Indigenous communities. It addresses research protocols and the decolonization of social work research methodologies through an exploration of traditional knowledge, worldviews, and epistemologies. Western-based methodological approaches are covered with a focus on the development of relevant best practices. (lec 3) cr 6. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 3555 and ISWK 3555.
Course Code: ISWK-3555ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Field Instruction I
This course consists of a planned and supervised field experience in approved settings. One placement (300 hours) is completed at an Indigenous agency and one at a Non-Indigenous agency. PREREQ: completion of all 1st and 2nd year requirements, admission to professional years, plus ISWK 2315 & ISWK 3305 (may be taken concurrently). (exp 24) cr 6. Student may not retain crdit for both NSWK 3605 and ISWK 3605.
Course Code: ISWK-3605ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Programs and Issues in Indigenous Social Work Practice
This course investigates issues and concerns relevant to the practice of social work in Indigenous communities, including community development and social change. Students explore and design various alternative programs to promote healthy holistic lifestyles. Emphasis is placed on strategies that are consistent with traditional values and cultural continuity through Indigenous empowerment. PREREQ: ISWK 2315, ISWK 3305 & ISWK 3605; (lec 3) cr 3. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 4216 and ISWK 4216.
Course Code: ISWK-4216ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Cultural Specific Helping With Indigenous People
This course addresses culture-specific skills and approaches particular to traditional helping with Indigenous peoples. Particular emphasis is placed on self-care, self-reflection, and self-awareness of the individual. Traditional Indigenous helping practices and culturally appropriate service approaches are explored. PREREQ: ISWK 2315, ISWK 3305 & ISWK 3605; (lec 3) cr 3. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 4256 and ISWK 4256. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 4256 and ISWK 4256.
Course Code: ISWK-4256ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Indigenous Theories and Perspectives for Social Work Practice II
This course analyzes theories and concepts of social work practice, and contextualizes them within a holistic foundation. Various perspectives are presented on the formulation, design and delivery of social work services for Indigenous peoples and communities. PREREQ: ISWK 2315, ISWK 3305 & ISWK 3605; (lec 3)cr 6. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 4305 and ISWK 4305.
Course Code: ISWK-4305ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Indigenous Social Work: Groups and Families
This course examines relevant social work intervention strategies and techniques for working with Indigenous groups and families. PREREQ: ISWK 2315, ISWK 3305,and ISWK 3605 or coordinator's permission. (lec 3) cr 3. Student may not retain credit for both NSWK 4507 and ISWK 4507.
Course Code: ISWK-4507ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Management and Administration in Indigenous Social Work
This course addresses the development of respectful and appropriate management and administrative processes as they relate to Indigenous organizations. Topics include human resource management, planning, administrative functions, and program evaluation. PREREQ: ISWK 2315,ISWK 3305 & ISWK 3605. (lec 3) cr 3. Students may not retain credit for both ISWK 4517 and NSWK 4517.
Course Code: ISWK-4517ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 3Course Type: Undergraduate
Field Instruction II
This course planned and supervised field experience (400 hours) is a continuation of INSW 3605 EL. The approved settings include one placement at an Indigenous agency and one at a Non-Indigenous agency. PREREQ: ISWK 3605 & ISWK 4305 (this course may be taken concurrently). Student may not retain credit for both NWSK 4605 and ISWK 4605.
Course Code: ISWK-4605ELDepartment: Indigenous RelationsCredits: 6Course Type: Undergraduate
Faculty Members
Taima Moeke-Pickering
Director, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Nicole Wemigwans
Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Adria Kurchina-Tyson
Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Sharlene Webkamigad
Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Taryn Michel
Lecturer, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Keri Cheechoo
Associate Professor, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Candace Brunette
Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations
School of Indigenous Relations
Sessional Instructors:
- Cynthia Belfitt
- Sheri Cecchetto
- Rena Daviau
- Arlene Johnson
- Taryn Michel
- Frankie Misner
- Cheryle Partridge
Ready to take the next step?
We’re here to help you get started on your journey to Laurentian.
More to Explore
Explore Laurentian University
Study at Laurentian University
Browse Services and Support
