Study of Registration Practices of the
ONTARIO COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS AND SOCIAL SERVICE WORKERS, 2007
- 1. INTRODUCTION
- 2. BACKGROUND OF THE REGULATORY BODY
- 3. REGISTRATION PRACTICES
- a. Registration Requirements and Application Process
- b. Documentation Required from Internationally Trained Individuals
- c. Credential Assessment (Third Party and/or Internal)
- d. Academic/Program Requirements
- e. Work Experience Requirements
- f. Examinations
- g. Language Requirements
- h. Fees
- i. Third Parties
- j. Typical Length of the Registration Process
- k. Accredited Programs
- l. Internal Review/Appeal Process
- 4. BRIDGING PROGRAMS
- 5. MUTUAL RECOGNITION AGREEMENTS
- 6. APPLICANTS’ INTERACTIONS WITH REGULATORY BODY
- 7. CHANGES SINCE THE 2005 SURVEY
- 8. REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND STATISTICS
- 9. SOURCES
ISBN 978-1-4249-6492-5 [HTML English version]
1. INTRODUCTION
The Office of the Fairness Commissioner (OFC) undertook a study of registration practices of Ontario's regulated professions during the fall and winter of 2007–2008. The purpose of the study was to understand each regulated profession's 2007 registration practices, and to establish baseline data and information to enable the OFC to measure progress as it fulfills its mandate under the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, 2006.
This report reflects the registration practices of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers as of December 31, 2007. Information in this report was gathered from
face-to-face meetings with registration staff of the regulatory body
additional documentation provided by the regulatory body
relevant websites
career maps for the profession posted on the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration's website (where applicable).
The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers also provided registration information and statistics for 2005, 2006 and 2007 through a standard spreadsheet designed by the OFC.
An analysis and summary of the findings for all of the regulated professions are contained in the OFC's Ontario’s Regulated Professions: Report of the 2007 Study of Registration Practices.
2. BACKGROUND OF THE REGULATORY BODY
a. Legislation
The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) operates in accordance with the Social Work and Social Service Work Act, 1998, the regulations made under the act and the by-laws approved by Council of the college.
b. Protected Titles
Individuals must be registered with the college to use the titles “social worker,” registered social worker,” “social service worker” or “registered social service worker.” The Social Work and Social Service Work Act also prohibits individuals from holding out explicitly or by implication that they are social workers or social service workers if they are not members of the college.
c. Definition of the Profession
Social work is a profession concerned with helping individuals, families, groups and communities to enhance their individual and collective well-being. Its goal is to help people resolve problems by developing their skills and their ability to use their own resources and those of the community. Social work is concerned with individual and personal problems and with broader social issues such as poverty, unemployment, domestic violence, human rights and social justice.
According to the college's Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, the scope of practice of the profession of social work encompasses the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of individual, interpersonal and societal problems through the use of social work knowledge, skills, interventions and strategies, to assist individuals, dyads, families, groups, organizations and communities to achieve optimum psychosocial and social functioning and includes the following:
provision of assessment, diagnostic, treatment and evaluation services within a relationship between a social worker and a client
development, promotion, management, administration, delivery and evaluation of human service programs, including those done in collaboration with other professionals
provision of professional supervision to a social worker, social work student or other supervisee
provision of consultation services to other social workers or professionals in relation to the activities described in paragraph (i) above
development, promotion, implementation and evaluation of social policies aimed at improving social conditions and equality
conduct of research or provision of education regarding the practice of social work, as defined in paragraphs (i) to (v) above and (vii) below
any other activities recognized by the college.
Social service workers administer and implement a variety of social assistance programs and community services, and assist clients to deal with personal and social problems. They assess the needs and resources of individuals, families, groups and communities and assist them to achieve their goals and meet their needs. Social service work is also concerned with social policy and with cultural and economic systems as they impact clients.
According to the college's Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, the scope of practice of the profession of social service work means the assessment, treatment and evaluation of individual, interpersonal and societal problems through the use of social service work knowledge, skills, interventions and strategies, to assist individuals, dyads, families, groups, organizations and communities to achieve optimum social functioning. It also includes the following:
provision of assessment, treatment and evaluation services within a relationship between a social service worker and a client
development, promotion, management, administration, delivery and evaluation of human service programs, including those done in collaboration with other professionals
provision of professional supervision to a social service worker, social service work student or other supervisee
provision of consultation services to other social service workers or professionals engaged in the activities described in paragraph (i) above
development, promotion, implementation and evaluation of social policies aimed at improving social conditions and equality
conduct of research or provision of education regarding the practice of social service work, as defined in paragraphs (i) to (v) above and (vii) below
any other activities recognized by the college.
d. Labour Market/Economic Trends
Social workers are employed in family service agencies, children’s aid societies, hospitals, school boards, correctional institutions, welfare administration agencies, child welfare agencies, community-based health care agencies, employee assistance programs, addiction services and government departments. Some are self-employed in private practice.
Employment opportunities for social workers are expected to remain good through 2009, particularly for those with advanced degrees in social work and experience in fields such as geriatrics, alcohol and substance abuse, health and mental health, and child welfare. Palliative care is also a growing area, as is counselling for those social workers with an academic specialization in this area. Progression to other related careers in social service, such as family and marriage counsellors and probation and parole officers, is possible with additional training and/or experience.
Social service workers are employed in federal, provincial and municipal governments, health and social service agencies, including group homes and institutional health and social service firms. Employment for this occupation is expected to increase more rapidly than the average for all occupations through 2009. The conditions can be challenging. Social service workers usually work in clinical, office or community settings, such as community mental health and addictions clinics. Their clients include addicts, troubled individuals or families, abused women and the poor.
Most social workers and social service workers are employed in the health or social service sectors, and these are usually dependent on government funding. Only a small percentage work in independent practice. Both professions would be negatively affected by an economic downturn or government cutbacks; however, unemployment is currently not a major concern. There may be a shortage of professionals in the future, as the college’s membership is aging, and a high percentage are expected to retire over the next 20 years.
e. New Developments Within the Profession
The most significant change resulting from the changes brought about by the Health System Improvements Act, 2007 (Bill 171)is Schedule R, which amends the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 by adding a new controlled act of psychotherapy and authorizing members of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers to perform the controlled act in compliance with the Social Work and Social Service Work Act, 1998, its regulations and by-laws.
f. Staffing
The OCSWSSW employs 24 regular full-time staff, 2.5 contract/project staff, and three or four temporary staff during the annual membership renewal. Of the total staff group, six regular staff are involved in the registration process, along with the 2.5 contract/project staff. Two registration staff support the Registration Appeals Committee.
3. REGISTRATION PRACTICES
a. Registration Requirements and Application Process
i. Requirements for Social Workers
The academic requirements for registration as a social worker are:
a degree in social work from a Canadian social work program accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work (now known as the Canadian Association for Social Work Education, or CASWE)
or
a degree in social work from a social work program offered outside Canada and assessed by the Canadian Association of Social Workers to be equivalent to at least a bachelor of social work obtained from a social work program accredited by the CASWE
or
a degree in social work from a social work program in the United States that has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
or
a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience that the Registrar determines is substantially equivalent to the qualifications required for a degree in social work from a social work program accredited by the CASWE.
The college’s requirements for professional conduct for social workers are:
The applicant's past and present conduct must afford reasonable grounds for the belief that the applicant is mentally competent to practise social work; will practise social work with decency, integrity and honesty and in accordance with the law, including but not limited to the act, the regulations and the by-laws; and has sufficient knowledge, skill and judgment to practise social work.
The applicant must disclose any finding or proceeding of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity.
The applicant must disclose, at the time the application is made and at the time the certificate of registration is issued, any finding of guilt in relation to a criminal offence, an offence under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or the Food and Drugs Act or any other offence relevant to the applicant’s suitability to practise social work.
Applicants must also:
have Canadian citizenship, permanent residency or work authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to engage in the practice of social work
have reasonable written and oral English or French language fluency
pay the application fee and the registration fee.
ii. Requirements for Social Service Workers
The academic requirements for registration as a social service worker are:
a diploma in social service work from a social service work program offered in Ontario at a college of applied arts and technology (CAAT)
or
a diploma from a program offered in Ontario at a CAAT that is equivalent to a social service work program and approved by Council as equivalent to a social service work program offered in Ontario at a CAAT
or
a diploma from a social service work program or an equivalent program offered outside Ontario and approved by Council as equivalent to a social service work program offered in Ontario at a CAAT
or
a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience that the Registrar determines is substantially equivalent to the qualifications required for a diploma in social service work from a social service work program offered in Ontario at a CAAT.
The college’s requirements for professional conduct for social service workers are:
The applicant's past and present conduct must afford reasonable grounds for the belief that the applicant is mentally competent to practise social service work; will practise social service work with decency, integrity and honesty and in accordance with the law, including but not limited to the act, the regulations and the by-laws; and has sufficient knowledge, skill and judgment to practise social service work.
The applicant must disclose any finding or proceeding of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity.
The applicant must disclose, at the time the application is made and at the time the certificate of registration is issued, any finding of guilt in relation to a criminal offence, an offence under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or the Food and Drugs Act or any other offence relevant to the applicant’s suitability to practise social service work.
Applicants must also:
have Canadian citizenship, permanent residency or work authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to engage in the practice of social service work
have reasonable written and oral English or French language fluency
pay the application fee and the registration fee.
The steps in the registration process are:
The applicant completes the application form, including disclosing any findings or proceedings related to professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity. Applicants who answer yes to any such questions must submit further details along with the application form.
The applicant pays the non-refundable application fee and the registration fee.
The applicant arranges for required documents to be submitted to the college.
The applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada or be authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to practise social work or social service work in Ontario.
The college reviews the documents and requests additional information if required.
The Registrar decides either to issue a Certificate of Registration or a Certificate of Registration with terms, conditions or limitations, or to refuse to issue a Certificate of Registration.
Applicants who receive a certificate of registration with terms, conditions or limitations or who are refused a certificate of registration are notified that they can request a review by the Registration Appeals Committee.
b. Documentation Required from Internationally Trained Individuals
In addition to the requirements specified in section 3.a, internationally trained social workers and social service workers must provide:
an evaluation by the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) sent directly to the college and confirming that the applicant’s academic qualifications in social work are equivalent to at least a BSW degree obtained from a social work program accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education. The CASW will also provide the college with a copy of the applicant’s academic transcript(s).
translations of documents, into English or French, if required.
Applicants may have to demonstrate their proficiency in English or French by achieving certain language test scores.
ii. Options for Applicants with Unavailable/Destroyed Documents
The OCSWSSW does not have a policy regarding applicants without access to documents.
The CASW evaluates the academic credentials of internationally trained/educated social work applicants, and is typically the organization to which applicants submit their academic credentials.
c. Credential Assessment (Third Party and/or Internal)
Two policies regarding social work academic credentials obtained outside Canada have been approved by Council of the college:
The CASW evaluates academic credentials of internationally trained/educated social work applicants; however, applicants who completed a social work program in the United States that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education do not have to have their credentials evaluated by CASW.
The CASW does not evaluate academic credentials for social service workers.
The credentials of social service work applicants are reviewed by the college to determine whether the program is equivalent to a diploma in social service work from a college of applied arts and technology in Ontario.
Applicants need the following documents (originals) for the CASW’s academic credential evaluation process:
a completed CASW application form, which includes reasons why the applicant wants to be evaluated and accurately states what credential the applicant holds and what institution issued it
a completed verification form signed and sealed by the dean or director of the school/faculty of social work where the applicant received his or her degree and mailed directly to CASW.
Applicants must also submit photocopies (in English or French) of:
official university transcripts, including a record of the courses taken and the grades obtained (original transcript must have been signed and sealed by the academic institution’s dean or director of the school or faculty of social work)
social work certificate(s) or diplomas(s) obtained
social work course descriptions (from university syllabus or other official document), as well as descriptions of courses or experience necessary to meet admission requirements
social work field practice description (from university syllabus or other official document), including number of hours of field practice
proof of membership in professional social work association(s) from another country, if applicable.
d. Academic/Program Requirements
i. Requirements for Social Workers
The CASW determines degree equivalency based on the following criteria.
Social workers in Ontario are university graduates of a social work program accredited by the CASWE. They have achieved an undergraduate bachelor of social work degree (BSW), which takes four years, or a master of social work degree (MSW), which takes one or two years after the completion of a bachelor degree, or both.
The BSW is usually a four-year undergraduate program that includes courses in the humanities and the natural and social sciences, social work professional courses and field practice. The general requirement is a minimum of 60 credits in the following areas: social work intervention methods, social policy, field of practice and social problems, research methods and field work (a minimum of 700 hours). A BSW graduate is expected to achieve “a level of competence adequate for undertaking initial responsibility in general practice.”
The MSW is either a one-year graduate program following the BSW or a two-year graduate program that admits candidates who hold general arts or other non-social work bachelor degrees. Field practice is an essential component of both models. Although a thesis, dissertation or research report is not an essential component, CASW takes it into consideration. Programs at the master’s level are intended to contribute to the preparation of graduates who possess an advanced level of competence with respect to a particular social problem area, professional service sector, social work methodology, professional role or function or in a combination of these.
The Council of the OCSWSSW has also approved a policy that sets out the criteria by which the Registrar will determine whether an individual applying for registration as a social worker has a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience substantially equivalent to a degree in social work from a social work program accredited by the CASWE.
ii. Requirements for Social Service Workers
Social service workers in Ontario have achieved a diploma in social service work from a college of applied arts and technology (CAAT) in Ontario, or have graduated from a program at a CAAT in Ontario that is not a social service work program but has been approved by the Council of the college to be equivalent to a social service work diploma from a CAAT, or have graduated from a program outside of Ontario that has been approved by the Council of the college to be equivalent to a social service work program from a CAAT.
The Council has also approved a policy that sets out the criteria by which the Registrar will determine whether an individual applying for registration has a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience substantially equivalent to a diploma in social service work from a CAAT in Ontario.
e. Work Experience Requirements
Work experience is not an entry-to-practice requirement for registration with the OCSWSSW for applicants who possess one of the following: a social work degree from a CASW-evaluated accredited social work program; a diploma in social service work from a program offered in Ontario; or a program approved by Council of the college as equivalent to a social service work program offered in Ontario.
Applicants who do not have a social work degree or a diploma in social service work may apply to the college on the basis of having a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience. It is the Registrar’s determination whether their combination of academic qualifications and practical experience is substantially equivalent to a social work degree accredited by the CASWE or to a diploma in social service work in Ontario.
f. Examinations
There are no examinations required to register with OCSWSSW as either a social worker or social service worker at this time. The Council of the college has approved entry-to-practice examinations for both professions in the future. The timeframe for implementation has not yet been determined.
g. Language Requirements
All applicants demonstrate language proficiency either by indicating on the application form that English or French is their primary language of communication, or is the language in which they completed their social work or social service work education, or is the language in which they principally and currently practice the profession. Applicants who do not indicate that they meet all of these criteria must demonstrate language fluency by submitting language scores assessed no earlier than two years prior to the date the application is received by the college. The following language tests are accepted by the college:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and Test of Spoken English (TSE): TOEFL paper-based score of at least 600 and a TSE score of at least 55 or a computer-based score of at least 250 and TSE of at least 55
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Score of at least 7 in each of reading, listening, writing and speaking
Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): Written score of at least 85 and a speaking score of at least 4.
CanTest (English): Minimum score of at least 5 in each of reading, listening, writing and speaking
TestCan (French): Minimum score of at least 5 in each of reading, listening, writing and speaking
h. Fees
Unless otherwise indicated, all fees are in Canadian dollars and exclude the GST.
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| CASW evaluation of accreditation1 | $250 (GST incl) |
| Application fee | $75 |
| Annual fee2 | $340 |
|
Registration fee for new graduates, |
$240 |
| Annual fee for new graduates4 | $240 |
| Late payment fee | $50 |
| Tuition costs Ryerson IESW program 5 | $4,000 |
1 Payable to CASW.
2 Prorated quarterly based on the date when the certificate of registration is issued. A refund of the prorated registration fee is issued, if applicable, when the certificate of registration is issued.
3 Applies to new graduates who apply for registration on or before December 31 of the year in which they graduate from a social work or social service work program. The registration fee is prorated quarterly based on the date when the certificate of registration is issued. A refund of the prorated registration fee, if applicable, is issued at the time the certificate of registration is issued.
4 In the two subsequent years of membership, provided that annual fee is paid prior to the date on which the late penalty payment is effective.
5 Payable to Ryerson University.
In addition to the expenses above, applicants may have to pay for:
translation of documents
language proficiency tests
cost of verifying academic qualifications.
i. Third Parties
| Name of Third Party | Relationship to Regulatory Body |
|---|---|
|
Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) |
Assesses equivalency of non-North American social work academic qualifications |
|
Ryerson University |
Provides bridging program for internationally trained social workers. |
|
Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE) |
Accredits Canadian degrees in social work |
j. Typical Length of the Registration Process
For applicants who graduated with a social work degree or social service work diploma as set out in the registration regulation and registration policies, the OCSWSSW can process an application and notify the applicant of its decision within four weeks of receiving all required documents. The college will make every effort, once all required documents are received, to accede to the requests of applicants who ask that their applications be expedited.
The length of the registration process may be longer for applicants who are applying for registration with a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience (i.e., who were educated in a discipline other than social work or social service work).
The CASW’s evaluation of international social work academic credentials usually takes four to five weeks after receiving the fee and all required documentation.
k. Accredited Programs
i. Accredited Social Work Programs in Ontario
The following is a list of accredited bachelor of social work and master of social work programs in Ontario. Graduates who have obtained a degree in social work from these programs usually meet the academic requirement for registration as social workers with the college.
Carleton University, Ottawa, BSW, MSW
Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, BSW, MSW
Laurentian University, Sudbury, BSW, MSW
McMaster University, Hamilton, BSW, MSW
Ryerson University, Toronto, BSW
University of Ottawa, MSW
University of Toronto, MSW
University of Waterloo, Renison College, BSW
University of Western Ontario, King’s College, London, BSW, (MSW in candidacy for accreditation, 2006–2011)
University of Windsor, BSW, MSW
ii. Accredited Social Work Programs in Other Provinces
The following are social work programs in other provinces that are accredited by the CASWE:
Alberta
University of Calgary
British Columbia
Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, Merritt
Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
University of British Columbia, Vancouver
University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna
University College of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford
University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George
University of Victoria
Manitoba
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg
New Brunswick
St. Thomas University, Fredericton
Université de Moncton
Newfoundland
Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s
Nova Scotia
Dalhousie University, Halifax
Quebec
McGill University, Montreal
Université Laval, Quebec
Université de Montréal
Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda
Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
Université du Québec à Montréal
Université du Québec en Outaouais, Hull
Université de Sherbrooke
Saskatchewan
First Nations University of Canada, Saskatoon
University of Regina
iii. Accredited Social Service Work Programs in Ontario
The following approved social service work programs are offered in Ontario. Graduates who have obtained a diploma in social service work from these programs usually meet the education requirement for registration as social service workers with the college. At this time, there are four non-social service work programs approved by Council of the college as being equivalent to a social service work program offered in Ontario at a college of applied arts and technology. These programs are also listed below:
Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, Ottawa
Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology, Sudbury
Canadore College of Applied Arts and Technology, North Bay
Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology, Toronto
La Cité Collégiale, Ottawa
Collège Boréal, Sudbury
Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Kitchener
Confederation College of Applied Arts and Technology, Thunder Bay
Durham College of Applied Arts and Technology – Human Services Worker Program, Oshawa
Durham College of Applied Arts and Technology – Human Services Counsellor Program, Durham Region
Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology, London and Simcoe campuses
George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology, Toronto
George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology – Community Worker Program, Toronto
George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology – Human Services Counsellor Program, Toronto
Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology, Orillia
Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Toronto
Lambton College of Applied Arts and Technology, Sarnia
Loyalist College of Applied Arts and Technology , Belleville
Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology, Hamilton
Niagara College of Applied Arts and Technology, Welland
Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology, Timmins, Kirkland Lake and Haileybury campuses
St. Lawrence College of Applied Arts and Technology, Cornwall and Kingston campuses
Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology, Sault Ste. Marie
Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology, Toronto
Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Brampton and Oakville campuses
Sir Sandford Fleming College of Applied Arts and Technology, Peterborough
l. Appeal Process/Internal Review
i. Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
If the Registrar of the college proposes to refuse to issue a Certificate of Registration, the applicant has 60 days from the receipt of the Registrar’s proposal to request that the Registration Appeals Committee review the Registrar’s proposal. If the applicant cannot make the request within 60 days, the committee might extend this deadline. However, the applicant must persuade the committee, in writing, that there are reasonable grounds for relief on the review and for extending the deadline.
It is advisable for the applicant to include a letter or documents explaining why he or she is requesting that the committee review the Registrar’s proposal to refuse to issue a Certificate of Registration. The committee bases its decision on the information provided in the letter, all the documents in the file, any documents submitted as part of the review and the unique circumstances of the review. The committee does not meet with applicants.
The Registration Appeals Committee provides the Registrar and the applicant with a written decision and reasons within 60 days after completing its review. A party to a proceeding before the committee may appeal its decision or order to Divisional Court.
The Registration Appeals Committee is one of the statutory committees created by the Social Work and Social Service Work Act. The membership of the committee is set out in the act, as are the dispositional powers of the committee.
There are two social workers and two social service workers (only one of the four can be a non-Council member) and two public members, for a total of six members on the Registration Appeals Committee.
No person who has been involved in the processing of applications or decisions made regarding applications is involved in the registration appeals decision.
Information about the Registration Appeals Committee is available on the OCSWSSW website.
ii. Canadian Association of Social Workers
Applicants whose academic qualifications are not granted equivalence to a Canadian social work degree by the Canadian Association of Social Workers can appeal this decision in writing to the President of CASW, within three months of being informed of the decision.
Applicants whose academic qualifications are judged by CASW to be equivalent to a Canadian BSW but who are seeking equivalency to a Canadian MSW can ask for a review of this decision in a letter to the Executive Director of the CASW within six months of being informed of CASW’s decision.
4. BRIDGING PROGRAMS
Internationally educated social workers can obtain a Certificate in Canadian Social Work Practice at the Internationally Educated Social Work Professionals (IESW) bridging program at Ryerson University’s G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education, in Toronto.
This one-year program is not a requirement for working as a social worker in Ontario; rather, it provides an introduction to social services in Canada and includes training, mentorship, employment and career support, and supervised work placements for qualified social work professionals educated outside of Canada. Participants gain an overview of the structure of social services in Ontario, including current labour market skills and expectations; acquire employment experience and orientation to the Canadian workplace; and expand their network of social service employers and organizations.
The course starts each September and runs for one academic year. The application deadline is March 31 of the year in which the applicant wishes to start.
The admission requirements are:
registration as a social worker with the OCSWSSW or a social work degree assessed by the Canadian Association of Social Workers as equivalent to a BSW or an MSW. A minimum of one year of paid accumulated employment in the social service field (abroad and/or in Canada) is also necessary.
or
a baccalaureate degree from outside Canada (at least three years of university study) in the humanities or social sciences that is assessed by World Education Services (course by course) as equivalent to a Canadian degree, and a minimum of two years paid accumulated employment in the social service field (abroad and/or in Canada)
a passing grade on the Ryerson Test of English Proficiency and the Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLBPT)
participation (if requested by Ryerson) in a pre-admission process in May or June
a letter stating the intention to register in the Certificate in Canadian Social Work Practice and a current résumé or curriculum vitae
proof of Ontario residency, such as a copy of an Ontario health insurance card or an Ontario driver’s licence
proof of eligibility to work in Canada (i.e., Canadian citizenship or landed immigrant status or open employment authorization).
In addition to its certificate program, the IESW bridging program coordinates a network of internationally educated social work professionals living in the Greater Toronto Area. Members receive regular e-mail bulletins with information about employment, and volunteer and professional development opportunities. Network meetings are held quarterly in different social work settings, and include discussions about social work practice and employment issues.
The IESW bridging program also provides individual support, information and referrals on academic and employment pathways.
In addition, Ryerson University offers a non-credit course (Introduction to Social Services in Ontario) that reflects the specific needs of internationally educated professionals who have experience in the social service field, and provides an orientation to social services in Ontario.
5. MUTUAL RECOGNITION AGREEMENTS
There is a mutual recognition agreement respecting registered social workers in Canada. The MRA was signed in 2007 by all provinces except Newfoundland and Labrador. Under the terms of the MRA, the majority of registered social workers in Canada will meet the registration requirements of the OCSWSSW.
There is no mutual recognition agreement for social service workers. Ontario is the only province in Canada that regulates social service workers.
There is no mutual recognition agreement between Ontario and any state in the United States. However, graduates from social work programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (the US social work accrediting body) meet the academic requirements for registration as social workers in Ontario.
6. APPLICANTS’ INTERACTIONS WITH REGULATORY BODY
a. Nature and Frequency of Communication
The College acknowledges by letter all applications it receives and issues letters to applicants whose applications are incomplete or lacking documentation. Applicants can also telephone, e-mail, fax or write to the College at any time.
b. Backlogs
There is no backlog of applications from applicants who have completed education/training in social work or social service work. However, there is some delay in processing the applications of those who completed training in a discipline other than social work or social service work.
c. Complaints Regarding the Registration Process
The OCSWSSW deals with complaints on an individual basis, and these are initially handled by the Registration Department. If the complaint is more complex, the Deputy Registrar or Registrar may get involved. The majority of complaints are from applicants who have applied for registration on the basis of a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience ( i.e., their academic credentials are not in social work or social service work). Due to the complexity and unique nature of each application, these reviews are usually detailed and lengthy, resulting in a long waiting period before an applicant is informed in writing of the Registrar’s decision.
7. CHANGES SINCE THE 2005 SURVEY
The Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration conducted a survey in 2005 to collect information about occupational regulatory bodies in Ontario. On November 1, 2006, the Minister’s report on the five-year review of the Social Work and Social Service Work Act was released. The report made some recommendations regarding amendments to the act and to the registration regulation. As yet, these recommendations have not been implemented.
A career map is being developed and is close to completion. In addition, the college is reviewing its website to improve navigation and to clarify the registration process.
8. REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND STATISTICS
Definitions used in these tables:
Alternative class of licence: a class of licence that enables its holder to practise with limitations; additional registration requirements must be met in order to be fully licensed. Alternative classes of licence granted by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers are specified under the tables below.
Applicant: an individual who has applied to start the process for entry to the profession.
Applicant actively pursuing licensing: an applicant who had some contact with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers within the year specified.
Inactive applicant: an applicant who had no contact with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers within the year specified.
Member: an individual who is currently able to use the protected title or professional designation of “social worker” or “social service worker.”
| Language | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| English |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| French |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Other(s) |
|
|
|
| Applications received | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largest number |
United States |
United States |
United States |
| Second-largest number |
India |
India |
India |
| Third-largest number |
United Kingdom |
Hong Kong |
Hong Kong |
| Fourth-largest number |
Pakistan |
Pakistan |
Philippines |
| Fifth-largest number |
tied1 |
tied1 |
United Kingdom |
1 Tied among five countries in 2005 and 2006.
| Number of staff | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Involved in registration process1 |
7 |
10.5 |
10.5 |
| Involved in appeals process2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 Includes the Registrar and Deputy Registrar.
2 Administrative support only.
| Members | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Worker (RSW) members/ Social Service Worker (RSSW) members |
8,872/1,095 |
937/4 |
715/3 |
404/7 |
10,928/1,109 |
| Non-practising members |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in social work and social service work (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2005 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received for RSWs/RSSWs |
559/152 |
76/0 |
62/0 |
46/1 |
743/153 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who became members – RSWs/RSSWs |
530/139 |
70/0 |
58/0 |
41/0 |
699/139 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence1 but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 Certificate of Registration with terms, conditions or limitations (provisional – SW or SSW)
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in social work and social service work (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2006 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received for RSWs/RSSWs |
583/168 |
70/1 |
54/2 |
46/1 |
753/172 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who became members – RSWs/RSSWs |
557/157 |
67/0 |
46/0 |
42/0 |
712/157 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence1 but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 Certificate of Registration with terms, conditions or limitations (provisional – SW or SSW)
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in social work and social service work (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2007 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received for RSWs/RSSWs |
706/207 |
84/0 |
79/0 |
51/4 |
920/211 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who became members – RSWs/RSSWs |
633/160 |
73/0 |
60/0 |
44/4 |
810/164 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence1 but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 Certificate of Registration with terms, conditions or limitations (provisional – SW or SSW)
9. SOURCES
Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work website: http://www.cassw-acess.ca/xASSOC/as1.htm. Last accessed: February 22, 2008.
Canadian Association of Social Workers website: http://www.casw-acts.ca/. Last accessed: February 12, 2008.
Council on Social Work Education website: http://www.cswe.org/CSWE/. Last accessed: February 12, 2008
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers website: http://www.ocswssw.org. Last accessed: February 22, 2008.
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration, Ontario. “Access to the Social Worker and Social Service Worker Designation in Ontario.” Draft document provided to the Office of the Fairness Commissioner by OCSWSSW.
Representatives of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers met with staff of the Office of the Fairness Commissioner on January 14, 2008, to provide further information for this study.