Frequently Asked Questions

The following are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Mount Royal University's Social Work Diploma.

The social work profession promotes social change, problem-solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being. Utilizing theories of human behaviour and social systems, social work intervenes at the points where people interact with their environments. Principles of human rights and social justice are fundamental to social work. (Definition of Social Work, The International Federation of Social Work, 2014.)

Social workers require the following skills to be effective:

  • excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • interest in people, maturity, patience and high energy
  • independent, resourceful, responsible, ethical
  • capacity to work well in small groups and collaborative environments
  • creative and innovative problem solving skills
  • ability to put aside personal bias and beliefs and to be sensitive to the beliefs of others
  • awareness of community, national, and international issues that effect how people live their lives
  • the desire to make a difference

Students in the Social Work Diploma program will learn how to work effectively with individuals, families, groups and communities in a variety of settings. Students will learn about the history and values of the profession and the responsibility for ethical and accountable practice. Social work education helps students to integrate theory and practice. Through classroom, online and practicum experiences, students have the opportunity to develop and practice their social work skills, have contact with clients in supervised practicum placements and to develop a framework for practice as a social worker.

Mount Royal's Social Work Diploma program graduates can expect to find employment opportunities in a number of settings with different types of clients. Currently graduates are employed by hospitals, school boards, social service agencies, immigrant serving agencies, correctional facilities, justice programs, community agencies, employee assistance programs and Aboriginal band councils.

Graduates may pursue a Bachelor of Social Work at many universities across Canada, including the University of Calgary, Thompson Rivers University, and the University of Manitoba. Graduates may also choose to stay at Mount Royal to complete a degree, such as Psychology, with a minor in Indigenous Studies or Women's and Gender Studies.

Students in the Social Work Diploma program in the province of Alberta can apply for registration as students when they enter the program. Graduates can apply for provisional registration as members. Additional supervised hours are required for registration. Please check the Alberta College of Social Workers website for more information on the process of registration for students and graduates.

Upon receipt of an application for admission and an official transcript from each current or previously attended a post-secondary institution, transfer course equivalencies are assessed.

Learn more about Mount Royal's transfer equivalency and credit requirements.

If you're unsure of how to pay for your education, or if you're eligible for funding, Money Matters can help.

Learn more about the types of funding options available to Indigenous students and how you can apply.

Mount Royal has a general admission policy that must be met to be considered for admission into our academic programs.

Learn more about the Social Work Diploma program-specific admission requirements.