COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Social Work Indigenous Specialization (MSWI) program is delivered primarily through distance education, beginning with a mandatory on-campus institute typically held in late August. This initial residency provides students with foundational orientation, relationship-building, and engagement with program expectations before transitioning into online learning. The program is designed to support practitioners working in Indigenous contexts by integrating Indigenous knowledge systems, research approaches, and culturally grounded social work practices throughout the curriculum. Students complete a structured set of core courses focused on policy contexts of practice, research methodologies, Indigenous perspectives on knowledge and research, and self-conscious traditionalism in Indigenous social work practice. After completing these foundational courses, students choose between two program pathways: a thesis option or a course-based option. The thesis route includes SOCW 599, a 6.0-unit independent research project, along with 3.0 units of electives, allowing students to engage in in-depth scholarly work. The course-based option includes a 4.5-unit Indigenous practicum (SOCW 506A) and a 1.5-unit MSW capstone (SOCW 571), along with 3.0 units of electives that support applied learning. Both pathways emphasize Indigenous-centered learning, ethical practice, and research-informed approaches. Electives provide flexibility, while maintaining strict guidelines on course selection and prior credit eligibility.