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Social Work

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Social Work

Build the skills to support individuals and strengthen communities. NorQuest College’s approved and accredited two-year Social Work diploma program combines practical training with a focus on human diversity, including multicultural and Indigenous perspectives. You’ll learn how to work within an anti-oppressive and ethical framework, gaining the knowledge and tools to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Crystal Thompson - Social Work

When I first came to NorQuest I had very little education. I was really scared. But the people, the teachers, the indigenous mentors, and other students helped me discover who I am.

Crystal Thompson

Social Work, 2017

What to expect from the program

Students in the Social Work program can expect to develop knowledge and skills in the following areas: 

  • Social work foundations 
  • The helping process 
  • Social policy 
  • Assessment and interviewing 
  • Social work models and practice 
  • Working with groups 
  • Working with families and communities 
  • Mental health 
  • Abuse, violence, and addictions 

Program themes include: 

  • Competency working in different cultures 
  • Social work practice that recognizes and deals with oppression 
  • Awareness of cultural displacement issues 
  • Awareness of personal abilities and resiliency 
  • Spirituality 
  • Community practice 
  • Holistic practice 
  • Practice in specialized settings 

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity. 

You’ll graduate from this program with 700 hours of work experience from two practicums.

Your delivery option

To support your learning experience, this program is offered in the following format:

In person

Classes are held in a classroom with face-to-face instruction and regularly scheduled meeting times. 

Career opportunities

Graduates can explore career opportunities in governmental and non-governmental settings that involve child welfare, education, health, immigration, and justice systems. 

Additionally, graduates can work with individuals, families, groups and/or communities in areas such as mental health and addiction, family conflict, child and youth protection, settlement support for newcomers, and correctional services. 
For more information on related careers see: 

This program prepares you to step confidently into your field while providing the flexibility to continue your education. Credits you earn may be transferable toward additional diplomas, degrees, or certifications—helping you advance your career and increase your earning potential.

Explore transfer pathways

What to expect as a social worker 

As a social worker, you may have the ability to improve the quality of life for yourself and for others through self-reflection and offering resources, services, and opportunities for your prospective clients. In addition, you will be prepared to create social change through your work and professional activities. 

Related programs

Community Support Worker

This exciting certificate program provides you with the knowledge and skills to work with marginalized communities and individuals at the front line in a human service delivery setting.

Indigenous Studies

Explore topics in Indigenous ways of knowing and being, social policy and laws, land-based learning, and more with NorQuest’s Indigenous Studies diploma. 

Justice

This two-year diploma prepares you for a career in justice through focused study of Alberta laws, policies, and the socio-economic factors that influence crime. 

Attend an upcoming information session

Join a student recruiter and program expert to explore everything you need to know, from program structure, career pathways, transfer agreements, admission requirements, and more. Bring your questions—we’re here to help!

January 20, 2026

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Edmonton

Register

February 24, 2026

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Edmonton

Register

March 17, 2026

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Edmonton

Register

Have a question about the Social Work program?

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