Master of Social Work [MSW]
Field of Study:
$11,232 /Yr
Memorial University of Newfoundland Master of Social Work [MSW] is a nationally accredited online professional degree for BSW graduates. International students pay C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) in total tuition across three consecutive semesters at St. John’s. Two or more years of professional social work practice are required; the next intake is September 2027.
The programme trains graduates for advanced social work practice across health, mental health, community development, and policy settings. Its PATHWAY mentoring system is unique to MUN among Canadian MSW programmes, pairing students with faculty for intensive specialised scholarly work.
- The programme offers both a thesis route and a course completion route to accommodate different career and research goals.
- The mandatory 500-hour field practicum can be completed near the student’s place of residence if qualified supervision is available.
- CASWE accreditation enables MUN MSW graduates to register as a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in all Canadian provinces.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 November 2026.
Indian applicants must submit a WES (World Education Services) evaluation of their BSW degree alongside the application. WES academic evaluations take 7 to 10 weeks; beginning the process by September 2026 ensures results are ready before the deadline.
Also Check: Memorial University MSW Admission Requirements and Deadlines
Memorial University MSW Fees and Living Costs 2027
The MSW programme charges a single total tuition of C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) for the full programme rather than a per-semester rate. The table below lists all mandatory cost components for international students.
| Fee Component | Amount (C$) | INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Total Programme Tuition | C$15,600 | INR 10.76 Lakhs |
| Application Fee (one-time) | C$120 | INR 8,280 |
| International Health Insurance (annual) | C$900 | INR 62,100 |
| Student Union Fees (annual) | C$700 | INR 48,300 |
| Study Materials (estimated) | C$500 | INR 34,500 |
| Total Estimated Programme Cost | C$17,820 | INR 12.30 Lakhs |
Source: Memorial University Graduate Tuition and Fees Schedule 2026; mun.ca/become/graduate/tuition-fees-and-funding/
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of C$1 = INR 69.00 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- The total programme tuition of C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) covers all three full-time semesters with no additional per-course charges.
- International health insurance (C$900 / INR 62,100 per year) and student union fees (C$700 / INR 48,300 per year) are mandatory ancillary costs.
- Study materials costs are low for the online-delivered MSW; estimated at C$500 (INR 34,500) for the full programme.
- The one-time application fee of C$120 (INR 8,280) is non-refundable and paid to the School of Graduate Studies at the time of application.
Cost of Living in St. John’s for MSW Students
St. John’s is one of Canada’s most affordable cities for graduate students. Monthly living expenses vary by housing choice and personal lifestyle.
| Expense Category | On-Campus Monthly (C$) | Off-Campus Monthly (C$) | Off-Campus INR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | C$650 | C$550 | INR 37,950 |
| Meals | C$350 | C$350 | INR 24,150 |
| Local Transportation | C$150 | C$150 | INR 10,350 |
| Monthly Total | C$1,150 | C$1,050 | INR 72,450 |
| Annual Total | C$13,800 | C$12,600 | INR 8.69 Lakhs |
Also Check: Memorial University Full Fee Structure for International Students
Read More: Cost of Living in Canada for International Students
Key insight: The total estimated cost for MUN’s MSW (tuition, fees, one year of St. John’s living) is approximately C$30,420 (INR 21.00 Lakhs). Most Canadian MSW programmes cost C$40,000 to C$80,000 (INR 27.60 Lakhs to INR 55.20 Lakhs) over their full duration.
Memorial University MSW Admission 2027
The MSW programme at Memorial University admits a selective cohort each year for the September intake. Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee acceptance; the School of Social Work considers the full application holistically.
The table below shows the next available intake and application deadline for international students.
| Intake | Start Date | Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | September 2027 | 15 November 2026 | Open |
The following table outlines the academic and professional requirements for MSW admission at Memorial University.
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | BSW or equivalent undergraduate degree in social work |
| Academic Standing | 70% average in final 60 credit hours (second-class standing) |
| Professional Experience | Minimum 2 years post-BSW social work or comparable human service practice |
| Statement of Interest | Required (research interests, practice focus, programme motivation) |
| Letters of Appraisal | 2 required (one academic, one assessing professional practice) |
| Resume | PDF format, submitted with application |
- Indian BSW degrees from NAAC-accredited institutions are accepted; a WES credential evaluation confirming second-class standing equivalent is mandatory.
- The professional appraisal letter must specifically assess social work practice performance, not general workplace conduct.
- The Statement of Interest should name specific MUN faculty research areas that align with the applicant’s practice goals.
- Non-BSW applicants with a degree in a related field may be considered but typically require additional preparatory coursework.
The programme is accredited by CASWE (Canadian Association for Social Work Education). CASWE accreditation confirms the MSW meets national standards for professional social work education in Canada. Memorial University holds a QS World University Rankings 2026 rank of 660 and a Times Higher Education rank of 501 to 600 globally for 2025.
English Language Proficiency Requirements for MUN MSW
International students whose first language is not English must submit scores from one of the accepted tests below. All tests must be taken within two years of the application deadline.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Reading | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 20 | 20 |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 115 | - | - |
| CAEL | 60 | - | - |
| MET (Michigan English Test) | 59 | - | - |
- Indian students from English-medium universities may apply for a language waiver; approval depends on the institution and the specific degree medium of instruction.
- IELTS Academic is the most widely accepted test for Canadian graduate admissions and is the safest choice for Indian applicants.
- The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a home-based, budget-friendly alternative to IELTS; MUN accepts a minimum score of 115 for graduate programmes.
Honest take: Most Indian applicants from English-medium universities meet the IELTS 6.5 overall threshold without difficulty. The 6.0 minimum component score in writing is the more specific preparation target to focus on.
Tip for Indian students: MUN MSW admission is selective; applicants with above-70% standing and specialised experience in health, mental health, or community social work are well-positioned to compete successfully.
Memorial University MSW Application 2027
The application cycle for the September 2027 intake is currently open. All documents must reach the School of Graduate Studies by 15 November 2026; incomplete files are not reviewed.
The table below shows the upcoming deadline for international MSW applicants.
| Intake | Expected Start | Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | September 2027 | 15 November 2026 | Open |
The following documents are required for a complete MSW application at Memorial University.
- Completed online application form submitted to the School of Graduate Studies at gradapply@mun.ca.
- Statement of Interest in PDF format discussing research interests, practice focus, and motivation for graduate social work study.
- Resume in PDF format outlining professional social work experience in chronological order.
- Two letters of appraisal from qualified referees (one academic, one professional social work supervisor).
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- WES credential evaluation for degrees awarded outside Canada.
- English language proficiency test scores if the first language is not English.
Application tip: One letter of appraisal must evaluate academic performance. The second must assess professional social work practice specifically; a generic reference without social work context will not satisfy this requirement.
Memorial University MSW Scholarships 2027
International MSW students at Memorial University can access limited entrance-based awards from the School of Graduate Studies. Full tuition scholarships are not typically available for professional master’s students; most funding takes the form of partial awards.
The table below outlines the main scholarship and award options available to incoming MSW students.
| Award | Value (C$) | INR Equivalent | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| SGS Entrance Award | C$500 to C$3,000 | INR 34,500 to INR 2.07 Lakhs | Merit-based; minimum GPA 3.0 equivalent |
| School of Social Work Award | C$500 to C$1,500 | INR 34,500 to INR 1.04 Lakhs | Academic and professional practice merit |
| Government of Canada Bursaries | Varies | Varies | Financial need; contact Graduate Studies |
The best-case scholarship offset of C$3,000 (INR 2.07 Lakhs) per year reduces the total MSW tuition from C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) to C$12,600 (INR 8.69 Lakhs) for the full programme. International students are also permitted to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
Check Out: Memorial University Scholarships for International Students
Scholarship reality: Full tuition scholarships are not available for international MSW students at MUN. The low base tuition of C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) means partial awards provide proportionally greater relief here than at higher-fee Canadian universities.
Memorial University MSW Salary 2027
MSW graduates from Memorial University are eligible to register as Registered Social Workers (RSWs) and work across Canada. The table below shows indicative gross salaries for social workers in Canada by career stage, based on NOC 41300.
| Career Stage | Annual Gross (C$) | INR Equivalent | Typical Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0 to 2 years) | C$52,000 to C$65,000 | INR 35.88 Lakhs to INR 44.85 Lakhs | Social Worker, Community Support Worker |
| Mid-Career (3 to 7 years) | C$70,000 to C$90,000 | INR 48.30 Lakhs to INR 62.10 Lakhs | Senior Social Worker, Policy Analyst |
| Senior (8 or more years) | C$90,000 to C$104,541 | INR 62.10 Lakhs to INR 72.13 Lakhs | Programme Manager, Clinical Supervisor |
| National Median (all stages) | C$80,000 | INR 55.20 Lakhs | Registered Social Worker (RSW) |
Source: Statistics Canada Job Bank 2026, NOC 41300; PayScale Canada 2026; Canada.ca Labour Force Survey 2024.
The following are the primary career paths available to MSW graduates in the Canadian job market.
- Registered Social Worker (RSW) in hospitals, mental health centres, and child welfare agencies.
- Social Policy Analyst with federal or provincial government departments.
- Community Development Officer with nonprofit organisations and Indigenous service agencies.
- Clinical Social Worker in private practice or outpatient health settings.
- Programme Manager overseeing social service delivery in publicly funded agencies.
All salary figures above are gross (before tax). After federal income tax (14 to 33%), provincial tax, CPP (5.95%) and EI (1.63%), take-home pay is approximately 55 to 65% of gross earnings. Actual take-home varies by province and filing status.
Also Check: Memorial University Rankings and Graduate Outcomes
ROI reality: An MSW graduate earning the national median of C$80,000 (INR 55.20 Lakhs) recoups the full programme cost of C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) within three months of starting employment at entry level.
Canada Visa for MSW Students 2027
Indian students applying to MUN’s MSW programme require a Canadian study permit before classes begin in September 2027. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is the fastest processing route for Indian applicants and requires a valid IELTS score, a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) of C$20,000 (INR 13.80 Lakhs), and a medical exam. After completing the MSW, graduates can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to work anywhere in Canada.
- The PGWP is an open work permit; MSW graduates completing the one-year full-time track receive a PGWP matching the programme length of approximately one year.
- Students who complete the two-year part-time MSW route may qualify for a three-year PGWP, providing more time to accumulate Canadian work experience for permanent residency.
- Social workers (NOC 41300) are TEER 1 professionals eligible for Express Entry after 12 months of skilled Canadian employment.
- The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) offers an additional immigration pathway for graduates who work in the province after completing their MSW.
Read More: Canada Student Visa Process for Indian Applicants
Visa reality: Choosing the two-year part-time MSW track extends your study permit duration and may yield a three-year PGWP. This gives substantially more time to reach the 12-month Canadian work experience needed for Express Entry.
For practitioners seeking affordable Canadian credentials, Memorial University of Newfoundland’s MSW costs C$15,600 (INR 10.76 Lakhs) in total tuition. The online format with short on-campus institutes makes the programme accessible to Indian applicants who cannot relocate full-time. CASWE accreditation and pan-Canadian RSW registration eligibility are the defining factors for applicants weighing this programme against higher-cost alternatives.
Memorial University MSW FAQs
Ques. Is a BSW degree mandatory to apply for the MUN MSW programme?
Ans. A BSW or equivalent professional undergraduate degree in social work is required for admission to the MUN MSW. Applicants with unrelated degrees are not eligible for direct entry and may require additional preparatory coursework. Indian applicants must have their BSW evaluated by WES to confirm equivalency with Canadian second-class standing.
Ques. Can international students complete the MUN MSW without relocating permanently to Canada?
Ans. The MSW programme is delivered primarily online but requires three mandatory on-campus institutes in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Each institute runs for 6 to 8 days of intensive classroom instruction. International students must travel to Canada for these three short in-person components only.
Ques. What is the PATHWAY programme and is it mandatory for MSW students?
Ans. PATHWAY is a faculty-led mentoring initiative unique to the MUN MSW in which students undertake intensive advanced study in a chosen area of social work knowledge. It is a required component for all students in both the course route and the thesis route. Course route students complete a scholarly product called PATHWAY Scholarship; thesis route students produce a research thesis in its place.
Ques. What post-study work options are available to international MSW graduates at MUN?
Ans. MSW graduates can apply for the PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit), an open work permit allowing employment with any Canadian employer. Graduates who complete the full-time one-year track receive a PGWP of approximately one year; those completing the two-year part-time track may receive a three-year PGWP. After 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience, graduates classified under NOC 41300 are eligible to apply for Express Entry for permanent residency.
Ques. Can MSW graduates from MUN register as RSWs across all Canadian provinces?
Ans. Yes. The MUN MSW is accredited by CASWE (Canadian Association for Social Work Education), which means provincial regulatory bodies across Canada recognise the degree for professional registration purposes. Each province has its own RSW (Registered Social Worker) regulatory body with specific supervised practice hour requirements for registration. In Newfoundland and Labrador, registration is governed by the NLASW (Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Social Workers).
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $11232 (CAD 15600) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room And Board | $5184 (CAD 7200) |
| Food | $4320 (CAD 6000) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $11232 (CAD 15600) |
| 2023 | $5616 (CAD 7800) |
| 2021 | $3833 (CAD 5323) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake | |
Scores Required
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Best Post-Graduate Courses in Canada in 2025
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One year Courses in Canada for International Students: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, & Salaries
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Graduate Fellowship | Scholarship per student$ 6,390/Yr$8,875 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 720/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award | Scholarship per student$ 1,080/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,440/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Montreal Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific |
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Memorial University is a moderately competitive university with an acceptance rate of around 60-70% for undergraduate programs. The university has not mentioned the exact figuer for the said program. However, it's important to note that admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance into a program.
The tuition fee for the B.Eng Computer Engineering program of Memorial University of Newfoundland is CAD 20000 per year for international students. This amount does not include additional costs such as textbooks, health insurance, and living expenses. International students may also be required to pay additional fees such as international student fees and application fees. The acceptance rate for undegraduate admission at this university is around 60%.