hello there:)
i'm 17, and interested in possibly pursuing a career in social work (i'm not sure in exactly what area yet..). i'm from Alberta, and i'm wondering what sort of credentials are necessary to get into a social work field, and where i might be able to get them. i should also add that i don't have a highschool diploma (i dropped out because of anxiety problems, which i'm now overcoming), so I know that limits my opportunities quite a bit. But I was looking into Grant McEwan Community College in Edmonton, and have found that I can get into their social work program when i'm 19, without a highschool diploma, if I meet other qualifications and have english 30. (at least that's my understanding..)
If anyone who's a social worker in Alberta or studying it here can give me any information, or tell me a bit about what my other options are, like where i can study social work and the requirements i need to meet first, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks in advance,
Cindi :)

ok, after searching the net some more, i've found the info i was initially looking for about where i can study social work and what sort of degrees i can get... but now that brings me to the question of what sorts of jobs will be available to me with the minimum requirements. will i still be able to find a decent job with only a diploma from a 2-year social work course, as opposed to a BSW or MSW?
does anyone know if there's much available for people without a higher degree?

Thanks again,
Cindi :)

Hello Cindi! I am a social worker here in Alberta and I have been working full-time for 5 years with my social work diploma. I get paid about 30K a year which isn't that bad. I am taking my BSW part time also as I do enjoy school. It is importatn to build up some volunteer hours as I do beileive grant macewan requires them. (Mount roayl and red deer college do for sure)Have you check out the macewan webpage?

Also check out teh Alberta College of Social Workers: www.acsw.ab.ca

email me if you like :)