Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) MSW Application Guide
If you are considering advancing your social work career through graduate studies, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) offers a comprehensive and flexible pathway. This guide provides detailed insights into the program's structure, admission requirements, application process, and key considerations to help you navigate your application successfully.
MUN MSW Application Deadline and Timelines
Memorial’s MSW program only accepts new students for a Fall (September) intake. Because admission is highly competitive and enrollment is limited, it is important to submit a strong application on time.
Application Deadline: January 15 of each year
Start Term: September of the same year
Decisions Released: Typically by late spring or early summer
Academic Requirements
Memorial University offers a thesis and course-based MSW pathway. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Standard Admission Requirements:
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a recognized institution, with at least second-class standing and an overall average of 70% in your final 60 credit hours.
A minimum of two years of post-BSW professional experience in social work (or closely related) settings. This experience must be completed by the time of application.
English Language Proficiency (for international applicants):
If English is not your first language, you must provide proof of proficiency.
What the Admissions Committee Looks For
Admissions decisions at MUN are holistic, meaning they assess your full application package rather than just grades. You will be evaluated on:
Academic ability: GPA, quality of prior coursework, and potential for graduate-level success
Professional experience: Depth, relevance, leadership, and community impact
Personal readiness: Self-awareness, critical thinking, motivation, and alignment with social work values
Program fit: Whether your goals align with the MSW program and faculty expertise
Step-by-Step Application Process: MUN MSW
Step 1: Apply Online
Submit your application through Memorial's School of Graduate Studies portal. You will need to pay a non-refundable application fee ($60 for Canadian students, $120 for international students).
Step 2: Upload Supporting Documents
All materials are submitted electronically through your applicant portal. These include:
Statement of Interest
Your reasons for applying to the MUN MSW program
How your personal and professional background has shaped your interest in social work
Your current areas of interest in research or advanced practice
Why you are choosing the thesis or course-based route
Resume/CV
Include your academic history, employment, volunteer roles, certifications, research, professional development, and other relevant experiences. Aim to demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and engagement with social justice.
Two Letters of Reference
One academic reference from a professor or instructor familiar with your academic potential
One professional reference from a supervisor or colleague in a social work (or similar) setting
Referees will receive automated links after you submit your application.
Official Transcripts
Must be sent directly from each post-secondary institution you have attended.
Proof of English Language Proficiency (if applicable)
Writing a Strong Statement of Interest
Your Statement of Interest is one of the most important parts of your application. It is your opportunity to show who you are and why MUN is the right fit.
Make sure to address the following:
Why MSW at Memorial?
Share what draws you to MUN’s MSW program specifically, whether it is the critical, equity-focused approach, the flexibility of distance delivery, and/or the opportunity for thesis research. The more specific you are the better. The admissions committee wants to know why you are choosing their program over another school.Your Social Work Identity
Reflect on how your lived experience, professional journey, and values shape your social work practice. Demonstrate your awareness of power, privilege, and the role of social justice in your work. It is important that any example you provide (personal, professional, etc.) directly relates back to how this informs your social work identity.Your Goals
Whether you are interested in mental health, Indigenous social work, community development, or policy work, describe your short and long-term goals and how the program will help you achieve them. The admissions committee will want to know why you need this specific degree to meet your goals, so the more specific the better.Thesis or Course-Based?
Indicate which stream you are interested in. For thesis applicants, share a specific research interest and how you plan to pursue it. For course-based students, highlight the types of advanced practice you hope to deepen through coursework and practicum.
Resume Tips for MSW Applicants
Make sure your resume highlights your readiness for graduate study and advanced social work practice.
Clear section headers (e.g., Education, Professional Experience, Volunteerism, Certifications)
Specific transferable social work skills (e.g., active listening, conflict resolution)
Leadership or advocacy roles
Research, publications, or presentations (if applicable)
Training or certifications (e.g., ASIST)
Even if your roles were not directly social work related, describe the transferable skills you used including crisis support, program development, advocacy, etc.
Related Resource: How to Write A Social Work Resume (Grad School Edition)
Educational Equity and Access
Memorial is committed to equity and inclusion. Up to 10% of spaces are reserved for applicants of Indigenous ancestry, and another 10% for individuals from equity-deserving groups (e.g., racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, disabled, or other marginalized communities).
If this applies to you, consider submitting the MSW Educational Equity Form alongside your application. This is voluntary but may strengthen your application.
Choosing Between Thesis and Course-Based
Thesis Stream: Best suited for applicants interested in research, policy, or pursuing doctoral study. You will complete a major independent research project under faculty supervision.
Course-Based Stream: Ideal for applicants looking to deepen clinical or leadership skills. Includes seven courses, a 500-hour field internship, and a final scholarly project called the Pathway Scholarship.
Both streams include short in-person residencies in St. John’s (two for thesis, three for course-based), each lasting 6–8 days.
Final Advice for Applicants
Start Early: Begin gathering documents, planning your references, and drafting your essay at least 2–3 months before the deadline
Be Specific: Avoid vague statements like “I want to help people.” Reflect critically and provide examples that make your application memorable
Connect with the Program: Attend info sessions, explore the faculty's research interests, and consider how your goals align
Proofread Everything: Typos and unclear writing can detract from your application’s quality
Conclusion
Applying to MUN’s MSW program is a competitive but rewarding process. Whether your passion lies in advancing clinical practice, engaging in community-based research, or shaping policy change, MUN offers a program that balances academic rigor with practical relevance. To learn more or to begin the application process, visit the Memorial University MSW website.
