Challenge Exam

The programme by virtue of its relevance to Native social work and focus on bi-cultural competence is in a strong position to facilitate the professional development of Social Workers involved in Aboriginal communities in Northern Ontario and elsewhere. Students with two full-time years of social work experience can challenge the third year field placement and up to six credits in the fourth year with the exception of NSWK 4305 and the fourth year Field 4065 which cannot be challenged.  Students interested in undertaking a challenge option submit their intentions to the Access Supervisor (Scorbiere@laurentian.ca) who then sends them the challenge package required to complete the exam. 

The student completes the package which should include:  A resume or CV of work and volunteer experience and two verifiable references.  In Category 1 field work, students are required to complete one essay and or one video demonstrating mastery of the required attitude, skills and knowledge.  In Category 2 courses, they are required to complete a major essay demonstrating mastery of the required knowledge and attitudes.

The Access Supervisor establishes a Challenge Committee made up of two faculty members who will review the material submitted.  The Challenge Committee then returns a pass/fail grade to the Access Supervisor.  The student will be advised of the result of the challenge exam by the Access Supervisor.