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Memorial University
School of Social Work

MSW PATHWAY and
Pathway Scholarship MANUAL

SCWK 6000 PATHWAY
SCWK 6417 Pathway Scholarship

Program Requirements for MSW Students
Admitted Beginning Fall 2011
October 2013

Mike Devine, PhD, RSW

Graduate Officer
Memorial University of Newfoundland
School of Social Work
St. Johns, NL Canada, A1C 5S7
mdevine@mun.ca www.mun.ca/socwrk

1

Table of Contents
1. The MSW PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship Manual .................... 1
1.1 Introduction ..................................................................................... 1
1.2 Summary of Roles, Responsibilities, and Contract Information for
Key People in the MSW Program ....................................................... 1
1.2.1 Graduate Secretary ..................................................................... 1
1.2.2 Graduate Student Services Coordinator ......................................... 2
1.2.3 The PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator ............................. 2
1.2.4 Graduate Officer ......................................................................... 2
1.2.5 Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Scholarships ..................... 3
1.2.6 MSW Field Education Coordinator ................................................. 3
1.2.7 Faculty Mentor ........................................................................... 3
1.2.8 Community Advisor ..................................................................... 4

2 The Memorial University MSW Program ........................................... 4
2.1 The MSW Curriculum ........................................................................ 4
2.1.1 Core Courses ............................................................................. 4
2.1.2 Program of Study ....................................................................... 5
2.1.3 Program Format ....................................................................... 15

3 Memorial University MSW PATHWAY ............................................. 15
3.1 MSW PATHWAY Description ............................................................ 15
3.2 Finding A Mentor ............................................................................ 16
3.3 Student-Mentor Relationship and Expectations .............................. 17
3.4 Resolution Process ......................................................................... 17
3.5 Requesting a Change in Mentor ...................................................... 18
3.6 Developing a Program of Scholarship ............................................. 18
3.7 PATHWAY Learning Goals ............................................................... 19
3.8 Completion of PATHWAY Learning Contract .................................... 19
3.9 Completion of PATHWAY Progress Report ...................................... 20
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3.10 MSW PATHWAY Credit Hours .......................................................... 20
3.11 Grading for PATHWAY (SCWK 6000) ............................................... 20

4 The Memorial University Pathway Scholarship............................... 21
4.1 MSW Pathway Scholarship Description ........................................... 21
4.2 Student Expectations for MSW Pathway Scholarship ...................... 21
4.3 Pre-requisite Courses ..................................................................... 22
4.4 MSW Pathway Scholarship Credit Hours ......................................... 22
4.5 MSW Pathway Scholarship Hours ................................................... 22
4.6 Grading for MSW Pathway Scholarship ........................................... 22

5 Professional Standards, Ethics and Academic Integrity ................. 23

6 Coverage for the Student ............................................................... 24
6.1 Expenses ........................................................................................ 24
6.2 Liability Insurance .......................................................................... 24
6.3 Workers Compensation Coverage .................................................. 24
6.4 Sexual Harassment ......................................................................... 25

7 Evaluation ...................................................................................... 25
7.1 Evaluation of Student Learning ....................................................... 25
7.2 Student Evaluation of MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship ......... 25





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1. The MSW PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship Manual
1.1. Introduction
This manual is designed to help students to understand the processes and products for
the PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship requirements of the MSW program implemented
in Fall 2011. PATHWAY (SCWK 6000) is not a traditional course, but rather an
opportunity to engage in a mentorship relationship with a faculty member, integrate their
academic and practice interests, and develop a scholarly project or thesis.
For students undertaking the course route option, PATHWAY is the foundation for the
attainment of Pathway Scholarship (SCWK 6417). Pathway Scholarship is the completion
of a scholarly work reflecting the students learning while in the MSW Program. It can be
in the form of a manuscript for publication, a research proposal with preparation of a
human subjects review, a comprehensive literature review, a training manual, data
collection and/or analysis, a research report, professional development tool, video, or
other types of scholarly work as negotiated between the student and their mentor.
For students completing a thesis option, PATHWAY offers a structured mentoring
relationship with their thesis supervisor. Thesis students do not register for or complete
Pathway Scholarship (SCWK 6417). Students completing a thesis should consult the
Thesis Guide online at: http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_intro.php
The MSW PATHWAY Manual also includes as appendices all the documents required by
the Student and the Faculty mentor(s).

1.2. Summary of Roles, Responsibilities and Contact
Information of Key People in the MSW Program
1.2.1 Graduate Secretary
The Graduate Secretary is a staff member of the Memorial University School of Social
Work who provides administrative support to the Graduate Programs.
Donna ODriscoll (709) 864-4859 (t) dodrisco@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026 (f)
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1.2.2 Graduate Student Services Coordinator
The Graduate Student Services Coordinator is a professional staff person of the School of
Social Work. The Graduate Student Services Coordinator supports the administration and
coordination of the MSW Program including marketing, admissions, plans of study,
student relations and inquiries, developing program policies and procedures and program
evaluation.
Ivy Burt, MSW, RSW (709) 864-2557 (t) iburt@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026 (f)
1.2.3 The PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator
The PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator is a Memorial University School of Social
Work faculty member who is appointed by the Dean of the School. The Coordinator is
responsible for the development, administration, and monitoring of PATHWAY and
Pathway Scholarship. The Coordinator will, as required:
Ensure an appropriate match between the student and a faculty mentor and/or
community advisor.
Provide orientation to students and faculty concerning the MSW
PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship process.
Provide advice on acceptable PATHWAY products, completion of documents, and
other matters related to MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship.
Stephen Ellenbogen, PhD (709) 864-2559 (t) sellenbogen@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026 (f)
1.2.4 Graduate Officer
The Graduate Officer is a Memorial University School of Social Work faculty member who
has been appointed by the Dean of the School to coordinate the MSW Program. The
Graduate Officer chairs the MSW Graduate Studies Committee. The Graduate Officer,
along with the Graduate Studies Committee, is responsible for the oversight and delivery
of the MSW Program, including PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship. The Graduate Officer
will mediate any difficulties arising with the student, the faculty mentor, and/or the
community advisor.
Mike Devine, PhD, RSW (709) 864-8152 (t) mdevine@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026

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1.2.5 Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Scholarship (ADGSS)
The Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Scholarship provides leadership for
graduate programs and is responsible for promoting and supporting research and
scholarship in the School. This includes working collaboratively with faculty and staff to
monitor, implement and improve all aspects of the MSW Program. Students may consult
with the Associate Dean regarding concerns about PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship if
they have not been able to resolve their concerns by speaking with their mentor or the
Graduate Officer
Ken Barter, PhD (709) 864-2030 (t) kbarter@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026 (f)
1.2.6 MSW Field Education Coordinator
The MSW Field Education Coordinator is an academic staff member of the School of
Social Work. The MSW Field Education Coordinator is responsible for MSW field education
development, coordination, administration, liaison, matching, placement, monitoring, and
evaluation.
Sheri McConnell, MSW, RSW (709) 864-8381 (t) smcconne@mun.ca
(709) 864-7026
1.2.7 Faculty Mentor
The Faculty Mentor is a faculty member in the Memorial University School of Social Work
who provides academic mentorship and supervision of the student for the MSW PATHWAY
and Pathway Scholarship or thesis. The student will select their faculty mentor. If the
student is unable to select a mentor, the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator will
match the student with a mentor. The faculty mentor is responsible to:
Provide guidance and support to the student in developing a PATHWAY learning
contract using the MSW PATHWAY Learning Contract and Progress Report PW1.
Provide ongoing academic guidance and supervision to thesis route students
according to the thesis guidelines at
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_intro.php
Provide feedback to the student. Feedback schedule (e.g., on what and when)
should be specified in the expectations sections of the Learning Contract.
Provide evaluation of the students performance by completing the Mentor
Evaluation of Student Learning- PW2 in collaboration with the student and the
community advisor, where applicable. For a complete description of the process for
evaluation of student learning, refer to Evaluation of Student Learning in Section 7
of this Manual.
Submit the required documentation for the student file to the Graduate Secretary
at the end of the first and last semesters for which the student in enrolled in MSW
PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship as outlined in the Tables 1-6 in Section 2.1.2

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1.2.8 Community Advisor
The student may utilize a Community Advisor. The Community Advisor may be a staff
member of a community agency or organization or a faculty member of another university
who provides support and guidance to the student completing work related to the MSW
PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship. The student will select a community advisor, if
appropriate. The community advisor is responsible to:
Provide guidance and support to the student in completing the product for the
PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship.
Assist in providing facilities, equipment, and materials that their agency/university
has agreed to provide to the student.
Provide feedback to the student.
Provide evaluation of the students performance collaboratively with the student and
the faculty mentor.

2. The Memorial University MSW Program
2.1 The MSW Curriculum
2.1.1 Core Courses
Unless otherwise indicated, all core courses are 3 credit hours.
Course Pre-Requisites/Co-Requisites
SCWK 6000 PATHWAY PATHWAY (mandatory non-credit course)
SCWK 6012 Critical Thinking and
Reflection
Credit may not be obtained for both 6012
and the former 6011.
SCWK 6013 Leadership for Social Justice Prerequisite 6012. Credit may not be
obtained for both 6013 and the former
6540.
SCWK 6014 Leadership in Social Policy
and Programs
Prerequisite 6012. Credit may not be
obtained for both 6014 and the former
6530.
SCWK 6313 Perspectives with Individual
and Families*
Prerequisite/Co-requisite 6012. Credit may
not be obtained for both 6313 and the
former 6312 and 6322.
SCWK 6314 Perspectives with Diverse
Communities*
Prerequisite 6012. Credit may not be
obtained for both 6314 and the former
6320.
SCWK 6315 Perspectives with Groups* Prerequisite 6012. Credit may not be
obtained for both 6315 and the former
6332

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Course Pre-Requisites/Co-Requisites
SCWK 6413 Research Theory, Design,
and Analysis
Prerequisite/Co-requisite for 6012. Credit
may not be obtained for both 6413 and the
former 6412 and 6422.
SCWK 6417 Pathway Scholarship Following completion of all other program
components. Credit may not be obtained
for 6417 and the former 6432 and 6442.
SCWK 6917 Field Internship Prerequisites 6012; 6013; 6014; 6313 and
6413 and Prerequisites/Co-requisites 6314
and 6315. * Credit may not be obtained for
6917 and the former 6912.
*Thesis route students must complete SCWK 6313 and one of either SCWK 6314 or
6315.
2.1.2.Program of Study
Students may choose to complete either a course route or a thesis route. Thesis route
students must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours prior to submission of their thesis.
Course route students must complete a minimum of 27 credit hours prior to submission of
their Pathway Scholarship.
Students may choose to complete the MSW Program on a full time basis over three
semesters or on a part time basis over six or nine semesters. New students should consult
with the Graduate Student Services Coordinator about their plan of study. All students
should review their plan of study annually with the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
The following tables outline the timelines and requirements for the various options:
Table 1: Full time (3 semesters) course route students
Table 2: Full time (3 semesters) thesis route students
Table 3: Part time (6 semesters) course route students
Table 4: Part time (6 semesters) thesis route students
Table 5: Part time (9 semesters) course route students
Table 6: Part time (9 semesters) thesis route students


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Table 1. Course Route Option (Full Time 3 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall
Semester
September
December
SCWK 9000
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6012
SCWK 6313 or
SCWK 6315
SCWK 6413
- Pathway Orientation by School of Social Work for
students prior to beginning of Fall Semester.
- Students begin search for mentor prior to Fall
semester.
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of Fall semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using MSW Pathway
Learning Contract and Progress Report PW1.
- Using the completed contract (i.e. MSW Pathway
Learning Contract Progress Report PW1), student
completes end of semester progress report and
forwards it to mentor by the last day of classes.
- Mentor submits learning contract and progress report
#1 to Graduate Secretary for the student file.
Year 1 Winter
Semester
January April


SCWK 6000
SCWK 6013
SCWK 6014
SCWK 6313
or 6314
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship prior to semester
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #2 using PW1 to mentor.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 1 Spring
Semester
May August

SCWK 6000
SCWK 6314 or
6315
6417 Pathway
Scholarship
6917 Field
Internship
- Students register for Spring Courses, including
PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship (see university
calendar for registration dates).
- By the final week of Spring Semester, student submits
Pathway Progress Report #3 using PW1, Pathway
Scholarship product, 120 word Abstract and completes
formal presentation as the final requirements of MSW
Program.
- Mentor must view the presentation, either by
attending in person, by using technology (e.g. Skype)
to view it live from a distance, or by having the
student send a video of the presentation, which will be
included in the students file.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 and forwards it to the student
and the Graduate Secretary, along with the 3
rd
and
final Progress Report, Pathway Scholarship product,
120 word Abstract for the student file and video of
formal presentation.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and forwards it to the mentor and
the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
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Table 2. Thesis Route Option (Full Time 3 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall
Semester
September
December
SCWK 9000
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6012
SCWK 6313 or
6315*
SCWK 6413
- Pathway Orientation by School of Social Work for
students prior to beginning of Fall semester.
- Students begin search for mentor who is thesis
supervisor prior to Fall registration.
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of Fall semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using MSW Pathway
Learning Contract and Progress Report PW1.
- Mentor/supervisor submits learning contract to
Graduate Secretary for the student file.
- Students should consult thesis guidelines at
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_i
ntro.php
Year 1 Winter
Semester
May August

SCWK 6000
SCWK 6013
SCWK 6014
SCWK 6313
or 6314*
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Student works with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 1 Spring
Semester
May August

SCWK 6000
SCWK 6917
Field
Internship
Thesis
- Register for Spring courses, including PATHWAY (see
university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits a PATHWAY
progress report using PW1.
- All program requirements must be completed prior to
submission of thesis.
- Full time students may require an additional
semester(s) to complete the thesis. Students should
discuss time frame with their mentor/supervisor.
- If additional time is required the student should
complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf
- Student should consult:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/masters_examinations.pdf
for examination procedures.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 and forwards it to the student
and the Graduate Secretary.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and forwards it to the mentor and
the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
*Thesis route students must complete SCWK 6313 and one of either SCWK 6314 or 6315.

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Table 3. Course Route Option (Part Time 6 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall
September
December
SCWK 9000
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6012
One of SCWK
6013/6313/
6315/6413

- Pathway Orientation School of Social Work for
students prior to beginning of Fall semester.
- Students begin search for mentor prior to Fall
semester, if possible.
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of Fall semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using MSW Pathway
Learning Contract and Progress Report PW1.
- Using the completed contract (i.e. MSW Pathway
Learning Contract Progress Report PW1), student
completes end of semester progress report and
forwards it to mentor by the last day of classes.
- Mentor submits learning contract and progress report
#1 to Graduate Secretary for the student file.
Year 1 Winter
Semester
January April

SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #2 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 1 Spring
Semester
May August

SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6014/6314/
6315
- Students register for Spring courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #3 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 2 Fall
Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6013/6313/
6315/6413*
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
prior to semester (see university calendar for
registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #4 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 2 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6917*
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, submit PATHWAY progress
report #5 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.

11

Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 2 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6417*
- Students register for Spring courses, including
PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship (see university
calendar for registration dates).
- By the final week of Spring semester, student submits
Pathway progress report #6 using PW1, Pathway
Scholarship product, 120 word Abstract and completes
formal presentation as the final requirements of MSW
Program.
- Mentor must view the presentation, either by
attending in person, by using technology (e.g. Skype)
to view it live from a distance, or by having the
student send a video of the presentation, which will be
included in the students file.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 and forwards it to the student
and the Graduate Secretary, along with the 3
rd
and
final Progress Report, Pathway Scholarship product,
120 word Abstract for the student file and video of
formal presentation.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and forwards it to the mentor and
the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
*The completion of courses in each semester may vary depending on the students plan for
completion.

Table 4. Thesis Route Option (Part Time 6 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 9000
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6012
One of SCWK
6013/6313*/
6315*/6413
- Pathway Orientation by School of Social Work for
students prior to beginning of Fall semester.
- Students begin search for mentor who is thesis
supervisor prior to Fall registration.
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of Fall semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using PW1.
- Mentor/supervisor submits learning contract to
Graduate Secretary for the student file.
- Students should consult thesis guidelines at
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_i
ntro.php

12

Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 1 Spring
May August
SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6014/6314*/
6315*
- Students register for Spring courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis.
- Complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf
Year 2 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
Two of SCWK
6313/6315*/
6413
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
prior to semester (see university calendar for
registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 2 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6917
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 2 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6417
- Students register for Spring courses, including
PATHWAY (see university calendar for registration
dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits a PATHWAY
progress report using PW1. The Mentor provides the
report to the Graduate Secretary for the student file.
- All program requirements must be completed prior to
submission of thesis.
- Students may require an additional semester(s) to
complete the thesis. Students should discuss time
frame with their mentor/supervisor.
- If additional time is required the student should
complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory _Report.pdf
- Student should consult:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/masters_examinations.pdf
for examination procedures.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 when thesis is completed and
forwards it to the student and the Graduate Secretary.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and submits it to the mentor and
Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
*Thesis route students must complete SCWK 6313 and one of the either SCWK 6314 or 6315.
13

Table 5. Course Route Option (Part Time 9 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 9000
SCWK 6012
- Students register for Fall courses (see university
calendar for August registration dates). Students do
not register for PATHWAY, SCWK 6000, until their
fourth semester.
Year 1 Winter
Semester
January April
One of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses (see university
calendar for November registration dates).
Year 1 Spring
Semester
May August
One of SCWK
6014/6314/
6315
- Students register for Spring courses (see university
calendar for registration dates).
Year 2 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
(PATHWAY)
One of SCWK
6013/6313/
6315/6413
- Pathway Orientation by School of Social Work for
students prior to beginning of Fall semester.
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
prior to semester (see university calendar for
registration dates).
- Final week of Fall Semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using MSW Pathway
Learning Contract and Progress Report PW1.
- Using the completed contract (i.e. MSW Pathway
Learning Contract Progress Report PW1), student
completes end of semester progress report and
forwards this to mentor by the last day of classes.
- Mentor submits learning contract and progress report
#1 to Graduate Secretary for the student file.
Year 2 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #2 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 2 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6014/6314/
6315
- Students register for Spring courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #3 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.

14

Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 3 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6013/6313/
6315/6413
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
prior to semester (see university calendar for
registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #4 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 3 Winter
Semester
January - April
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6917
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for November registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits PATHWAY
progress report #5 using PW1.
- NOTE: This Progress Report not submitted to the
Graduate Secretary.
Year 3 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6417
- Students register for Spring courses, including
PATHWAY (see university calendar for registration
dates).
- By the final week of Spring semester, student submits
Pathway progress report #6 using PW1, Pathway
Scholarship product, 120 word Abstract and completes
formal presentation as the final requirements of MSW
Program.
- Mentor must view the presentation, either by
attending in person, by using technology (e.g. Skype)
to view it live from a distance, or by having the
student send a video of the presentation, which will be
included in the students file.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 and forwards it to the student
and the Graduate Secretary, along with the 3
rd
and
final Progress Report, Pathway Scholarship product,
120 word Abstract for the student file and video of
formal presentation.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and forwards it to the mentor and
the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.


15

Table 6. Thesis Route Option (Part Time 9 semesters)
Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 1 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6012 - Thesis students should begin search for mentor who is
thesis supervisor when they commence the program.
- Students register for Fall courses (see university
calendar for registration dates).
- Final week of semester, student and mentor sign
PATHWAY learning contract using PW1.
- Mentor/supervisor submits learning contract to
Graduate Secretary for the student file.
- Students should consult thesis guidelines at:
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_i
ntro.php
Year 1 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 1 Spring
Semester
May August
One of SCWK
6014/6314/
6315
- Students register for Spring courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis.
- Complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf
Year 2 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6313/6315*/
6413
- Students register for Fall courses (see university
calendar for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 2 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6013/6014/
6313/6314/
6413
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY (see university calendar for registration
dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 2 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
One of SCWK
6014/6314 or
6315*
- Students register for Spring courses including
PATHWAY prior to semester (see university calendar
for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis.
- Complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf

16

Year/Term Social Work
Courses
Administrative Requirements
Year 3 Fall Semester
September
December
SCWK 6000
SCWK 6917
- Students register for Fall courses including PATHWAY
(see university calendar for registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 3 Winter
Semester
January April
SCWK 6000
Thesis
- Students register for Winter courses including
PATHWAY (see university calendar for November
registration dates).
- Students work with mentor to complete thesis. No
reporting is required.
Year 3 Spring
Semester
May August
SCWK 6000
Thesis
- Students register for Spring courses, including
PATHWAY (see university calendar for registration
dates).
- Final week of semester, student submits a PATHWAY
progress report using PW1. The Mentor provides the
report to the Graduate Secretary for the student file.
- All program requirements must be completed prior to
submission of thesis.
- Students may require an additional semester(s) to
complete the thesis. Students should discuss time
frame with their mentor/supervisor.
- If additional time is required the student should
complete the Graduate Student Annual Progress and
Supervisory Report found at:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf
- Student should consult:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/masters_examinations.pdf
for examination procedures.
- The mentor completes the Mentor Evaluation of
Student Learning PW2 when thesis is completed and
forwards it to the student and the Graduate Secretary.
- Student completes the Student Evaluation of Pathway
Scholarship PW3 and forwards it to the mentor and
the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
*Thesis route students must complete SCWK 6313 and one of the either SCWK 6314 or
6315.

17

2.1.3.Program Format
Courses are offered in the following formats:
SCWK 6012,6013, and 6014 are offered by distance delivery (not in a regular
classroom format);
SCWK 6313, 6314, and 6315 are offered by on-campus institute consisting of 36
hours of classroom instruction for each course. These courses also include home-
study, conference calling, and Internet components scheduled prior to and/or
following the institute. Students must be available on a full time basis during the
institute portion of these courses.
SCWK 6917 can be completed in St. Johns or in the students home community,
when appropriate supervision is available.
SCWK 6000 (PATHWAY) and 6417 (Pathway Scholarship) can be completed in St.
Johns or in the students home community.

3. Memorial University PATHWAY
3.1 MSW PATHWAY Description
PATHWAY (SCWK 6000) is a mandatory non-credit course designed to provide
students an opportunity to pursue a specific, concentrated, specialized or expert
area of practice, research, scholarly interests, or career related path. The student
chooses the topic area. PATHWAY is completed under the guidance and supervision
of an academic mentor, a faculty member of Memorial University School of Social
Work chosen by the student. When possible, the students interests may be
integrated into the curriculum-based assignments. The work culminates in a
tangible, innovative and creative scholarly product designed to fulfil the credit
course requirements for Pathway Scholarship (SCWK 6417).
PATHWAY involves a mentoring relationship in which a faculty member facilitates
student learning in a specific area of interest (ie. research, education, practice,
advocacy, etc.) It is a collaborative partnership between students and faculty and
is an opportunity for students to enrich their educational experience.
PATHWAY is designed to be flexible and to encourage latitude with respect to area
of interest, manner of learning, and learning objectives. When a student decides
upon their area of interest, they should begin to speak with faculty members.
Ideally, the students area of interest will coincide with the ongoing research of a
faculty member. However, this is will often not be possible. Therefore, the student
should consider which faculty member would make the best match their mentoring
18

needs. Students may wish to consider the following: ability to establish a
comfortable working relationship with the mentor; their knowledge of research (ie.
Knowledge of methodology, analytical strategy, facultys broad research interest);
We remind you that it is the student who assumes the leadership role in regards to
completing their learning goals and objectives and choosing their Pathway
Scholarship product. The role of the potential mentor is to help the students
determine if the project is feasible. When the mentoring relationship is formalized,
the mentor provides support, guidance, and encouragement to assist the student to
realize their learning goals and objectives.
3.2 Finding A Mentor
Students are responsible for selecting their faculty mentor.
To assist in selecting a mentor, students should consult the Schools website
for information concerning faculty members areas of interest in social work
practice and research.
Students may contact faculty directly by email, telephone or in-person to
discuss establishing a mentoring relationship.
The mentor relationship is established when the student/faculty have reached
an agreement in principle regarding the scholarship product and expectations.
Full-time students begin a search for their mentor prior to registration for Fall
semester which occurs in early August.
Part time students completing the program in six semesters begin a search
for their mentor prior to registration for Fall semester which occurs in early
August, if possible.
Part-time students completing the program in nine semesters begin a search
for their mentor prior to registration for their fourth semester which is
normally the Fall semester of their second year.
Potential mentors are not to permitted to solicit students.
During meetings with students, potential mentors may suggest possible
projects or alternatives to the students ideas.
During or shortly after the meeting, the student and the potential mentor
should communicate to one another whether or not a mentoring relationship
is possible.
Students may wish to meet with more than one potential mentor. Schedule
your meetings as close together as possible.
A student who is unable to establish a mentoring relationship should contact
the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator who will assist in the process.
19

Students should report any difficulties to the PATHWAY/ Pathway Scholarship
/Coordinator.

3.3 Student-Mentor Relationship and Expectations
It is expected that the students and mentors will have 10-12 hours of contact
during PATHWAY.
On average full time students will meet with their mentors for four hours per
semester. Part time students should meet with their mentors on average of
two hours each semester.
Meetings may be in person, by telephone, teleconferencing or e-
conferencing. E-mail correspondence should not take the place of face-to-
face, telephone or virtual meetings. Efforts should be made to schedule face
to face meetings between students and mentors during the institutes when
students are on campus;
Mentors may plan meetings with multiple students if deemed to be of benefit
to the students and the mentor.
Prior to formalizing mentor-student relationships, there should be a
preliminary understanding as to the scholarship product, expectations of one
another, and timeline.
Mentors and students are mutually responsible for ensuring that a student
and mentor have a constructive working relationship and for fostering an
environment conducive to scholarly discussion.
In determining the scholarship product, students and mentors may wish to
discuss work that might best fit with the students career objectives,
aspirations, and interests.
3.4. Resolution Process
Students who have concerns or experience problems with a mentor, community
advisor or the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship process should:
1. Discuss their concerns with the mentor or community advisor in an effort to
resolve the matter.
2. If the discussion with the mentor or community advisor does not result in a
resolution, consult with the Coordinator of PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship.
3. If there are concerns after the consultation with the Coordinator, the student
must submit their concerns in writing to the Associate Dean for Graduate
Studies who will either:
20

meet with the faculty member to discuss the student concerns, and/or,
mediate a discussion between the student and mentor or community
advisor to seek a resolution, and/or,
refer the students written complaint to the Dean of the School of Social
Work.
3.5 Requesting a Change of Mentor
A request for a change of mentor must be submitted to the PATHWAY/ Pathway
Scholarship Coordinator in the form of an email outlining the reasons for change. If
the student wishes to proceed following consultation with the Coordinator, the
student should discuss with their mentor that they will be requesting a change. The
students will work with the Coordinator to seek out an alternative mentor. The
student should expect that the new mentor will want to speak with the previous
mentor regarding transfer of the learning contract. When a mentor has been found
the student will re-negotiate the learning contract with the new mentor. The
student must submit a Change of Program form to the Graduate Secretary to
change their mentor. (The form is found at
http://www.mun.ca/sgs/ChangeProgram.pdf).
3.6 Developing a Program of Scholarship
The student and the mentor shall discuss and finalize the learning goals for
PATHWAY and identify the activities/tasks involved. The activities should be:
reflective of a scholarly focus.
cumulative in nature.
reasonable given the time expectations for PATHWAY. It is suggested that full
time students dedicate a minimum of 20 hours per semester and part time
students, a minimum of 10 hours a semester to PATHWAY. Student must
complete a minimum of 60 hours of work to meet the requirements of
PATHWAY.
ultimately building toward a completed Pathway Scholarship product that,
typically, will be submitted to the School for dissemination on their Website.
reflective of the students long term career goals to the degree that is
possible.

21

3.7. PATHWAY Learning Goals
It is expected that the student will:
explore a particular area of research and or/practice interest with evidence of
scope and depth.
produce written and oral evidence of comprehension in their selected area of
interest.
contextualize their area of interest, demonstrating critical thinking and
advanced understanding of philosophical orientations, theoretical
underpinnings, and/or practice implications.
effectively engage in scholarly discussions and debate with peers and faculty.
3.8. Completion of PATHWAY Learning Contract
Students are required to submit a PATHWAY learning contract to their mentor by
the end of the final week of the first semester in which they are enrolled in
PATHWAY using the MSW Learning Contract and Progress Report (See Appendix
PW1). This includes both course route and thesis route students.
The learning contract:
includes the students area of interest for PATHWAY (what the student hopes
to accomplish in this program); statement of the students current
knowledge and skills; description of anticipated PATHWAY Scholarship
product; learning goals; an action plan for each goal; and proposed list of
readings.
provides an opportunity for the mentor and the student to outline their
expectations of each other and to include any additional comments.
requires the student to record the dates and number of hours for meetings
with the mentor, and
requires the student to record the number of hours they spent in completing
PATHWAY in each semester.
Ideally, the contact (and the student and mentors agenda) should contain a
schedule for meetings with mentor. However, the mentor and student may choose
another manner of planning meetings (e.g. setting a time for the next meeting at
the end of every meeting).
Questions about the completion of learning contract using the MSW Learning
Contract and Progress Report (See Appendix PW-1) should be directed to the
mentor or the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator.
22

3.9. Completion of PATHWAY Progress Report
Full time and part time course route students are required to submit an end of
semester progress report to the mentor on the last day of classes of each semester
in which they are registered for SCWK 6000. The MSW Learning Contract and
Progress Report (See Appendix PW-1) is designed to be used to complete both the
learning contract and the end of semester progress reports. This document has
guidelines to assist the student in using the document to complete the end of
semester progress reports.
In the final progress report, the student must demonstrate that they have
completed 150 hours of work, the sum of 60 hours for PATHWAY and 90 hours for
Pathway Scholarship. If there are any issues with the number of hours completed,
the mentor and the student shall consult the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship
Coordinator.
Questions about the completion of the end of semester progress report using the
MSW Learning Contract and Progress Report (See Appendix PW1) should be
directed to the mentor or the Pathway/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator.
Thesis route students are required to complete the Graduate Student Annual
Progress and Supervisory Report found at:
https://www.mun.ca/sgs/Supervisory_Report.pdf
Thesis route students should consult the university calendar for thesis guidelines
at: http://www.mun.ca/sgs/go/guid_policies/guidelines_intro.php
3.10. MSW PATHWAY Credit Hours
The student will not receive any credit hours for completion of PATHWAY (SCWK
6000). It is a mandatory non-credit course.
3.11. Grading for PATHWAY (SCWK 6000)
A grade of NC (No grade expected) will be awarded in all semesters of the course
prior to the final semester. A final grade of Pass or Fail will be awarded in the final
semester of the course reflecting the entire PATHWAY trajectory (1 year for full
time students and 2 years for part-time students). A passing grade reflects depth
of scholarship, integration of learning; critical thinking, and evidence of
comprehension of the topic. A grade of Pass indicates that performance meets
23

expectations; Fail indicates unsatisfactory performance; and Incomplete indicates a
pending final grade.

4. The Memorial University MSW PATHWAY Scholarship
4.1. MSW Pathway Scholarship Description
PATHWAY (SCWK 6000) is the foundation for the completion of Pathway
Scholarship (SCWK 6417). To fulfil the expectations of SCWK 6417, the student
produces a scholarly product. This work may be a manuscript for publication;
research proposal with preparation of a human subjects review, comprehensive
literature review, training manual, data collection and /or analysis, research report,
professional development tool, video, or other types of scholarly work as negotiated
between students and their mentors.
In addition to submitting their final product for Pathway Scholarship, students are
expected to:

prepare and submit a 120 word abstract describing their Pathway
Scholarship. The abstract must be prepared using APA guidelines;
make a formal presentation of their scholarly work to their mentor (when
location of student and mentor or technology permits, and failing that,
provide an audio-visual recording of the presentation to their mentor), peers,
colleagues; and interested others.
4.2. Expectations for MSW Pathway Scholarship Product
Please note that the term product might refer to one or several items. It is
expected that the Pathway Scholarship product, abstract, and presentation will
demonstrate:
relevance to social work:
evidence of analytical and critical thinking skills;
professional and scholarly writing;
leadership in presenting their work and thinking to others.
The student is expected to be the principal author/creator of the Pathway
Scholarship product. The product should be ready for distribution. The Pathway
Scholarship product can be a part of a larger project, but the students product
24

should be sufficiently delineated from this larger project that it may be distributed
as a separate entity. For example, the student may submit a completed section of a
larger paper or a preliminary report of an ongoing study.
Any special considerations regarding final products (e.g., non distribution) should
be submitted in writing to the PATHWAY/Pathway Coordinator prior to registering
for Pathway Scholarship. The request will be evaluated by a committee consisting
of the PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship Coordinator, the Associate Dean of Graduate
Studies and Scholarship, and the Graduate Officer (MSW Program), if possible.
4.3. Pre-requisite Courses
Pathway Scholarship is the final requirement to be completed by the student in the
MSW program. All other requirements must be completed before submitting
Pathway Scholarship.
4.4. MSW Pathway Scholarship Credit Hours
The Student will receive three credit hours for completion of Pathway Scholarship
(SCWK 6417).
4.5. MSW Pathway Scholarship Hours
Each student will be expected to complete a minimum of 90 hours of research,
reading, and writing to fulfil the requirements of MSW Pathway Scholarship.
4.6. Grading for MSW Pathway Scholarship
The MSW Pathway Scholarship is graded on a Pass / Fail / Incomplete basis. A
grade of Pass indicates that performance meets expectations; Fail indicates
unsatisfactory performance; and Incomplete indicates a pending final grade.

Information pertaining to the Evaluation of Graduate
Students is available in the School of Graduate Studies,
General Regulations at
www.mun.ca/regoff/calendar/sectionNo=GRAD-
0015#GRAD-0022



25

5. Professional Standards, Ethics and Academic Integrity
All students conducting research or research-like activities (including, but not
limited to group or individual counselling/therapy, interviewing, audio recording,
and videotaping) involving human subjects should complete application for ethics
review. The form and additional information is located at:
http://www.mun.ca/research /ethics/humans/icehr/applications/
Students should be familiar with relevant academic and professional standards and
guidelines including:
http://www.mun.ca/research/ethics/humans/icehr/application-guidelines.php
If there are any questions, students and mentors should consult Gail Wideman at
gwideman@mun.ca. Other resources include:

MSW Student Handbook at:
http://www.mun.ca/socwrk/master/MSWStudent_Handbook_2011.wpd_final.
pdf;
Memorial University Calendar (http://www.mun.ca/regoff/calendar/)
CASW Code of Ethics (www.casw-acts.ca/ in the Practice section);
CASW Guidelines for Ethical Conduct (www.casw-acts.ca/ in the Practice
section); and
Memorial University Ethics for Research
www.mun.ca/research/researchers/ethics.php.
In the course of a graduate degree program, the student is expected to learn those
principles which constitute proper academic behaviour. Violations are listed in the
School of Graduate Studies General Regulations, Academic Dishonesty. See
Section 2.4.12.2 Academic Dishonesty: Offences at
http://www.mun.ca/regoff/calendar/sectionNo=GRAD-0015.
MSW PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship activities must comply with the university
calendar, social work values, the CASW Code of Ethics, and the CASW Guidelines
for Ethical Conduct. When the Students MSW Pathway Scholarship is linked to an
existing research project, it is assumed that the principle investigator has obtained
or will obtain ethical approval from the appropriate body (e.g., ICEHR, HIC).

26

6. Coverage for the Student
6.1. Expenses
The student is responsible for personal expenses incurred in completing the
Pathway Scholarship. The student may negotiate with an agency, organization, and
/or university to assist with expenses incurred in relation to the Pathway
Scholarship product (e.g., office supplies, computer software, travel,
accommodations). Any agreement for support should be be documented in writing
between the student and the organization involved.
6.2. Liability Insurance
The School agrees to maintain sufficient liability insurance to indemnify and save
harmless from all loss, cost, expense, judgement, or damage on account of injury
or damage to persons or property, including death, in any way caused by the
negligence or wilful act of the School, its servants, agents, students, or employees
related to or arising from the MSW Pathway Scholarship, together with all legal
costs and expenses incurred in defending any legal action pertaining to the above.
6.3. Workers Compensation Coverage
The student participating in the MSW Pathway Scholarship is entitled to Workers
Compensation Coverage from the Workplace Health, Safety, and Compensation
Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador. The student is covered as a worker of
the Department of Education, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, under
Section 42 of the Workplace Health, Safety, and Compensation Act.
6.4. Sexual Harassment
Like most progressive educational institutions, Memorial University has a Sexual
Harassment Policy and is committed to the creation of a campus environment that
is respectful and inclusive - and thus free of sexual harassment.
In the event of harassment, the Student may seek the advice
and support of Sexual Harassment Officer, who can be contacted
via telephone at (709) 864-2015 or via email at
sexualharassment@mun.ca. All consultations are confidential -
the complaint is not acted upon unless, or until, the Student
instructs the Advisor to use university policy to resolve it.



27

It is important for the Student to become familiar with the University Wide
Procedures for Sexual Harassment Complaints.
For further information, please refer to the Memorial University
University Wide Procedures for Sexual Harassment Complaints,
2001. The policy is available through the Office of Sexual
Harassment at www.mun.ca/sexualharassment/.




7. Evaluation
7.1. Evaluation of Student Learning
The student and the faculty mentor are expected to collaborate in the completion of
the learning contract which will provide the basis for review and evaluation of
student learning. This will be an on- going process for the student and faculty
mentor, and the community advisor if applicable. The student will complete end of
semester progress reports- see MSW Pathway Learning Contract & Progress Report-
Appendix PW1 to provide a summary of progress to date, including new or revised
goals. The faculty mentor will review the reports.
7.2. Student Evaluation of MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship
Upon completion of the MSW PATHWAY and Pathway Scholarship, the student is
requested to complete a Student Evaluation of Pathway Scholarship (Appendix
PW3) and submit it to the mentor and the Graduate Student Services Coordinator.
Your evaluation will be used to make improvements in the PATHWAY/Pathway
Scholarship Program. Students will not be identified in any way in the use of this
information.
The student is asked to evaluate her/his MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship in
reference to:
opportunities to increase social work knowledge and skills;
MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship coordination;
MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship mentorship and advising; and
a general evaluation of the MSW PATHWAY/Pathway Scholarship.