Latest News

Updated Details About the Important Changes to the Clinical Program and Application Process

Posted on
There are changes coming to the clinical practice enhancement application process and qualifying criteria for the program. What is changing? The program's qualifying criteria and application process are being updated. As part of this change, the current pre-stream application pathway will be phased out. The goal of this change is to streamline the application process while ensuring social workers provide...

Webinar – Registration with ACSW: Rights and Responsibilities

Posted on
Join us for ACSW's registration presentation! ACSW staff will discuss ACSW's role and function, registration process, Competence Program, annual requirements, provisional registration and supervision requirements. Please choose the webinar time that best suits your schedule, and register using one of the links below. October 16, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. or November 20, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00...

NEW – ACSW Peer Circles

Posted on
What Are Peer Circles? Peer Circles are a supportive, group-based learning activity designed for registered social workers (RSWs) in Alberta. Led by trained facilitators, each session presents participants with a case for discussion. These cases provide opportunities to: Explore ethical issues and apply decision-making frameworks. Share knowledge and collaborate on applying practice standards in complex scenarios. Connect with peers across...

Bill 13 – Regulated Professions Neutrality Act (RPNA)

Posted on
Bill 13, the Regulated Professions Neutrality Act (RPNA) was introduced by the government on November 20, 2025 and received royal assent on December 11, 2025. The RPNA will come into force on August 10, 2027. It will apply to all regulated professions in Alberta under the Health Professions Act, and include other occupations and skilled trades. The legislation will require...

Communique for Insurers & Third Parties

Posted on
Re: Decommission of the separate RCSW number ACSW is taking action to strengthen public protection by demonstrating that regulatory practices are transparent, consistent and fair as we work to ensure that social workers provide safe, ethical and competent services to Albertans. Please be advised that the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) will decommission and discontinue issuance of the separate...

ACSW 2025 Annual Report

Posted on
ACSW’s 2025 Annual Report is now available. As directed by the Health Professions Act, regulatory colleges must submit an annual report of yearly activities. This report details how ACSW is serving and protecting the public interest by ensuring that social workers provide safe, ethical and competent services to Albertans. Click here to view our 2025 Annual Report.

NEW – Pre-Authorized Debit Program

Posted on
ACSW has expanded payment options for registrants! The new pre-authorized debit (PAD) program, allows registrants to complete payment of the registration renewal fee in advance of their practice permit expiration, using pre-authorized automatic withdrawals from their bank account. For PAD subscribers, this new, secure, payment option divides registration renewal fees into four equal monthly payments, which are automatically withdrawn four...

Competence Program Update

Posted on
The new Competence Program opened on January 1, 2026 for all registered social workers. Registered social workers are regulated health professionals who must show that they’re maintaining and enhancing their competence throughout their careers; participation in the Competence Program is a mandatory requirement of registration. Over the autumn of 2025, ACSW offered a number of webinars to support registrants through...

NEW – ACSW E-Practice Registry

Posted on
ACSW is committed to upholding our mandate of public protection through the ongoing professional regulation of social workers. We are launching a new e-practice registry for registered social workers registered in other provinces within Canada or the USA, to provide social work services to Albertans through virtual and electronic platforms. This registry will protect Albertans by providing transparent information about...

Changes to ACSW’s Continuing Competence Program! Join us to learn more.

Posted on
The new Competence Program opened on January 1, 2026 for all registered social workers. Registered social workers are regulated health professionals who must show that they're maintaining and enhancing their competence throughout their careers; participation in the competence program is a mandatory requirement of registration. Please choose the webinar time that best suits your schedule, and register using one of...