Frequently Asked Questions

How do you evaluate competence without hours?

Competence is evaluated through multiple sources of evidence, not time alone. A supervisor can assess readiness for increased autonomy using methods such as:

Direct observation of practice (with appropriate consent where required)

Case review and reflective discussion focused on decision-making, ethics, and risk

Documentation review/audits (records, assessments, plans, notes)

Feedback over time, including whether the supervisee integrates direction and improves

Structured evaluation against role expectations, scope, and relevant standards

This aligns with a competency-based supervision approach: the question is whether the supervisee consistently demonstrates safe, ethical, standards-aligned practice—particularly in higher-risk situations—not simply how many hours have elapsed.

How does ACSW monitor supervision requirements?

ACSW generally monitors supervision compliance through program/registration processes where supervision is a requirement (e.g., provisional progression to general registry, clinical candidate, remediation requirements or conditions), including required forms/attestations, potential audits/reviews and active monitoring.

In broader practice contexts, monitoring is often indirect—through expectations that social workers can demonstrate reasonable efforts, maintain appropriate records, and uphold competence and standards.

How is it decided if I need a refresher course? How is the course chosen?

The need for a refresher course and what course is required will be evaluated on an individual basis by the Professional Practice department. Your field of practice, length of practice, length of absence, and activities while absent from practice are all considered as part of a re-entry to practice assessment.

How should I organize my continuing competence documentation?

Think about what method of organization will be most helpful to your own needs. Some options include a file folder or binder. Some use an electronic filing system. Consider the uses you might have for the material, such as updating your resume or preparing for your annual review.

I am volunteering. Do I need professional liability insurance?

Yes. All practicing RSWs must have professional liability coverage. This is a registration requirement. Registrants obtain their own professional liability insurance policy and ACSW accepts organizational/employer provided professional liability insurance coverage if it meets ACSW’s requirements.

I completed a new social work degree. How do I update my social work credential with the ACSW?

First, you submit a request with your education institution to provide an official transcript for the completed credential. Second, the official transcript must be sent directly to ACSW from the educational institution. Please submit official transcripts to registration@acsw.ab.ca . Transcripts provided directly from you will not be accepted as official credential verification for registration. Transcripts must indicate that the social work program is complete and that the diploma/degree is granted.

I have a social work degree. Can I call myself a social worker?

The Health Professions Act and the Social Workers Profession Regulation sets out the protected titles for the profession of social work in Alberta. Only registered social workers can use the protected title of social worker and all other professional protected titles in Alberta.

If you have a social work education credential, are qualified and are employed in the scope of social work practice in Alberta, registration is mandatory.

I have been hired into a role within the scope of social work practice. I have been told supervision will be provided. How do I know if the supervisor meets the ACSW requirements and supervision will be accepted by the ACSW?

Confirm (and document) that:

The supervisor is appropriately registered/in good standing (and holds required practice enhancements if supervising restricted activities. This can be confirmed on the public directory

The supervision is practice supervision (includes evaluation + direction over services), not just administrative oversight

The supervisor has scope-aligned competence in the practice area and supervision competence (training/experience)

There is a supervision plan/contract: purpose, methods, frequency, documentation, evaluation, escalation, and roles (especially if there are dual roles)

Supervision records are kept (supervision log, evaluations shared as required)

I have completed my supervised practice hours. What’s next?

A supervisor reference form must be submitted through the registrant portal to verify you have completed the required hours of supervised practice. The supervisor of record must attest to, or confirm, your safe and competent practice under their supervision.

The supervisor reference form is available in the registrant portal. You can access the form and send it to your supervisor to complete. Your supervisor submits the completed form to ACSW through the portal. Once your supervisor reference has been submitted, it will be processed in the order received. You can review the status of any supervisor references through the registrant portal. If your supervisor is a registered social worker in a different jurisdiction, please contact the Registration department.

I have just graduated, and my official transcripts are not available yet. What else can I use to provide evidence of my completed social work credential?

We will accept a letter issued by the educational institution that states you have completed all requirements for your social work program and provides a conferral date. This is often provided by the registrar’s office when all graduation requirements have been met. Official transcripts must be submitted during your first year of registration.

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