To support the transition to ACSW’s new registration management system and registrant portal, all applications will be temporarily closed effective July 16, 2025. Applications are anticipated to re-open later in August.
In the case of exceptional circumstances that require immediate attention, please contact registration@acsw.ab.ca for assistance.
Social work is regulated in Alberta under the Health Professions Act. Registration is mandatory for anyone
- with a recognized social work credential
- practicing within the scope of social work
- with clients located in Alberta
Only registered social workers can identify as a social worker.
Registration is mandatory even when:
- your job title is not social worker
- your job duties do not include counselling
- your employer does not require proof of registration
Scope of Practice
Social workers are required to work within their scope of practice, which is defined by the Health Professions Act.
The practice of social work is defined in the Health Professions Act
In their practice, social workers do one or more of the following:
- enhance or restore the social functioning of individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities by improving developmental, problem-solving and coping capacities of people and systems,
- promote effective and humane systems that provide resources, opportunities and services to people and link people to those systems,
- contribute to the development and improvement of social policy, and
teach, manage and conduct research in the science, techniques and practice of social work, and - provide restricted activities authorized by the regulations.
If your practice involves any of the above, you are active in social work.
Protected titles
Registered social workers can use certain titles as laid out in the Health Professions Act.
As a registered member of the Alberta College of Social Workers, you can use the following titles:
- SW
- RSW
- soc. wkr.
- RCSW: To use the title of registered clinical social worker, registered members must meet additional requirements.
Verification requests
If you need verification of registration or a letter of good standing, log in to the registrant portal and click Verification Request.