Registered Social Worker CE Requirements in Alberta
This page summarizes the current CE requirements for the Registered Social Worker license in Alberta — renewal model, mandated topics, live/interactive rules, and home-study limits — with links to the official regulator.
Registered Social Worker
- Continuing Education — 15 hMinimum 15 of the 40 credits must be Continuing Education (courses, workshops, formal learning). At least one goal and associated activity required in this category.
- Professional Engagement — 15 hMinimum 15 of the 40 credits must be Professional Engagement (e.g., committee/volunteer work, mentoring, presenting, research). At least one goal and associated activity required in this category.
- Flexible allocation — 10 hThe remaining 10 credits may be allocated to either Continuing Education or Professional Engagement at the registrant's discretion.
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How many CE hours does a Registered Social Worker need in Alberta?
A Registered Social Worker must complete 40 CE / continuing-education hours every 1 years in Alberta.
Are there required CE topics for Registered Social Worker in Alberta?
Yes. Alberta requires the following CE topics for Registered Social Worker: Continuing Education (15 h); Professional Engagement (15 h); Flexible allocation (10 h).
Can Registered Social Worker CE be completed online in Alberta?
Generally yes — Alberta does not require live or interactive hours for Registered Social Worker, so approved online / home-study CE can typically satisfy the requirement. Home-study note: No explicit cap on self-directed vs. live/interactive learning. Credits are earned across the Continuing Education and Professional Engagement categories; format is at the registrant's discretion within category minimums..
What else should Registered Social Worker renewals know in Alberta?
Per the ACSW Competence Program Guide (2026), registrants must complete a minimum of 40 continuing competence credits during each registration year, which runs on the calendar year (January-December). A professional development plan (goals + activities with start dates, hours, and expected impact) must be established by February 1 annually; the plan may be updated through the year; final evaluation/reflection is due December 31. No specific mandatory subject topics (e.g., ethics or Indigenous/cultural competency) are prescribed as separate required hours in the guide.