ACSW Continuing Competence Program (2026)

If you haven’t already heard, the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) has introduced substantial updates to its Continuing Competence Program that take effect in January 2026.

Recognizing that these adjustments represent a significant shift in how Alberta social workers maintain and demonstrate professional competency under this program, this article aims to summarize the new requirements to help you navigate the updated process and requirements as outlined by ACSW.

Please note: This article is not written on behalf of, nor reviewed, approved, or endorsed by ACSW. See the full disclaimers at the end.

Overview of ACSW Continuing Competence Program Updates

As there are several key changes being introduced in the ACSW Continuing Competence Program (CCP). This section outlines the main updates and what is expected of social workers under each, according to the ACSW.

1. New Annual ACSW Continuing Competence Cycle (For Some Registrants)

Previously, a registrant’s continuing competence program cycle matched their registration renewal date (e.g., April to March if renewing in April). Starting 2026, all registrants will follow a single cycle from January to December, regardless of the individual’s renewal date. If you’re renewal date is January every year (like mine), you’ll see no change in your continuing competence program cycle. According to ACSW, this adjustment is intended to separate the annual registration process from the CCP (ACSW, 2025, December 8).

2. Universal Credit Requirement

Under the prior program, credit requirements varied by classification. For instance, those on the clinical registry needed 50 credit hours annually, while the general registry required 40. With the new program, all ACSW members — regardless of employment status or registry classification — must complete 40 credits per year where one credit equals one hour of a competency activity.

For registrants who require an accommodation or exemption from the 40 credit hour requirement, the ACSW now has an Accommodation and Exception Policy. Registrants seeking an accommodation or exemption must apply for such accommodation under this policy.

3. Elimination of Carry-Over Credits

Previously, some registrants relied on carrying over credits from year-to-year. This will no longer be permitted under the new CCP. While 2026 will serve as a transition period (allowing previous carry-over credits to be used), beginning in 2027, carry-over credits will be discontinued. As a result, planning professional development activities within each calendar year is essential to meet requirements.

4. Two Simplified Categories

The former Category A, B, and C credit system has been replaced by two clear categories: Continuing Education and Professional Engagement.

5. Category Breakdown Differences

With the new CCP categories, the minimum credit hour requirements have also changed. Registrants must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours in both Continuing Education and Professional Engagement. The remaining 10 hours can be allocated to either category, at the registrant’s discretion. For a detailed review, check out my blog: ACSW Category A Credits Replaced: Interpretive Review of the New ACSW’s Credit Hour Requirements.

Documentation Requirements

January Each Year

Under the previous CCP, registrants submitted credit hours annually and maintained a professional portfolio with their learning plan and goals. The new CCP retains the portfolio requirement, but the contents have shifted slightly. Now, registrants must complete and submit an Annual Competence Update and Professional Development Plan each January via the ACSW registrant portal, with a submission deadline of January 31 each year.

Additionally, registrants are required to download a Reflection Practice Worksheet and a Wellness Reflection Worksheet to keep in their professional portfolio. These worksheets are not required to be uploaded at completion but must be retained in your professional portfolio in case of a future audit (ACSW, 2025, December 8).

December Each Year

Each December, registrants must complete a reflection and evaluation. Under the new CCP, credit hours are no longer submitted through the platform; instead, documentation is maintained in the registrant’s professional portfolio and you’ll be required to sign a declaration at renewal indicating that you’ve completed the CCP requirements (ACSW, 2025, December 8).

Conclusion

While adapting to new processes can be challenging, the ACSW has indicated these updates are grounded in research, collaboration with social workers, and consultation with other regulatory bodies (ACSW, 2025, December 8).

As a registrant myself, I welcome the move from the lettered credit hour categories to a more simplified system. These updates make it easier to identify which learning opportunities meet the program’s requirements.

If you’d like more information about the ACSW Continuing Competence Program, the ACSW is hosting live webinars through January 2026 to explain the new requirements. There is also a Consultation Service for social workers wishing to discuss the changes directly with ACSW staff. These are excellent opportunities to get all of your burning questions answered so that you a fully informed about your continuing competence program requirements.

Are you also searching for a social work clinical supervisor?

Check out clinical supervisor listings on the Canadian Clinical Supervision Therapist Directory.

References

ACSW. (2025, December 8). Competence program changes information for registrants. Live webinar hosted by the ACSW. ACSW’s On-demand webinar available for review at https://acsw.ab.ca/changes-to-acsws-continuing-competence-program-join-us-to-learn-more/

Disclaimer #1

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. The information is accurate as of the date written and may change based on future ACSW regulatory decisions.

Disclaimer #2

The content presented is an interpretive review based on the author’s attendance at a live ACSW webinar on December 8, 2025.

Disclaimer #3

This article is not written on behalf of or for ACSW and has not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by ACSW. It is an interpretive summary of certain aspects of the ACSW continuing competence program. For specific questions, please contact ACSW directly.