Dr. Tommy Spence

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Tommy Spence is an Adjunct Professor at the University of British Columbia's School of Social Work, where he has been teaching since 2022. With a Master's in Social Work (MSW) and registered social worker (RSW), Tommy is dedicated to creating collaborative learning environments that support students in translating theory into practice. His teaching emphasizes the importance of lived experiences in understanding and navigating complex social issues, particularly in the context of substance use. He has also provided guest lectures and training on topics such as Narrative Therapy and burnout prevention for the front line social service workforce. For over 13 years, Tommy has lived and worked on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, where he has built a practice that includes group counseling in a publicly funded health clinic and working alongside young people to renegotiate their relationships with drugs and alcohol.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.