Bachelor of Social Work

Objectives

The Bachelor of Social Works objective is to prepare social workers who will make an impact in the lives of others. The BSW degree is a 120 SCH social work program designed for both new and transfer students. The course delivery method includes both face-to-face and online formats, allowing students to choose a mix of face-to-face or online courses to complete the degree. The BSW is a generalist track introducing students to social work foundations such as promoting human well-being and applying preventative and intervention methods to social problems at the individual, group, and community level while following ethical principles and using critical thinking skills.  The graduates will be prepared for career opportunities in a variety of roles such as caseworkers, service workers, probation officers, human services specialist, and mental health assistants. Graduating students will be eligible to apply for the MSW (Master of Social Work) degree. The BSW program will seek CSWE (Council on Social Work Education) accreditation which will allow students completing the program eligibility to sit for the LBSW (Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker) which provides documentation of their obtained skills and knowledge needed for their areas of expertise.  The goal is that every major is prepared to become a LBSW or transition into an MSW program for further advancement.

Educational Objectives

1. Develop and demonstrate critical thinking skills in all social work aspects 
2. Develop and apply professional social work ethics and values across all areas of practice
3. Distinguish between personal and professional ethics 
4. Apply social work knowledge, skills, and research to advance social work practice
5. Analyze, formulate, design, evaluate, and influence social policies affecting organizations and communities
6. Advocate for human rights and social justice within all populations
7. Apply theoretical frameworks to assess and evaluate social work interventions
8. Provide students the opportunities to serve in social work environments
9. Engage, assess, and evaluate individuals, families, groups and organizations within the confines of social work interventions
10. Understand and promote opportunities that allow students to work and communicate in diverse environments
11. Understand and demonstrate the use of communication channels within organizations and communities 
12. Identify the various determinants associated with health and well-being
13. Use self-awareness, reflection, journaling, and mindfulness to clarify self-values, attitudes and beliefs while working with diverse populations
14. Identify and advocate for needed resources for underinsured, uninsured, and low-income clients and patients

All objectives are standard in the generalist social work program.

Admission Requirements

1. Apply to the BSW program
2. Have a transcript indicating an overall 2.75 GPA or higher
3. Complete a 300-word personal statement of interest in social work
4. Read and sign the NASW Code of Ethics, and the BSW program handbook and standards
5. No grade below a "C" will be accepted toward the degree.
6. To remain in good standing, a BSW major must maintain an average GPA of 2.75.