Social Work
The Social Work program uses a student-centered strengths-based educational model that fosters understanding by providing a challenging, yet supportive environment of high expectations that encourages the development of well-informed and engaged citizens.
Social workers love helping people who feel they can’t be helped, who feel there is no solution to their problems. And they call on their clients’ strengths to help solve those problems, so that clients do not grow dependent on them. The Social Work program cultivates students who are community organizers, advocates, social justice workers, political reformists. They look at problems and create a space that allows for change. Ultimately, social workers catalyze change that ushers in restoration, wholeness, and hope.
- SOCW 200—Introduction to Social Work
- SOCW 300 Diversity: Identities and Issues
- SOCW 225—Intro Stat for Social Work
Students applying to the major must also provide evidence of the completion of 50 hours of volunteer or paid work experience related to the field
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
Social Work provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares graduates for excellence in the areas of social work practice, policy, social engagement and leadership. Graduates will be prepared for entry into professional social work practice, advanced standing in graduate social work education, and career opportunities and graduate education in the areas such as communications, corrections, education, government, health care, human resources, law, nonprofit organizations, religious studies, and public service.
- Ability to work independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team
- Documenting information and presenting it clearly, in both written and spoken form
- Genuine desire to help and work with others
- Interviewing and collecting information from people and communicating it to others
- Research skills in gathering information and answering questions
- Career Counselor
- Child Welfare Worker
- Community Affairs Specialist
- Community Service Agency Director
- Drug Abuse Counselor
- Family Therapist
- Government Agency Administrator
- Guidance Counselor
- Hospital Administrator
- Human Resources Specialist
- Marriage Counselor
- Mental Health Therapist
- Nonprofit Agency Administrator
- Nursing Home Administrator
- Probation/Parole Officer
- Psychologist
- Public Administrator
- Private Counseling
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Residence Counselor
- School Social Worker
- Social Worker Gerontologist
- Sociologist
- Youth Counselor
Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.
- Participating in undergraduate research
- Applying for a study abroad experience
- Utilizing resources of The Career Center
- Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- New Life Volunteering Society: is a tight-knit group that exists to provide service with a cherry on top! They volunteer locally and abroad, raise money for charities, provide leadership opportunities, and love getting to know each other.
- Bachelor of Social Work Association
- Association of Black Social Workers
- Work with the Community Learning Lab to gain experience and work on volunteer hours toward the major
There are several professional organizations dedicated to Social Work. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Social Work. These organizations include National Association of Social Workers and Council on Social Work Education.