Bachelor of Social Work

OVERVIEW

This program provides an academically rigorous, socially relevant curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary for careers in social work. The online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Saint Joseph’s College prepares students for entry-level generalist practice in positions such as case manager, discharge planner, mental health and behavioral health technicians. This degree also prepares students to become licensed as a professional social worker and provides a strong foundation for graduate work in a Master of Social Work (MSW) program. This degree path will prepare you for multiple career paths across diverse fields including settings such as healthcare, education, government, human resources, criminal justice, and the non-profit sector.

The online BSW program in a natural cohort model that fosters peer-support along with a strong faculty presence throughout the learning process. Students will have the opportunity to start networking immediately by joining the National Association of Social Workers as well as the Phi Alpha National Honor Society for Social Work if eligible.

CSWE Accreditation

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Graduates of this program will be prepared for licensure as an LSW in most states according to licensure laws and also be eligible to pursue advanced standing in MSW programs across the country.

Students are encouraged to verify license eligibility in the state(s) they plan to practice as a social worker.

Professional Licensure

It is important to note that NC-SARA does not deal with professional licensing board approval for any courses or programs leading to professional licensure.  Saint Joseph’s College of Maine cannot know nor guarantee where our coursework will meet requirements for professional licensure, endorsements, or license renewal in states outside of Maine.  If you are planning on using our coursework towards a license or credential in your state, we recommend that you consult with the appropriate licensing agency or board in the state for which you seek to obtain licensure.

Links to Professional Licensure Boards/Requirements

Social Work

https://www.aswb.org/

https://www.socialworklicensure.org/

View our Social Work Program Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes.

At a glance

  • Strong preparation for career and graduate studies
  • Flexibility to learn on your own time and at your own pace
  • Ability to transfer in credits from other accredited programs
  • Emphasis on experiential learning with two student-selected internship placements
  • Guidance from Field Directors to help students find internships in their own state
  • Opportunities for faculty-student collaboration
  • Graduates will be qualified to become licensed as a social worker
  • Graduates may be eligible for advanced standing, shortening the path to an MSW
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CURRICULUM

Courses required for the Bachelor of Social Work degree include social work specific classes in human behavior, policy, research, practice, and field internships, as well as other closely aligned social sciences with the profession of social work. Students will take a course on the impact of trauma, poverty, addiction and abuse on the brain to understand and empathize the challenges people face, which relate to their environment but also have a biological base.

Students will gain practical experience through two internships, including a full-year placement. The College works with agencies and organizations in hospital systems, private non-profits, schools, drug rehabs, and other community agencies.

Complimentary degrees for BSW students include criminal justice or theology. Dual majors may be possible by working with your advisor.

Minor

Social Service Profession Minor
The Social Service Profession minor is designed to augment majors in the helping profession like sociology, psychology or criminal justice.

VIEW COURSE CATALOG

SOME OF OUR FACULTY

Rebecca Brown, MSW, LCSW
Rebecca Brown, MSW, LCSWProgram Director, Associate Professor, Social Work
MSW, Boston College
BA, Gettysburg College

Learn more about Rebecca

Caitlin Eldridge
Caitlin EldridgeField Coordinator, Assistant Professor
MSW, University of New England
BA, Bates College

Learn more about Caitlin

Leah Lazzaro
Leah LazzaroOnline Adjunct Faculty, Social Work
PhD candidate, Kutztown & Millersville University
MSW, Monmouth University
BA, Pennsylvania State University

Learn more about Leah

STUDENT STORIES

Meghan Elmore ’19
Meghan Elmore ’19BSW major
“One of the perks of being a social work major is that there is such a wide variety of populations and work settings to choose from. Saint Joseph’s BSW program exposes you to different fields, to help you get a sense of what fits you best. We also have two required internships, which offer direct, realistic experience in social work. This prepares us for life after SJC, whether it’s graduate school or jumping straight into the workplace.”
Pauline Cyr Cormier ’61
Pauline Cyr Cormier ’61Meet alumna Pauline Cyr Cormier
Pauline Cyr Cormier ’61 volunteered five years of her life to achieve justice for marginalized farm workers.

CAREER MOVES

The social work major is a strong foundation for professional careers in various organizations including Child Welfare, Corrections, Health Care, Policy and Planning, Private Non-Profits, and non-governmental agencies (NGOs). According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics the profession is growing faster than most and the U.S. Government has loan forgiveness programs to help social workers with some of their student loans. Individuals with a BSW are prepared for entry-level direct practice within the field. Most states will require licensure, certification. Additional information on professional licensure can be obtained at the Association of Social Work Boards and through the State of Maine Board of Social Work Examiners.

BSW OPENS MANY DOORS