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
This program began a three-year national accreditation process in March of 2016 with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). When the process is completed (June 2019), students will be license eligible as a BSW in most states with licensure laws and also be eligible for 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.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
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.
SOME OF OUR FACULTY
BA, Gettysburg College
BSW, Monmouth University
BSW, Monmouth University
STUDENT STORIES
