Program Overview
The social work major at the University of Kansas prepares students to make a meaningful impact in communities by addressing social injustices, advocating for vulnerable populations, and promoting well-being through professional practice. Rooted in the values of service, integrity, and social justice, this program emphasizes both professional competence and ethical responsibility. The curriculum is grounded in social work principles, ethics, and evidence-based practice, ensuring students develop a strong foundation for professional practice. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in social services, community organizations, healthcare settings, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, as well as to continue their education in graduate-level programs.
KU’s Bachelor of Social Work program provides students with hands-on learning opportunities that bridge theory and practice. Through practicum placements, service-learning, and applied coursework, students gain direct experience working with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. The curriculum emphasizes social policy, human behavior in the social environment, research methods, and generalist practice approaches. Students in this major in social work learn to assess needs, design interventions, and evaluate outcomes while applying culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices. Social work students also complete a required, for-credit practicum, or internship, as part of their degree. This experiential approach ensures graduates are well prepared to enter professional practice or pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, including advanced standing, accelerated master’s degree options for eligible BSW graduates.
The social work bachelor’s degree emphasizes generalist social work social work education, preparing students to work across diverse systems and populations. Coursework integrates classroom learning with community engagement, helping students understand the complex social, economic, and environmental factors that affect individuals and communities. By combining academic rigor with experiential learning, the social work major supports students in developing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and professional communication skills essential for effective practice.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Social Work, BSWKU School of Social Welfare
The Bachelor of Social Work is part of the School of Social Welfare, where we educate, train and support qualified, compassionate social workers.Bachelor’s in Social Work Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the social work degree will be able to:
- Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
- Apply social work ethical principles and values to guide professional practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
- Utilize critical thinking and ethical reasoning to assess client needs, evaluate interventions, and respond to complex social issues
- Advocate and engage in practices that advance human rights to promote social, racial, economic, and environmental justice
- Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice, and apply ethically informed research when engaging with clients
- Demonstrate generalist practice skills, including case management, policy analysis, advocacy, and intervention strategies across systems
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor of Social Work?
Graduates of the social work major are prepared for a wide range of entry-level professional roles that focus on improving individual and community well-being. Social work major jobs often emphasize advocacy, service coordination, and direct client support across multiple settings. Common career paths include:
- Child and family services
- Healthcare and public health social work
- Mental health and substance use counseling
- School social work
- Policy and advocacy organizations
According to Lightcast data, demand for social workers is expected to continue growing over the next decade, reflecting increased need for services related to healthcare access, mental health support, and community well-being. Median salaries vary by role and specialization, with healthcare and clinical-focused social work degree jobs often offering higher earning potential. Clinical social work roles typically require a master’s degree in social work. A social worker degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study, licensure pathways, and career advancement.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities to help students fund their education. Scholarships, grants, and work-study options are available to eligible students. To learn more about tuition and financial aid, visit KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the social work major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students.
Students entering the Bachelor of Social Work program at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park, Kansas must meet requirements to begin upper-level social work classes.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
The social work major integrates academic learning with practical experience to enhance student development and professional readiness. Students participate in structured learning opportunities designed to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts, including:
- Supervised practicum placements in social service and community agencies
- Opportunities to participate in faculty-led research and community-based projects
- Engagement in service-learning initiatives focused on social justice and equity
- Coursework that emphasizes reflective practice, ethical reasoning, and professional growth
Bachelor of Social Work Sample Courses
The social work bachelor’s degree curriculum includes foundational and advanced coursework designed to support generalist social work practice. Courses may include:
- Introduction to Social Work Practice: Interviewing Skills
- Multilevel Engagement and Assessment in Social Work Practice
- Introduction to Social Policy and Advocacy
- Child Welfare: Protecting Children and Strengthening Families
Courses emphasize ethical practice, critical analysis, and applied skills that prepare students for entry-level professional roles or graduate study. For a complete list of courses and degree requirements, students should consult the KU Catalog.
Bachelor of Social Work Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
The program can typically be completed in four years of full-time study, or faster with transfer credits.
Where is the program offered?
The bachelor’s degree is in person at either the Lawrence campus or the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, Kansas.