Bachelor of Social Work Program
Experience learning and training through our full-time program with campus-based, blended and online learning options.
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Nurture your passion and desire to help others
Through our program, you will experience learning and training through a social justice and anti-oppressive structure. We will prepare you for a generalist social work practice with diverse, vulnerable and marginalized individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Our Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
We offer a full-time program that provides campus-based learning with a blended option and a fully online option to prepare you for entry level professional social work practice.
Be empowered to help others lead a healthier, more productive and safer life. Learn how to promote social justice and be a positive change agent in the fast-growing field of social work.
Select a minor to strengthen your major
If you have selected a major in another area of study and are considering a minor, we offer two minors to support your educational pathway. Our minors, Applied Family Science and Social Work, will build and strengthen your skills set and enhance the development of your professional pathway.
Fast track a master’s degree in social work
Students in the BSW program establish a solid foundation for graduate study in social work, and have the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree through the University’s Soaring Scholars program. This 4+1 program is an accelerated pathway available to academically strong students. Students can earn a master’s degree in social work with one additional year of study following the completion of their bachelor’s degree.
Explore campus life and the Kent experience
The right fit for you
Select your learning experience from our accredited program. Enjoy campus-life and learning through our in-person program or experience the benefits of remote learning through our online option. Receive the same quality education from our Kent School faculty. Explore the program requirements.
Pay for college with money now and money later
CW PREP provides benefits that every BSW student needs to explore. Receive financial, academic and professional support as you focus on becoming the difference-maker Kentucky needs. Join the program and these benefits await you: Full in-state tuition coverage • $1,400 stipend every semester • Paid internship • Priority job placement with DCBS when you graduate • Access to resources
Frequently Asked Questions
A degree in social work has a broad range of applications in a variety of fields such as health care, private practice, schools, universities, government and more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the number of jobs for social workers is expected to grow faster than all other career fields through the year 2036. Employment growth is driven by an increased demand for health care and social services.
Social workers can be found working in organizations such as:
- Public and private school systems
- Hospitals, nursing homes and health care related agencies
- State and local government agencies
- Non-profit and charitable organizations
- Police departments
- Courts
The University’s Flight Plan enables students to stay on course to graduate in four years or in the time frame of their choice. Review the current BSW Flight Plan.
The University of Louisville offers Soaring Scholars, an accelerated graduate degree program offering talented and motivated undergraduate students the opportunity to increase their marketability, save time and reduce costs as they pursue a master’s degree.
Academically strong students are eligible to take up to nine (9) credits that will apply to both their current undergraduate degree and a future graduate degree program. Learn more about Soaring Scholars.
The Kent School Student Organization (KSSA) provides all Kent students, both campus-based and remote, opportunities to advocate, promote and build connections in an inclusive learning environment. In addition, the UofL offers numerous clubs and organizations for student participation based on personal interests.
For students considering living on campus, we offer the Social Work Living Learning Community (LLC) located in Bettie Johnson Hall. This LLC is intended for upper level students who want to pursue a career in social work, couple and family therapy or those who want to join a supportive community agent. Through the LLC, students experience academic support, mentorship, peer connections and student engagement. Learn more about the Social Work LLC.
As a program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), the Kent School of Social Work and Family Science does not waive any practicum and/or coursework requirements for previous work or life experience per the CSWE’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standard, 3.1.5 (CSWE EPAS 2015).