- Develop professional social work skills through hands-on experience in local communities and throughout Pennsylvania
- Gain real-world expertise through supervised fieldwork in social services and human services agencies
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Complete a comprehensive 450-hour field placement in your community during your final semester, preparing you for immediate entry into social work careers
BSW: Bachelor Degree in Social Work
Begin your journey toward a social work career with PennWest's accredited BSW program. Our comprehensive Bachelor of Social Work degree program equips you with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Through a combination of thorough coursework and extensive field experience, you'll develop the expertise needed for professional social work practice.
At PennWest, our BSW students learn from experienced faculty and gain practical experience in real-world settings. Whether you're interested in child welfare, healthcare, community organizing, or other areas of social work, our program provides the foundation for a meaningful career dedicated to helping others and promoting social justice.
The CSWE-accredited social work degree program prepares you to:
This program is for you if...
- You are passionate about becoming a social worker and helping individuals, families, and communities
- You want to earn a social work degree that prepares you for professional licensure and ethical practice
- You are committed to advancing human rights and social, racial, economic, and environmental justice
- You seek extensive hands-on experience through supervised practicum placements
- You value an education that emphasizes diversity and equity in social work practice
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120 Credits for BSW
BSW Degree Curriculum: Social Work Courses and Field Experience
PennWest's social work degree program provides comprehensive training in professional practice. Our Bachelor of Social Work curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills development, preparing you for immediate entry into social work careers. Our BSW program follows a progressive approach that builds from foundational concepts to specialized practice methods.
Throughout your coursework, you'll explore the social factors influencing human behavior while developing intervention skills for diverse populations. Our degree emphasizes evidence-based practices, social justice principles, and ethical decision-making. By integrating academic study with our signature 450-hour field placement, PennWest's social work bachelor degree program ensures graduates are fully prepared to address complex social challenges in various practice settings.
Core Social Work Courses:
- Introduction to Social Work
- Human Behavior in the Social Environment
- Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups
- Social Welfare Policy
- Social Work Research Methods
- Diversity in a Changing World
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
- Policy Practice in Social Work
Professional Field Experience
Your BSW degree culminates in our signature 450-hour supervised field placement at a social service agency. This hands-on experience, combined with our Social Work Field Seminar, provides real-world application of your skills and helps launch your social work career.
Learning Outcomes
As a PennWest BSW graduate, you'll be prepared to:
- Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior Advance human rights and social, racial, economic, and environmental justice
- Engage in anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion practices
- Apply research-informed strategies in your practice
- Work effectively with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Social Work, BSW | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This Location |
| Social Work, Minor | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
BSW Degree Program Formats
Earn your social work degree in the format that fits your life. The BSW program is available: In-person at our California campus In-person at our Edinboro campus. There is also a 100% online social work degree option.
Social Work Degree Jobs and Career Opportunities
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from PennWest opens doors to diverse social work careers and professional opportunities. Our graduates find rewarding social work degree jobs in various settings including child welfare, healthcare, substance abuse treatment, behavioral health, and community organizations. Plus, BSW graduates can earn Advanced Standing in our MSW program, completing their master's degree in just one year.
Career Paths
- Child and Family Social Worker: Works with children and families to ensure their safety and well-being, often in settings like schools, child welfare agencies, and family services organizations.
- Substance Abuse Counselor: Assists individuals struggling with addiction, offering therapy and support to help them overcome substance abuse issues (may require additional certification).
- Healthcare Social Worker: Supports patients in healthcare settings, helping them navigate medical systems, cope with illness, and access necessary resources (entry-level positions).
- Community Health Worker: Promotes health and wellness in communities by providing education, resources, and support to address health disparities and improve public health outcomes.
- School Social Worker: Addresses the social, emotional, and academic needs of students, working within educational settings to provide support and resources (may require additional certification).
- Rehabilitation Counselor Assistant: Supports rehabilitation counselors in helping individuals with disabilities achieve personal and professional goals.
- Social and Community Service Manager: Oversees social service programs and organizations, managing staff and ensuring effective delivery of services to communities (entry-level managerial roles).
- Victim Advocate: Provides support and resources to victims of crime, helping them navigate the legal system and access necessary services.
- Residential Counselor: Works in residential treatment facilities, providing support and care to individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues.
- Gerontological Social Worker Assistant: Supports older adults and their families, addressing issues related to aging, healthcare, and quality of life.
- Nonprofit Program Coordinator: Manages programs within nonprofit organizations, focusing on areas such as homelessness, domestic violence, or youth services.
- Youth Services Specialist: Works with youth in various settings, providing support, resources, and programming to promote their well-being.
Joey Pagano '21, '22
From Combat to Counseling: PennWest Social Work Graduate Transforms Recovery Experience into Social Work Career
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Oldest in PA
The bachelor's degree in social work at PennWest University is one of the oldest, accredited undergraduate social work programs in Pennsylvania.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.