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Online Bachelor of Social Work Degree
Request InformationPut your passion for social justice into action with an online bachelor’s degree in social work from Walden.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule September 27, 2021
Accreditations
CSWE Accredited
Transfer Credits
- Up to 130 Credits
Follow Your Calling to Help Others With Our Bachelor of Social Work Online
Are you passionate about creating a better world? Make an impact on people’s lives while shaping the career you want with Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program.
Accredited by CSWE, Walden’s program meets rigorous standards to prepare you for today’s social work field. Engaging instruction, realistic simulations, and hands-on experiences help you grow as a practitioner and social change agent. Chart a clear course to your career—or prepare to pursue your Master of Social Work (MSW) degree—with a program designed to ignite lifelong learning.
An online BSW program helps students immediately prepare for an entry position in the social work field or start on a path to their master's degree if they choose.
Why Choose Walden?
Learn From Experts
Our students benefit from Walden’s 50+ years of experience in delivering distance education, and every BSW faculty member holds a doctoral degree.
Gain Hands-On Skills
A Skills Lab and video case studies help you acquire and practice sought-after skills in a safe and supportive environment .
Get a Jump-Start on Your MSW
Move seamlessly from our BSW into our MSW program with the Advanced Standing Option.
Prepare for Licensure
Get support in preparing for your state licensure exam, including a review of sample questions and important test-taking skills.
Program Savings
Receive up to a $8,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on September 27, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowCurriculum
Degree Completion Requirements
- 182 quarter credits (1 semester credit equals 1.5 quarter credits)
- General education courses (51 cr.)
- Lower-level core courses (15 cr.)
- Professional core courses (45 cr.)
- Elective courses (50 cr.)
- Field Experience courses (20 cr.)
- Social Work Skills Lab (1 cr.) - 3 weeks online, 4 day intensive (choose face-to-face or virtual), 2 weeks online
Students may be eligible to transfer up to 130 credits from work completed at a previous institution. At least 45 credits must be completed at Walden.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
| Course Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HMNT 1001 |
Living and Learning in the Technological World
Imagine life without cell phones, television, or the internet. Recent technological developments have significantly altered all aspects of human life: at work; in play; and in personal, family, and social interactions. In this course, students examine the advantages, disadvantages, and controversies of living and learning in an ever-changing technological environment. By exploring multiple perspectives, students discover how technology is changing media, culture, business, health, human behavior, and overall access to information. In a dynamic, reflective, and engaging classroom environment, students use a variety of audio, visual, literary, and artistic resources, to engage in open dialogue. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden. Students complete the course with a personalized success plan that provides a customized roadmap and tools that they can use immediately on their journey toward the completion of their bachelor's degree. Note: Virtual, cyber, digital, and asynchronous are used to describe online environments in this course. |
(6 cr.) |
| SOCW 2001 |
Introduction to Social Work
This course is designed to introduce students to the social work profession. Students in the course explore the history of the profession, the characteristics of generalist practice, social work practice settings, and professional values and ethics. Students also develop knowledge of current issues and directions for the profession, and the requirements and challenges of being a professional social worker. |
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 2002 |
Basic Skills for Social Work Practice
This course is designed to develop the basic practice skills necessary for BSW students to begin professional social work practice. Students in the course receive an overview of the knowledge, skills, values, and ethics that a generalist social worker must possess to work effectively with a client. Concepts underlying social work practice, such as the helping process—intake and assessment; basic interviewing skills for the beginning social work professional; engagement; and best practices—are addressed. The practice content to be explored includes understanding self-awareness and confidentiality. While the major emphasis of the course is on basic interviewing skills, a strengths perspective within a systems framework is incorporated in the course. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 2003 |
Introduction to the Welfare State
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge to analyze, formulate, and advocate for social policies that advance individual and social well-being. Students explore various methods of policy analysis and develop advocacy plans that involve collaboration with colleagues and communities to address policy issues. There is a special emphasis on policies that impact human rights and advance social and economic justice. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 3001 |
Diversity and Multiculturalism
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to multicultural social work practice and the importance of cultural competence. During the course, students are encouraged to assess their own level of self-awareness and their ability to engage in critical thinking on the issues of diversity and social justice. Grounded within the professional Code of Ethics, students learn about concepts and theory related to social, economic, and environmental justice. In this course, students analyze and reflect on the impact of oppression and discrimination on diverse groups. They learn how to engage evidence-informed practice, as well as advocate on behalf of others, particularly vulnerable populations. Throughout the course, students learn about various cultural groups and apply their learning to a different population each week. By the end of the course, students will be prepared with the foundational knowledge and skills for social work practice with culturally diverse and vulnerable populations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 3002 |
Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the intersection between the social environment and the healthy lifespan development of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Throughout this course, students enhance their understanding of how the environment and social context serve to mediate or intersect with the healthy development of each individual, family, group, or community. Students are introduced to the ways gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and disability impact human development. Students also explore human behavior through the lens of human development, environment, and social context. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 3003 |
Human Behavior in the Social Environment II
This course is designed to prepare students for clinical social work practice that reflects an advanced understanding of lifespan development and sociopsychological identity development in individuals, families, groups, and communities. Throughout this course, students will use their learning around lifespan development and sociopsychological identity development to understand human behavior and, particularly, individual and family functioning within the environmental context. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 3004 |
Social Work Research I
This course is designed to develop students' understanding of the importance of research to social work practice. Students are introduced to basic principles of scientific method and to various research methods within the quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research. This course is designed to introduce students to ethical standards as they relate to research, particularly as it relates to social work. Students explore research that addresses diverse populations. This basic course is the first of two courses designed to prepare students to use research to inform their ethical social work practice. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 4001 |
Policy and Advocacy
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge to analyze, formulate, and advocate for social policies that advance individual and social well-being. Students explore various methods of policy analysis and develop advocacy plans that involve collaboration with colleagues and communities to address policy issues. There is a special emphasis on policies that impact human rights and advance social and economic justice. Students will develop skills in the policy analysis process, including the values that influence policy, the legislative process, and the roles of advocacy and lobbying organizations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 4002 |
Social Work Research II
This course is designed to support students' development as generalist social workers. Students will identify and apply research that can be used to advance social work practice, including social welfare, advocacy, and policy. Throughout the course, students are provided with resources and activities designed to help them develop as critical consumers of research for the sake of ethical, evidenced-based social work practice. Students in this course have the opportunity to select research utilizing the various research methods and evaluate research design, research methods, and applicability of results to diverse populations. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 4003 |
Generalist Practice I—Individuals/Families
This first practice course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to utilize in their social work practice with individuals and families. The focus of this course is on preparing students to practice with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and marginalized or oppressed populations. Students demonstrate therapeutic skills to engage individuals and families, to define and prioritize issues, to set mutually developed goals, and to commit to the change process. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 4004 |
Generalist Practice II—Groups
This practice course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to apply social work services when working with groups. Students in this course will concentrate on the application of evidence-based practice theories and group work models consistent with empowerment and ecological perspectives. This course is particularly focused on groups from diverse cultural backgrounds and marginalized or oppressed populations. The focus is on the influence of social work professional values in working with families and on group work practice. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| SOCW 4005 |
Generalist Practice III—Organizations and Communities
This advanced course is designed to prepare students for their roles as supervisors, leaders, and administrators in social work organizations and communities. Students receive academic preparation focused on leadership theory and strategies for leadership development, ethical practice as supervisors, and roles of administrators in social work organizations and as community leaders. Students participate in activities that develop their skills in critical decision making to address some of the complex problems that are common to organizations and communities in social work. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| BWLB 4900 |
Social Work Skills Lab
The Social Work Skills Lab is a 1-credit, 6-week hybrid class that includes 3 weeks of online content, followed by a 4-day synchronous residential component, and then closes with 2 weeks of online content. Students in the Social Work Skills Lab I reinforce the content covered in the Social Work courses with an emphasis on skills development and advanced topics in diversity and inclusion, evidence-based practice, ethics, and development of the professional self. Material covered includes practice labs focused on individual engagement and assessment, group development and leadership, and an understanding of how to advocate within organizations and communities. A key component of the skills lab is to prepare and assess students for their readiness to enter the field. Prerequisites
Note: This course contains a required 4-day face-to-face experience and will bill with an additional lab fee. |
(1 cr.) |
Completion of Social Work Skills Lab I required before proceeding. |
||
| SOCW 4100 |
Field Seminar I
This is the first course in the field practicum sequence. Students are required to complete 200 hours in an approved social services agency under the supervision of a professional social worker. Students gain an introduction to the roles of a professional social worker in the practicum experience. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate skills in maintaining social work boundaries and ethics while interacting in a professional manner with clients. Students participate in weekly synchronous hour-long seminars with their instructor and peers. In the weekly seminar, students demonstrate their integration of classroom knowledge with the professional practice skills. Prerequisites
|
(10 cr.) |
| SOCW 4110 |
Field Seminar II
This is the second field course in the field practicum sequence. Students are required to complete 200 hours in an approved social services agency under the supervision of a professional social worker. Students have the opportunity to develop and demonstrate skills in engaging clients, developing mutually agreed-upon goals, identifying client's strengths and needs, completing assessments, and completing professional documentation in this practicum experience. Students also identify policies at the organizational, local, state, or national level that impact the client system. Students participate in weekly synchronous hour-long seminars with their instructor and peers. In the weekly seminar, students demonstrate their integration of classroom knowledge with the professional practice skills. Prerequisites
|
(10 cr.) |
|
Elective Courses
Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work program offers courses to align with your professional goals and interests. You are required to complete a total of 50 credits from elective coursework. |
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| VIEW ALL COURSES | ||
Advanced Standing Options
Start a journey of lifelong learning at Walden, which offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in social work online. BSW graduates with a 3.0 GPA or better at graduation are eligible to enter our MSW program in the advanced standing option, which may reduce the credits required for completion of the program. This allows you to earn your MSW faster and at a lower overall cost.
Admission Requirements
Admission is considered for adult students who hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
- You are 21 years of age or older.
- You are less than 21 years of age with at least 12 quarter credits.
- You are an active member of the military or a veteran with documentation of service.
More information for international applicants.
Mission Statement
The BSW program’s mission is to cultivate the development of generalist social work scholar-practitioners who are able to provide ethical, evidence-based services to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. With the BSW degree, social workers are prepared to use critical thinking skills and evidence-based practice to engage in generalist social work.
Tuition and Fees
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 182 quarter credit hours | $325 per quarter hour | $59,150 |
| Skills Lab Fee | One in program. In person or Virtual option. | $1,375 (Virtual) $1,475 (In-person: travel, lodging, and other expenses are additional) |
$1,375-$1,475 |
| Technology Fee | Per quarter | $160 | $2,560 |
| $63,085-$63,185* |
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Find Ways to SaveProgram Savings
Receive up to a $8,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on September 27, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowBecome a Social Policy Change Agent
Whether you’re looking to begin or advance your career in social work, Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work online program provides a clear, convenient, and affordable path forward. Put what you learn into practice through virtual or face-to-face Skills Labs, video case studies, and other experiential tools. Start a journey of lifelong learning at Walden, which offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in social work online. BSW graduates with a 3.0 GPA or better at graduation are eligible to enter our MSW program in the advanced standing option, which may reduce the credits required for completion of the program. This allows you to earn your MSW faster and at a lower overall cost.
Career Outlook
Advance social welfare in your community and serve those in need by earning your Bachelor of Social Work online degree. With a BSW, you can open the door to a rewarding and in-demand field1 while laying the foundation for your master’s degree.
A Bachelor of Social Work online degree can prepare you to pursue career options such as:2
- Case manager
- Children and family service worker
- School social worker
Demand for social work professionals is expected to increase
13%
by 2029—faster than the national average.1Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of our online BSW program, you will be able to:
- Develop a professional orientation and identity as a social worker.
- Apply legal and ethical standards in the administration of social work.
- Demonstrate skills in applying principles of advocacy toward promoting cultural understanding and positive social change in individuals, communities, and society.
- Use evidence-based research and critical thinking skills to inform practice in meeting the needs of diverse clientele.
- Synthesize and apply theories of human growth and development to develop culturally responsive social work practices.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the areas of engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
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Lisa Moon
DeanDr. Lisa Moon has worked in the field of social work for more than 30 years, with a professional background that encompasses child protection, medical social work, and mental health. Her research interests include mental health services for children, issues related to caring for the elderly, simulative education, and accreditation for social work programs.
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Angela Gaddis
Program DirectorDr. Gaddis’ social work experience includes working with the Department of Defense as a military family life consultant. She has overseen outpatient programs for mental health hospitals and ran her own private practice for more than 20 years.
Resource Articles
How Can I Customize My BSW Degree?
Resource Articles
What Careers Can You Enter With a BSW Degree?
FAQ About Walden’s Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work
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The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has designated March as National Professional Social Work Month, a celebration that highlights the important contributions of social workers. Social work professionals make a meaningful impact on nearly every aspect of society as advocates for the vulnerable and underserved. Dr. Barbara Solomon, namesake of Walden University’s Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, exemplifies this tradition of service. A retired Walden University board member and respected leader in the field, Dr. Solomon is recognized by the NASW as a Social Work Pioneer and is an inductee in the California Social Work Hall of Distinction. Walden is proud to count Dr. Solomon as a member of our community and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of our social work students and alumni.
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Social workers help individuals, families, and groups solve and cope with problems that may arise from a range of highly stressful life situations, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses and disabilities, and abusive family situations. Professionals with a social work degree are employed in a variety of settings—hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, social services agencies, mental health clinics, and private and nonprofit organizations. They advocate for their clients and connect them with social services designed to help alleviate their challenges.
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While social workers can fill a variety of roles, in general, social workers can be divided into two categories:
- Direct-service social workers identify government and community services that can improve their clients’ situations, such as applying for government aid, finding employment, removing children from abusive homes, and connecting with community resources like home meal delivery.
- Clinical social workers directly address the needs of their clients, many of whom may have emotional and behavioral problems or psychiatric conditions. As clinicians, social workers are trained to perform psychotherapy and even diagnose patients. They are often part of a collaborative team of psychiatrists and advanced-practice psychiatric nurses.
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While both degree types help prepare you for a career devoted to improving people’s lives, it’s helpful to look closer to find the ideal match for your interests and goals. If you want to connect individuals or families in need with resources and services that improve their circumstances and help them achieve social equity, you may choose to pursue a degree in social work. If you’re more interested in studying the human mind and behaviors, a degree in psychology would be the best fit.
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Yes, social work programs from reputable universities are accredited. Walden University offers two accredited social work degree programs: the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW). These programs are accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CSWE's Commission on Accreditation is responsible for developing accreditation standards that define competent preparation for professional social workers and ensuring that social work programs meet these standards.
Questions about our Bachelor of Social Work?
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