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What Classes Will I Take When Earning a BSW?

Get an inside look at some of the online classes in Walden’s Bachelor of Social Work program.

Social workers play an invaluable role in society, working to improve the lives of individuals and entire communities. It’s also a profession that happens to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is expected to grow 12% through 2030—much faster than the average for all occupations.1 And when you earn your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from Walden University, you can position yourself to become the qualified social work professional employers are looking for. With a curriculum specifically designed to prepare graduates to achieve success in the field, the CSWE-accredited BSW degree program features high-quality online classes that center on the most important social work topics. Below are a few.

SOCW 2001 – Introduction to Social Work

One of the first courses in Walden’s BSW degree program is Introduction to Social Work. This online class provides students with a vital overview of the profession and sets the stage for the remainder of the curriculum. Topics include the history of social work, characteristics of generalist practice, key social work practice settings, and industry values and ethics. In addition, students will examine current social work issues as well as the requirements and challenges faced by those serving in the field.

SOCW 3001 – Diversity and Multiculturalism

Demonstrating cultural competence is vital to being an ethical and impactful social worker. In the Diversity and Multiculturalism course, students will learn how to think critically about issues related to diversity and social justice. Through analysis and reflection, they will also have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the impact discrimination and oppression have on diverse populations. By the end of the online class, students should be better equipped with the cultural knowledge and skills they need to effectively advocate on behalf of others—especially vulnerable groups.

SOCW 4001 – Policy and Advocacy

Students in this BSW degree program course will learn how to analyze, develop, and promote policies that advance individual and social welfare. A special emphasis in the Policy and Advocacy online class is centered on the various policies that affect human rights and further social and economic justice. In addition to studying the policy analysis process, students will also explore what influences policymaking, the legislative process, and the roles of lobbying and advocacy organizations.

SOCW 3002 – Human Behavior in the Social Environment I

In the introductory Human Behavior in the Social Environment course, students will examine the intersection between the social environment and the lifespan development of individuals, families, and communities. Within this framework, BSW degree program students will explore the different ways human development is impacted by gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and disability. This online class is followed by its more advanced counterpart—SOCW 3003 – Human Behavior in the Social Environment II—which dives into sociopsychological identity development as it pertains to lifespan development.

Pave the Way for Your Social Work Career by Earning Your Online Degree at Walden

At Walden, you have options. With two CSWE-accredited programs to choose from—the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and the Master of Social Work (MSW)—you can develop the in-demand skills and credentials you need to make a difference in the lives of others and impact the field. And at Walden, an accredited university, you can earn your degree online while you continue to work full time. That means you don’t have to put your social work career on hold while you further your knowledge and experience. With online learning, you can take classes at whatever time of day works best for you as you study for your social work degree and prepare to become a licensed social worker.

Walden University is an accredited institution offering a suite of social work degree programs online, including a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW). Expand your career options and earn your degree using a convenient, flexible learning platform that fits your busy life.

1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.

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