Major in making a difference

The vision of this Department reflects a central belief that its curriculum be guided by the principle of doing what is right and just. We teach students to willingly accept the professional responsibility to act as the “heart and conscience” of the profession, and to advocate on behalf of those who suffer discrimination and oppression. The Department’s mission and goals stem from this vision.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is dedicated to
educating and preparing students to demonstrate ethically guided, evidence informed, generalist
practice social work knowledge, with a focus on the recognition of oppression and application of
critical thinking, social justice values, and wellness in the environment on both a local and global
context.

BSW Goals:

• Prepare graduates for entry-level employment in generalist social work
  practice positions.
• Graduate competent (based on CSWE Foundation Competencies and Practice
  Behaviors) BSW level social work professionals.
• Prepare students to practice the principles and values of the social work
  profession and its dedication to social justice, social and natural
  environments, and a commitment to advance wellness and sustainability.
• Prepare students for entry into graduate school and stimulate engagement in
  regional professional development activities.
• Prepare students from a empowerment perspective to practice inclusivity,
  respect, and equality to diverse, disadvantaged populations and advocate
  for human rights, social and economic justice.
• Prepare students for state and national examination for certification as entry-
  level social workers.

To learn more, view our latest BSW Competency Outcomes

Curriculum

Undergraduate Social Work curriculum is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in social work across many industries including government, education, non-profit and the private sector.

Students will receive solid foundation of general education courses as well as social science and humanities courses through their Social Work Gateway phase of courses. 

After the foundation of the Social Work Gateway courses, students formally apply to the BSW program. Upon acceptance, students will be able to access upper level and field study placement. 

Field Studies

The Bachelor of Social Work program offers field placements as part of Social Work education. The placements give students the opportunity to develop skills under the supervision of an experienced social worker.

Near completion of the 300-level courses, the student submits a formal application for admission to the Field Practicum. The application materials are to be completed online by the announced due date, which is usually in the middle of the spring semester. Only those who are formally admitted will be permitted to enroll in the 400-level courses.

Advising

Successful students seek out advice and support throughout their educational journey. Students with an interest in Social Work are encouraged to meet with BSW Program Coordinator, Colleen Hansen, to talk about Social Work careers, what it’s like to be a student in the department, and educational plans. Once admitted to the BSW program students will be assigned an advisor. BSW Faculty will assist students in developing a completion plan to successfully complete their social work degree.

Additional help in selecting courses, building a class schedule and planning for future semesters can be found at the Undergraduate Advising Resource Center (UARC).

Student Resume Format

NASW Code of Ethics