Bachelor of Social Work

Hours: 60 On-Campus Online

About

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Fort Hays State University provides students with the essential knowledge and skills to become proficient generalist social work practitioners. Graduates are equipped to work with individuals, groups, communities, and organizations in a variety of settings, addressing social challenges and promoting overall well-being. Through a blend of academic coursework and practical experience, students develop the capabilities necessary to navigate the complexities of social work practice. The program places a strong emphasis on ethical standards and cultural competence, preparing graduates to advocate for and serve vulnerable populations with commitment and professionalism.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Social Work at Fort Hays State University?

The Bachelor of Social Work program prepares students for professional practice by equipping them with practical skills and comprehensive knowledge essential for success in the field. More than 90% of graduates secure employment in social work shortly after completing the program. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program adheres to rigorous standards, ensuring students receive a high-quality undergraduate education.

Who is this program for?

This program welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds. Committed to inclusivity and academic excellence, it attracts students with a wide range of experiences and perspectives. It is particularly well-suited for those interested in:

Child welfare
Case management
Criminal justice
Mental health
Disability services
Healthcare

Real-World Applications

A cornerstone of the Bachelor of Social Work program is the social work practicum, recognized as the “signature pedagogy” of social work education. This capstone experience enables students to apply core social work competencies and professional behaviors in real-world settings.

During the spring semester of their senior year, students complete an intensive practicum, dedicating approximately 24 hours per week to hands-on learning within various social service agencies. This 400-hour practicum provides extensive opportunities to work with diverse populations and gain practical experience critical for professional growth.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current with industry advancements is essential for aspiring social workers, given the ever-evolving nature of the field. Fort Hays State University’s Bachelor of Social Work program integrates the latest trends and innovations into its curriculum to ensure graduates are well-prepared for modern practice. The program places a strong emphasis on the use of technology to deliver advanced behavioral health services, addressing the growing demand in this area. Students gain hands-on experience through simulation programs featuring avatars and develop their skills within immersive virtual learning environments.

Hands-on Activities

The 400-hour field practicum, conducted during the spring semester, offers students invaluable hands-on experience, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world social work settings. This practical training enhances their understanding of the complex challenges encountered in the profession. Additionally, Fort Hays State University provides research opportunities, including participation in national conferences, which further broaden students’ knowledge of social issues and support their growth as effective advocates for human well-being.

What You’ll Learn:

Preparation to work with individuals, groups, and communities
Ethical decision-making skills for social work
Essential skills for effective practice
Up-to-date trends in social work
Application of knowledge to address various personal and social issues

How You’ll Learn:

Engage in practical experiences with peers and avatars
Experience hands-on insights into social work
Utilize technology for advanced services
Participate in research opportunities
Leverage simulation programs for real-world scenarios

Courses

Throughout the Bachelor of Social Work program, Fort Hays State University’s dedicated faculty prepare students to address critical areas such as mental health, child welfare, and social services. The curriculum explores the complexities of working with diverse populations and emphasizes the social worker’s role in promoting community well-being. The following are several core courses offered within the program:

SOCW 468: Field Practicum

A field experience that provides social work majors with supervised learning experiences within selected social welfare agencies. A capstone seminar accompanies this practicum, enabling students to integrate and apply classroom learning in a field setting. An ethnocultural practice perspective is emphasized. The field practicum preparatory course, Introduction to the Practicum, is taken in the semester immediately preceding the practicum. Four hundred (400) hours of field practicum experience are required.

SOCW 380: Generalist Practice: Foundations of Practice

As the first of five generalist practice courses, this foundation course provides entry-level theory, knowledge, research, values, and skills for social work practice. Self-awareness, critical thinking, problem-solving, professional relationships, and ethics are explored. This course focuses on the organizing frameworks of social work practice, including (but not limited to) systems theory, the strengths perspective, and the generalist practice model. An ethnocultural perspective focusing on Western Kansas urban/rural regions is emphasized. With instructor approval, the student will complete fifty (50) hours of nonpaid service in a community agency of the student's choice. The course culminates with the student's application for advancement into the BSW program.

SOCW 260: Introduction to Social Work

Introduction to the social service delivery systems in the United States, with an emphasis on the social work profession: its mission, philosophy, ethics, values, diverse fields, and ethnocultural perspectives. Observations of social service agencies and guest speakers provide a career orientation to the social work profession.

Discover the full Bachelor of Social Work course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

With an increasing focus on mental health, community well-being, and social justice, graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program pursue a wide array of diverse and meaningful career opportunities. The curriculum prepares students for impactful roles across various sectors within the social work field.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance abuse counselors support individuals struggling with substance use disorders, guiding them through recovery and contributing to rehabilitation efforts. Graduates are well-prepared for these rewarding roles.

Crisis Intervention

Social workers provide immediate support and resources to individuals and families experiencing emergencies such as domestic violence or homelessness. This goal-oriented approach assists clients in developing coping strategies and action plans to resolve the crisis and minimize future risks.

Child Welfare Specialist

Child welfare specialists protect children by investigating abuse or neglect, supporting families, and coordinating foster care or adoption services. They work to create stable, nurturing environments and advocate for children’s best interests within legal and social service systems.

Bachelor’s Level Case Manager

Case managers assess client needs, coordinate services, and advocate for access to resources. Graduates are prepared to empower individuals and families through ethical and culturally competent support, helping them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

The Bachelor of Social Work program builds a strong foundation in generalist practice, while also offering students opportunities to specialize through related programs. By exploring options within and beyond the Department of Social Work, students can expand their expertise and broaden their career prospects. Consider exploring:

FAQ

What classes do Bachelor of Social Work students take?

The coursework covers a wide array of topics essential for social work practice. It covers critical areas like mental health, child welfare, and social services.

What can I do with a Bachelor of Social Work?

Social work is a degree that allows for wide and diverse employment opportunities. The program allows students to pursue several career paths, including a case manager, substance abuse counselor, or child welfare specialist. Essentially, wherever people help others, social workers can be found employed there.

What is a Bachelor of Social Work?

The BSW program at FHSU is a professional degree that prepares students to become generalist social work practitioners capable of working across diverse settings to address social issues and promote well-being.

Are there other skills that the program encourages students to have?

In the human service field, being bilingual is indeed a significant asset.

Is social work a liberal arts degree?

While social work encompasses aspects of liberal arts education, it focuses on professional training, providing practical skills and knowledge needed for the field. Therefore, it can be seen as a blend of liberal arts education and professional preparation.

Information about the Department of Social Work

The Department of Social Work at FHSU offers programs designed to prepare students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to address complex social challenges. Whether advocating for individuals, families, or communities, students develop the expertise to assess and resolve real-world issues with compassion, critical thinking, and professionalism.

As one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States, social work provides dynamic career opportunities for those committed to making a meaningful impact. The department’s programs offer a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, development, and the broader social systems that shape people’s lives. Through hands-on learning experiences, including internships and service projects, students graduate fully equipped to pursue diverse roles within a profession dedicated to enhancing the well-being of others.

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