Bachelor of Social Work

Hours: 60 On-Campus Online

About

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Fort Hays State University equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to become effective generalist social work practitioners. Graduates are prepared to work with individuals, groups, communities, and organizations across diverse settings to address social challenges and promote well-being.

Through a combination of coursework and practical experiences, students gain the tools to navigate the complexities of social work practice. The program emphasizes ethical standards and cultural competence, preparing graduates to advocate for and serve vulnerable populations with dedication and professionalism.

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

Our Bachelor of Social Work program prepares students for professional practice by providing practical skills and comprehensive knowledge essential for success in the field. Over 90% of BSW graduates secure employment in social work shortly after completing this program. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program meets rigorous standards, ensuring students receive a high-quality undergraduate education.

Who is this program for?

The Bachelor of Social Work program welcomes a diverse range of individuals. Committed to inclusivity and academic excellence, the program attracts students from various backgrounds. It is well suited for those interested in:

Child welfare
Case management
Criminal justice
Mental health
Disability services
Healthcare

Learning Outcomes

The demand for skilled social workers capable of addressing complex societal challenges is higher than ever. FHSU’s Bachelor of Social Work program focuses on developing a diverse and valuable skill set in students. Through its comprehensive curriculum, students gain expertise that equips them to:

Generalist Practice Proficiency

Graduates demonstrate expertise in generalist social work practice, applying strengths-based, systems, and ecological approaches to effectively engage diverse individuals, families, and communities. They utilize knowledge of human behavior and social environments to navigate and adapt to varied practice settings.

Cultural Competence

The program fosters cultural competence, preparing graduates to effectively engage with diverse populations. Graduates demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by rural and urban low-income groups, the elderly, individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and various minority communities.

Continuing Education and Research Engagement

Our BSW program fosters a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. Graduates are prepared for immediate social work practice and possess a strong academic foundation for pursuing advanced graduate education in social work.

Real-World Applications

A cornerstone of the Bachelor of Social Work program is the social work practicum, regarded as the “signature pedagogy” of social work education. This capstone experience allows students to demonstrate their ability 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 offers ample opportunities to work with diverse populations and gain practical experience essential for professional development.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current with industry advancements is essential for aspiring social workers, given the constantly evolving nature of the field. Fort Hays State University continuously integrates the latest trends and innovations into its Bachelor of Social Work curriculum. The program places strong emphasis on utilizing technology to deliver advanced behavioral services, meeting the increasing demand in this area. Students gain practical experience through simulation programs featuring avatars and develop their skills within virtual learning environments.

Hands-on Activities

The 400-hour field practicum offered during the spring semester provides students with invaluable hands-on experience, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world social work settings. This practical training deepens their understanding of the complex challenges faced in the profession. Additionally, FHSU offers research opportunities, including participation in national conferences, which further enrich students’ knowledge of social issues and support their development 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, FHSU’s dedicated faculty prepare students to address key areas such as mental health, child welfare, and social services. The curriculum examines the complexities of working with diverse populations and highlights the social worker’s role in promoting community well-being. Below are several core courses offered in the Bachelor of Social Work 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 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 growing emphasis on mental health, community well-being, and social justice, graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program have diverse opportunities. The curriculum equips students for a wide range of rewarding and impactful careers.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Graduates can pursue rewarding careers as substance abuse counselors, providing essential support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. They apply their expertise to guide clients through recovery and contribute meaningfully to rehabilitation efforts.

Crisis Intervention

Social workers offer immediate support and resources to individuals and families facing emergencies like domestic violence or homelessness. This goal-focused approach helps clients develop coping strategies and action plans to resolve the crisis and reduce future risks.

Child Welfare Specialist

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

Bachelor’s Level Case Manager

Graduates are well-prepared for roles as bachelor’s level case managers. They assess client needs, coordinate services, and advocate for access to resources. With an ethical and culturally competent approach, they empower individuals and families to 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

While the Bachelor of Social Work program equips students with foundational skills for generalist practice, several related programs offer opportunities to specialize further. Students can explore options within and beyond the Department of Social Work to expand their expertise and enhance 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 equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to address complex social issues. Whether advocating for individuals, families, or communities, you’ll gain the expertise to evaluate and solve real-world problems with empathy and professionalism.

As one of the fastest-growing careers in the U.S., social work offers dynamic opportunities to make a difference. Our programs provide you with a deep understanding of human behavior, development, and the social systems that influence lives. Through hands-on learning experiences, such as internships and service projects, you will graduate ready to take on diverse roles in a profession dedicated to improving the well-being of others.

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