Undergraduate Program

Program Description

The mission of the undergraduate social work program is to prepare students for graduate study and ethical generalist practice with and on behalf of diverse populations in Northeast Ohio whose well-being and quality of life are at risk. Special attention is given to human dignity and worth, social justice, human diversity, empowerment, and cultural competence, and to the enhancement of social functioning, by drawing on client strengths and community resources. The social work major is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for entry level generalist social work practice. This approach assumes an interdependence between individuals and their social environment. Students gain a broad knowledge about individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities and the ways in which each support or inhibit optimal functioning.

To be prepared for this beginning level of professional practice, students learn the history and current development of social welfare programs and the social welfare institution; professional values and ethics; theories of human behavior, family, group, community and organizational functioning; an appreciation of research and methods of practice and program evaluation; methods of influencing social change; the particular needs of oppressed populations; and practice skills with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations.

The Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in social work (B.A.) requires completion of two years of a foreign language (American Sign Language is accepted). The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree (B.A.S.W.) does not require a foreign language.

Social work classes emphasize group discussion and experiential learning

Admission to undergraduate program