Marywood University

What you'll study

The Marywood BSW combines liberal arts foundations with professional social work coursework and supervised field education. Core topics include human behaviour and the social environment, social welfare policy, diversity and cultural competence, assessment and intervention, research methods, and ethics. The curriculum emphasises strengths-based, person-in-environment practice and integrates coursework on family systems, mental health, substance use, child welfare, and community organisation.

• First- and second-year: general education, introductory social work, psychology, sociology, and communication skills that underpin later professional courses.
• Upper-level courses: advanced practice methods, case management, group work, policy analysis, and social work research and evaluation.
• Field practicum: supervised placements in partnered agencies are a central feature, with escalating hours and responsibilities designed to develop assessment, intervention, documentation and advocacy skills.
• Capstone: integrative projects or practicum seminars that synthesise theory, practice and research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic performance across secondary school subjects, with particular emphasis on strong writing and communication skills. Relevant volunteer, service or paid experience with human services or community organisations is advantageous.

• Transcripts demonstrating college-preparatory coursework (for example, English and social sciences).
• Personal statement outlining interest in social work, values and related experience.
• References or letters of recommendation, preferably from teachers or supervisors who can speak to interpersonal and ethical qualities.
• Successful applicants to the practicum sequence will need to satisfy agency requirements such as background checks, immunisation records, and any state-mandated clearances prior to placement.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level professional roles in human services and for progression to graduate study in social work (MSW) if they seek clinical licensure. Typical employment settings include child welfare agencies, schools, hospitals and healthcare systems, mental health and substance use treatment centres, community and non-profit organisations, corrections and reentry programmes.

• Job titles: case manager, family support worker, community outreach coordinator, school social work assistant, medical social work aide, intake worker and advocacy specialist.
• Further study: an MSW enables clinical licensure and expanded practice opportunities; the BSW also positions students for advanced standing in many MSW programmes.
• Skills employers value: assessment and intervention, crisis management, cross-cultural competence, documentation and multidisciplinary teamwork.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a values-informed social work education with small class sizes and faculty who bring both academic and field experience. The programme benefits from established partnerships with local health, education and social service agencies, providing diverse practicum opportunities across urban and rural settings.

• Faculty mentorship and accessible advising help students plan coursework and field placements tailored to career goals.
• Emphasis on social justice, service and reflective practice aligns classroom learning with community engagement.
• Support services—such as career services, counselling and writing assistance—help students succeed academically and professionally.