university of illinois springfield

What you'll study

The BSW is a professional undergraduate degree combining foundation courses in social work theory, human behaviour, and social policy with skills-based practice classes and a supervised field practicum. Early coursework establishes knowledge of the profession, ethics and human diversity; later study focuses on assessment, intervention, community practice and research methods relevant to evidence-based social work.

• Foundation courses: introduction to social work, social welfare history and policy, human behaviour and the social environment.
• Practice skills: interviewing and assessment, case management, group work, family interventions and crisis intervention skills.
• Policy and community practice: analyses of social welfare policy, community organisation, advocacy and administration.
• Research and practice evaluation: applied research methods, programme evaluation and use of data in practice.
• Field practicum: supervised placements in local agencies providing direct practice experience across settings such as child welfare, schools, healthcare, mental health and community organisations.
• Electives and special topics: options may include substance-use practice, gerontology, trauma-informed care, working with diverse populations, and rural social work.

The programme emphasises generalist social work skills, cultural competence, ethical practice and use of evidence in decision-making. Field education is a core component, arranged through the university's community partnerships to ensure students gain hands-on experience under professional supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must meet the university's undergraduate admission standards. Admissions consider academic preparation, personal statement, and any relevant volunteer or work experience demonstrating commitment to social service.

• Successful completion of general secondary education with a competitive academic record.
• Recommended preparatory subjects include social studies, psychology, sociology and writing-intensive courses.
• Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts; students transferring general education credits may be eligible to enter the major sequence after meeting programme prerequisites.
• Admission to upper-division social work courses may require a separate application, satisfactory GPA in required coursework and faculty approval.
• Because of placement in community agencies, students must complete background checks, immunisation requirements and any agency-specific screening prior to practicum.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW enter a wide range of entry‑level social service positions across sectors. Typical roles include caseworker, child and family support worker, community outreach coordinator, school social work assistant, substance‑use support specialist and case manager in healthcare settings.

• Employment settings: public child welfare agencies, schools, community and non‑profit organisations, hospitals and mental health providers, and state social service departments.
• Professional development: many BSW graduates pursue graduate education (MSW) for clinical licensure and advanced practice roles; others build practice experience in generalist roles before postgraduate study.
• Licensure pathway: clinical social work licensure generally requires a graduate degree and supervised clinical hours; the BSW provides the foundational preparation and practicum experience valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at university of illinois springfield

UIS offers a professionally oriented BSW with an emphasis on community engagement and applied learning. The programme is taught by faculty with practice experience and strong ties to regional agencies, enabling accessible practicum placements and community-based research opportunities.

• Field education partnerships across Springfield and central Illinois provide varied practicum sites in public and non‑profit sectors.
• Small class sizes and faculty mentorship support active skills development and personalised academic advising.
• The curriculum aligns with national social work education standards and prepares students for generalist practice or for progression to graduate study.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with departments such as psychology, criminal justice and public health strengthen career readiness in diverse service settings.