Seattle University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Social Work blends liberal arts foundations with professional coursework and supervised field education. In the early years you will study core liberal arts subjects alongside introductory social work topics such as social welfare history, foundations of social work practice and human development across the lifespan. Core modules typically include:

• Human Behaviour and the Social Environment — theories of development and systems that affect individuals and families.
• Social Welfare Policy — history and contemporary analysis of public policy, advocacy and service systems.
• Generalist Social Work Practice — engagement, assessment, intervention and evaluation across practice settings.
• Research Methods — quantitative and qualitative skills for evidence‑informed practice.
• Populations and Issues — modules on child and family welfare, mental health, substance misuse, homelessness and cultural competence.
• Field Education (Practicum) — extended, supervised placements in community agencies, schools, clinics or hospitals; usually completed in the junior and senior years.
• Electives and Integrative Seminars — options to study community organising, restorative justice, trauma‑informed practice and indigenous or global social work perspectives.

The programme emphasises applied learning: classroom instruction is closely integrated with practicum hours, reflective seminars and community‑based projects. Graduates will have foundational competencies for generalist practice and readiness for postgraduate study if they choose to pursue clinical licensure.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record. Admissions take into account overall GPA, grades in English and social science subjects, and demonstrated commitment to service or community involvement.

• High school completion with strong performance in relevant subjects (English, social studies); specific GPA expectations vary and are set by the university admissions office.
• Personal statement or essay describing interest in social work, relevant experience and commitment to social justice.
• One or more academic or professional references may be requested.
• Transfer applicants should present college transcripts; prior coursework in introductory social sciences or social work can be helpful for advanced standing.
• Some students may be invited to an interview or information session as part of the programme selection process.

Because field placements involve working with vulnerable populations, successful applicants must meet background check and health/ immunisation requirements as set by placement agencies and the university.

Career prospects

A Bachelor of Social Work prepares graduates for entry‑level professional roles in a wide range of human service settings. Common roles include caseworker, community outreach worker, youth worker, family support specialist, residential treatment worker and school support staff. Graduates find employment in:

• public child welfare agencies and family services
• mental health and substance use treatment programmes
• schools, juvenile justice and youth services
• healthcare settings, hospitals and clinics
• non‑profit organisations and community development organisations

Many BSW graduates go on to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) to qualify for clinical licensure (such as licenced social worker credentials) and advanced practice roles in counselling, clinical social work or leadership. The programme’s practicum experience and community partnerships also support graduates seeking roles in policy, advocacy and programme management.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University is a Jesuit university that emphasises social justice, civic engagement and ethical leadership — values that align closely with social work practice. The university’s location in Seattle provides direct access to a diverse array of social service agencies, public health organisations and non‑profits, enabling rich practicum placements and community partnerships.

• Faculty with professional practice experience and a commitment to mentoring undergraduate social work students.
• Strong emphasis on field education and service learning, with supervised placements embedded in the curriculum.
• Opportunities to engage with urban social issues, advocacy initiatives and interdisciplinary collaboration across health, education and public policy.
• A supportive campus environment with advising, career services and resources to prepare students for licensure pathways or postgraduate study.

Together, the academic curriculum, practical placements and community engagement make Seattle University’s BSW suitable for students seeking a professionally oriented degree grounded in social justice and community impact.