Ferris State University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines liberal arts coursework with professional social work content to develop knowledge, values and skills for generalist practice. Core areas of study typically include human behaviour and the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice methods, research methods, diversity and cultural competence, ethics, and lifespan development.

• Foundations and liberal studies: communication, psychology, sociology and statistics to provide a broad base for practice.
• Core social work courses: Introduction to Social Work, Human Behaviour in the Social Environment, Social Welfare Policy, Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families, Group Work, Community and Organisational Practice.
• Specialist topics: courses that may cover child and family services, gerontology, mental health and substance use, child welfare, and trauma-informed care.
• Research and evaluation: coursework in social work research methods and program evaluation to prepare students to use evidence in practice.
• Field education (practicum): supervised placement in community agencies or health settings where students complete practicum hours and apply classroom learning to real-world cases under the guidance of a qualified field instructor.

The programme is organised over four years for full-time students, with introductory and general education courses in the early years and professional concentration and practicum placements in the junior and senior years.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and meeting the university's admission standards for GPA and academic preparation. Applicants should have completed coursework in English and social studies; recommended preparation includes psychology, sociology and statistics where available.

• Submission of a standard undergraduate application to Ferris State University and official high school transcripts.
• Some programmes ask for a personal statement or essay describing interest in social work and relevant experiences.
• Relevant volunteer, work or community involvement in human services is advantageous and demonstrates commitment to the field.
• Successful completion of any programme-specific screening or interview may be required for progression into practicum courses; students should also expect background checks and immunisation requirements prior to field placements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW are prepared for entry-level social work positions in a wide range of settings. Typical roles include caseworker or case manager, community outreach worker, juvenile probation or corrections support staff, child welfare worker, ageing and geriatric services assistant, and roles in non-profit organisations, hospitals and public health departments.

Many employers value the BSW for direct practice roles in agencies serving families, children, older adults and people with behavioural health needs. Graduates who wish to provide clinical therapy or attain advanced licensure commonly continue to an accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) programme, where the BSW can also provide advanced standing in some MSW programmes.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State emphasises applied, career-oriented education with strong links to regional health and human service agencies, providing students with practical field placement opportunities and direct experience in community settings. Faculty in the social work programme often bring practitioner backgrounds and active community partnerships that support supervised practicum placements.

The university offers student support services focused on career preparation, including advising, practicum coordination and connections to internships and employers in the region. For students seeking a career-focused pathway into social services or a foundation for graduate social work, Ferris State provides a structured professional curriculum combined with hands-on learning in local agencies.