University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The BSW combines liberal‑arts coursework with professional social work content and supervised field education. Core topics include human development and behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, practice methods with individuals, families, groups and communities, research methods, ethics, and anti‑oppressive practice.

• Foundations: introductory social work, history of the profession, diversity and cultural competence.
• Practice courses: assessment and intervention across the lifespan, clinical and community practice approaches, family systems, crisis intervention.
• Policy and advocacy: social welfare policy analysis, community organisation, programme planning and evaluation.
• Research and evaluation: basic statistics, research design and evidence‑informed practice.
• Specialist topics: child and family services, aging and gerontology, mental health and substance use, school social work and corrections/social justice practice.
• Field education: supervised practicum placements in community agencies or clinical settings, typically undertaken in the later years of the degree to integrate classroom learning with direct practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent and meet the University of Minnesota's undergraduate admission standards. Typical preparation includes strong coursework in English and social studies; background in psychology, sociology, or biology is advantageous.

• A competitive academic record at secondary level; exact GPA or curriculum requirements are set by university admissions.
• A personal statement outlining interest in social work, relevant volunteer or paid experience with people or communities, and commitment to social justice.
• Letters of recommendation and a résumé may be requested as part of the department review for admission to the major.
• Some applicants may be admitted to the university and then apply to the social work major, which can be selective; transfer applicants should confirm how prior coursework maps to major requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry‑level social work positions across public and private sectors. Common roles include caseworker, child welfare worker, school support staff, community outreach coordinator, medical social work assistant, mental health support worker, and programme or policy assistant in non‑profits and government agencies.

Many BSW holders pursue graduate study (MSW) to qualify for clinical licensure and advanced practice. Employers value the BSW for its combination of practice skills and supervised field experience, and the degree provides pathways into community organising, programme management, policy advocacy, and research support roles.

Why study at University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota's School of Social Work is embedded within a large research university that offers extensive field placement networks across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota, enabling students to gain experience in rural, urban and tribal settings. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with departments such as public health, education and law, access to faculty engaged in community‑based research, and a broad alumni network in social service organisations.

The programme emphasises culturally responsive, evidence‑informed practice and prepares students for both immediate employment and continued professional development. Support services such as career advising, practicum placement coordination and student organisations help translate classroom learning into practical career pathways.