Cost & earnings at Indiana University Bloomington What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Social Work graduates earn a median $32,249 Across 622 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor’s in Social Work at Indiana University Bloomington is a professional undergraduate degree that prepares students for direct practice with individuals, families and communities as well as entry to graduate social work study. It suits students committed to social justice, helping professions and community-based practice who want a mix of classroom learning, research methods and supervised field experience.
The BSW combines foundation liberal-arts study with a focused social work curriculum. Core topics include human behaviour and the social environment, social welfare history and policy, research methods and statistics for social work, and ethical frameworks for practice. Practice courses teach engagement, assessment, intervention and evaluation across practice levels (individuals, families, groups and communities). The programme places a strong emphasis on cultural competence, anti-oppressive practice, and working with diverse populations.
Structured field education is central to the degree: students complete supervised practicum placements in community agencies, schools, health and mental-health settings, child and family services, and other social service organisations. Typical modules and topics you will encounter include:
Applicants require a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and completion of general university admission requirements. The School of Social Work typically asks applicants to meet the university’s undergraduate entry standards and to complete certain prerequisites such as college-level English and introductory social science courses. You should demonstrate academic readiness and a clear commitment to social work values; some form of reflective statement or personal essay describing relevant experience and motivation is often required by the programme.
Because practicum placements involve work with vulnerable people, successful admission and progression may be conditional on background checks and health or immunisation requirements. Transfer students and those already enrolled at Indiana University may need to apply to the social work major once they have completed specified prerequisite coursework and a minimum number of credit hours.
Graduates with a BSW typically enter frontline social service roles where they provide direct client support, case management and community-based interventions. Common entry-level positions include child and family caseworker, school social worker assistant, community outreach worker, mental-health support worker, and roles in probation or juvenile services. BSW holders are also prepared for positions in non-profit organisations, health-care agencies and local government.
Many graduates use the BSW as a stepping stone to postgraduate study: the degree often meets eligibility for advanced-standing entry to MSW programmes, which enables quicker progression to clinical licensing and specialised professional roles. Career pathways include clinical social work, policy and programme management, research, and leadership positions in human services.
Indiana University Bloomington offers a BSW within a School of Social Work that blends classroom teaching with extensive field education in the local region. Students benefit from faculty who are active in applied research and community partnerships, providing opportunities to engage in research projects and evidence-informed practice. The university’s large campus and connections across state agencies and non-profit organisations support diverse practicum placements and networking.
Additional strengths include access to campus-wide resources—career services, advising, and interdisciplinary study options—which help students tailor their degree with relevant electives and prepare for licensure or graduate study. For those aiming to continue in social work, the programme provides a solid academic and practical foundation that aligns with professional standards and community needs.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.