University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines liberal‑arts general education with professional social work courses and a substantial supervised field practicum in community agencies. Study begins with foundational topics such as introduction to social work, human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and ethics. Core practice courses cover assessment and intervention with individuals and families, group work, community practice and services for specific populations (children and families, older adults, people with mental health or substance use needs).

• Typical modules: Introduction to Social Work; Human Behaviour and the Social Environment; Social Welfare Policy and Services; Research Methods for Social Work; Practice with Individuals and Families; Group and Community Practice; Diversity, Oppression and Social Justice; Ethics in Social Work Practice.
• Specialist topics and electives: Child Welfare Practice, Mental Health Practice, Substance Use Intervention, Gerontology, School‑based Services, Crisis Intervention and Trauma‑informed Care.
• Field education: A supervised practicum in a community, health or public agency is a central component of the degree, giving students applied experience in assessment, case management, advocacy and inter‑professional teamwork.
• Capstone and research: The programme typically includes research methods and a culminating integrative experience that connects evidence‑based practice to fieldwork.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an appropriate secondary school qualification with a competitive academic record. Admissions consider grades, a personal statement describing interest in social work and relevant volunteer or paid experience. Some prerequisite college or high‑school coursework in English and social sciences is helpful.

• Admission to the university is followed by program‑specific requirements; some students enter the social work major after completing introductory prerequisites and a review by the department.
• Because students will work with vulnerable populations during placements, clearances such as a background check and immunisation compliance may be required prior to practicum.
• Strong applicants demonstrate communication skills, cultural awareness, ethical commitment and readiness for practicum learning; letters of recommendation may be requested.

Career prospects

BSW graduates are prepared for entry‑level professional roles in a wide range of human services settings. Many go on to roles in child welfare, community outreach, case management, crisis intervention, mental health support, homelessness services, school support roles and ageing services. Employers include non‑profit organisations, local and state government agencies, healthcare providers and schools.

For clinical licensure and advanced clinical practice (for example becoming a licensed clinical social worker), graduates typically pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW). The BSW also provides a strong foundation for careers in policy, programme coordination, advocacy, research assistance and for graduate study in related fields.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a BSW within a campus environment that emphasises applied learning and community engagement. Students benefit from established partnerships with social service agencies across an urban region, enabling diverse and meaningful practicum placements. The programme is taught by faculty who combine academic scholarship with practice experience and who support student development from classroom learning to field competency.

In addition to practicum opportunities, students have access to university career services, academic advising specific to the social work major and interdisciplinary collaborations across health and human services departments. The urban setting and community links make the University of Cincinnati particularly strong for students seeking hands‑on experience and pathways into local public, nonprofit and healthcare organisations.