University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines foundation courses in human behaviour and social systems with practice-focused classes and supervised field placements. Core topics include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare history and policy, social work practice with individuals and families, group and community interventions, research methods for social work, professional ethics and cultural competence.

• Foundation courses in sociology, psychology and introductory social work theory
• Practice courses covering assessment, intervention planning and clinical skills for working with diverse populations
• Policy and services courses addressing social welfare policy, program development and advocacy
• Research methods and evaluation to support evidence-informed practice
• Electives focused on areas such as child welfare, gerontology, substance misuse, school social work and criminal justice
• Supervised field education — a significant practicum placement in community, health care, school or government agencies to apply classroom learning in practice settings

Entry requirements

Prospective students need a secondary school diploma or equivalent and must meet the University of Mississippi undergraduate admission standards. Admission to the social work major may require a separate application to the department, satisfactory academic standing, and completion of specified prerequisite coursework such as introductory psychology or sociology.

• A competitive high school GPA or transfer record that meets university admission thresholds
• Completion of general education and any programme prerequisites as specified by the department
• Submission of transcripts and any department forms or statements of purpose required for the major
• Successful completion of background checks, health clearances or immunisation requirements may be required prior to practicum placements
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or information session as part of major admission

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW from the University of Mississippi are prepared for entry-level professional roles in public and private social service settings. Typical employment settings include child and family services, mental health agencies, community outreach programmes, schools, healthcare systems and corrections.

• Job titles often include case manager, community outreach worker, school support staff, intake worker, family support specialist and youth services coordinator
• Many BSW graduates work for non-profits, local and state government agencies, hospitals and community health centres
• Graduates who wish to provide clinical therapy or advance into leadership and specialised practice commonly pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) and licensure (such as LCSW), which opens additional roles in clinical practice, supervision and policy leadership

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers a CSWE-accredited social work curriculum grounded in community engagement and applied learning. Students benefit from close faculty mentoring, a programme designed to place them in practicum settings across the state, and opportunities to work with diverse populations in urban and rural contexts.

• Hands-on field education with local agencies that provide direct client experience and professional networking
• Faculty who combine research, policy work and clinical practice experience in areas relevant to Mississippi communities
• Interdisciplinary collaborations across public health, education and criminal justice that broaden practical learning and career options
• Support services for students including academic advising, career services and resources to prepare for graduate study and licensure pathways