Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum provides a foundation in social work theory, ethics and practice combined with research, policy and human behaviour coursework. Common topics and modules include:

• Social work practice with individuals, families and groups, emphasising assessment, intervention and culturally competent methods.
• Human behaviour and the social environment covering lifespan development and systems perspectives.
• Social welfare policy and services exploring the history, organisation and impact of public and private social welfare systems.
• Research methods and statistics focusing on practice-informed research, program evaluation and use of evidence in decision making.
• Field practicum – integrated supervised placements in community agencies that allow application of classroom learning to real-world practice settings.
• Electives and specialised topics such as child and family services, aging and gerontology, mental health, substance use, and community organising.

Coursework emphasises ethical practice, cultural humility, client advocacy and interprofessional collaboration. Students typically progress from introductory foundation courses to advanced practice and practicum experiences in the later years.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and must meet Middle Tennessee State University’s general admission standards. Programme-specific expectations commonly include a competitive overall GPA and completion of introductory coursework such as English, mathematics (often a statistics requirement), and social sciences (for example psychology or sociology).

• Successful completion of university admission and any placement testing required by MTSU.
• Prerequisite or introductory courses in social science, communication and college-level writing are recommended.
• Some programmes require a separate application to the social work major, which may ask for a personal statement, references and evidence of commitment to social work values.
• Because of field placement requirements, students should be prepared for background checks, health screenings or immunisations as required by community agencies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW enter a wide range of entry-level social service roles in government, healthcare, schools and non-profit organisations. Typical job titles and pathways include:

• Case manager or care coordinator in child welfare, mental health or ageing services.
• Community outreach worker, program specialist or advocacy coordinator with non-profit organisations.
• Residential or crisis services staff in shelters, substance-use programmes or juvenile services.
• School support personnel and family-service liaisons.
• Employment in corrections, probation and re-entry programmes.

Many BSW graduates also pursue graduate study (MSW) to qualify for clinical licensure, supervisory roles or specialised practice areas. The BSW provides a recognised generalist foundation that may allow for advanced standing in some MSW programmes.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU offers a BSW grounded in community-engaged learning and applied practicum experiences in the Murfreesboro and greater Middle Tennessee region. Students benefit from applied learning through partnerships with local agencies, faculty who maintain practice connections, and resources on campus that support professional development and licensure preparation.

• Hands-on field placements that connect students with a variety of practice settings across health, education and human services.
• Faculty with professional practice backgrounds who teach courses and supervise practicum learning.
• Opportunities for volunteerism, student clubs and community projects that build practical skills and professional networks.

The programme is designed to prepare ethically minded, practice-ready graduates who can work in diverse settings or continue into advanced social work education.