Why Major in Social Work?
The BSW in Social Work at Eastern University educates students to become knowledgeable, ethical, and skilled generalist social work practitioners. We are committed to teaching students to become compassionate agents of God’s mercy and justice in meeting common human needs, with particular attention to people who are vulnerable, living in poverty, and who are oppressed.
The field of social work helps people in a variety of ways. There are many opportunities to make a difference providing case management, counseling, advocacy/community engagement, or program development within child welfare, court systems/domestic abuse, drug & alcohol/mental health, housing services, human trafficking coalitions, nursing/rehab facilities, refugee resettlement, school systems, and shelters.
“As a graduate of the BSW program I find myself thoroughly prepared for my career. I am confident in my ability to navigate ethical decision-making processes and to promote my client’s dignity, worth, and right to self-determination. I am also empowered to advocate the just treatment of all individuals regardless of whether they think, act, speak, pray, or look like me.”
Why Eastern?
- Integration of Christian faith and social work practice: With a BSW from Eastern University, students learn the importance of integrating a Christian worldview and social work practice. They are given the necessary skills to become competent and compassionate social work practitioners that bring about God’s mercy and justice.
- High quality, innovative teaching and mentoring: Through caring faculty and rigorous classes, students are fully prepared for the next steps in the social work field.
- Accreditation: The department has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education since 1974 (the earliest year available).
- Social Work Internships: At Eastern, students complete internships in two agencies under the supervision of professional social workers while enrolled in social work courses. Internships are available at agencies to choose from, throughout the greater Philadelphia area, giving students first-hand practice experience.
- Student Social Work Association (SSWA): The SSWA focuses on building community among social work students while offering formal and informal activities, student learning, and service opportunities.
- MSW advanced standing: When a student maintains a B average, they can be admitted to an MSW, advanced standing program. Advanced standing allows for completion of the MSW in one year.
Admission to the (BSW) Social Work program
After declaring the social work major and completing the introductory social work courses, students complete an admissions process (typically in the spring of the Sophomore year/fall of the junior year for transfer students) as required by our accrediting body, CSWE. The student will be contacted by the Social Work Department about the application to the program. This process includes submission of an application, resume, essays, and recommendations. Following admission into the professional phase of the social work program, students will begin 3 semesters of internships. There are varied settings to choose from in locations throughout the Philadelphia area.
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State Authorizations
Please check the State Authorizations page to determine if Eastern University’s program fulfills your state credentialing requirements. Students who seek similar credentialing in states other than Pennsylvania are advised to contact the appropriate credentialing agency within their home state to seek information and additional guidance about credentialing in your state of residence. Additional state or local requirements may exist for field placements or practica in this state. Out-of-state student placements/practica cannot be guaranteed by the program or the College of Health and Sciences. Students are responsible for following all state and local requirements and regulations for their field placement/practica coursework.
