Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

Major in Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work degree at the KU School of Social Welfare provides the education and experience necessary for a career in social work.

Overview

By helping shape students’ capacity for caring, the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare prepares social workers to carry out the specific purposes of the profession: to develop human potential, to promote individual well-being, and to bring about a more just society.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for generalist practice at the entry level with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. The program also prepares students for advanced graduate studies in social work, as well as for degree programs in other disciplines.

Students will be able to practice competently, under professional supervision, with a variety of client systems, and at all system levels upon graduation.

BSW Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 12 hours of practicum.

BSW Degree Requirements

BSW Admissions Requirements

Students are directly admitted to the School of Social Welfare as new freshmen and transfer students at the University of Kansas.

How to Apply

Request BSW Info

Resources

How to apply

Fall 2025 Application Dates

July 1
Admissions application opens
Apply Now
Dec. 1
Freshman scholarship deadline
Freshman Scholarships
Aug. 1
Transfer scholarship deadline
Transfer Scholarships

Jobs in Social Work

Majoring in social work at KU opens doors to a broad and fast-growing career field. Popular career areas include mental and behavioral health, substance use recovery, healthcare, school social work, and nonprofit management.
A social work graduate shakes hands with the school's dean during a graduation ceremony

Built-In Internship

Social work students complete a for-credit internship — called a practicum — during their senior year. The Practicum Education Office works with students to find their practicum placement and provide an enriching experience.
A social work student poses next to a sign outside their practicum placement

Accelerated Path to a Master's Degree

Students who earn a bachelor's degree in social work can apply for the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program, and complete a master's degree in just one additional year.
Master's of social work students cheer at a graduation ceremony

Innovative Curriculum

An updated curriculum includes classes in social work theory, advocacy and research. Single-topic mini-courses focus on current social work issues.
Students listen during a social work class

Get Involved

Get involved with research, attend a summer study abroad program focusing on global social work, or join the BSW student group. Students can join school committees to have a voice in school policies and procedures.
Students pose in front of a waterfall while studying abroad in Costa Rica

Supportive Community

KU social work students have access to support services including a professional writing consultant, a student support coordinator, a retention specialist and academic advisors.
A professor helps a student make a button during a welcome event

Social Work Major Timeline

Your 4-Year Guide for Majoring in Social Work at KU
Follow our timeline to preview classes, involvement opportunities and more.
BSW Timeline

Social Work Student Stories

BSW Student Spotlight: Manuel Turk

BSW Student Spotlight: Manuel Turk

“I see social workers and veterans have some similarities, particularly in being resilient,” said Turk, who served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. “There are a lot of things we have to deal with, and we don’t always have all the resources, so we do the best that we can with what we have available to us.”
Olivia Sourivong waves to family and friends at the KU School of Social Welfare graduation ceremony

Graduating Social Welfare students reflect on journey through program

Olivia Sourivong and Ella Hinson share the opportunities and the people they met through the School of Social Welfare.
Student spotlight: Allison Monteleone

BSW Student Spotlight: Allison Monteleone

Allison Monteleone decided to major in social work to create change in the world. Read about her experiences as a social work student, BSW Student Ambassador and undergraduate research scholar.
Thomas Way, left, and Ella Hinson, right

Two KU Social Welfare students join state social work boards

Two KU social work students are representing their BSW peers on state boards of the National Association of Social Workers. Ella Hinson is on the NASW-Kansas board and Thomas Way is on the NASW-Missouri board.

Study Social Work at KU

KU's School of Social Welfare offers social work degree programs at undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels: BSW, MSW, DSW and PhD. Learn more.
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