Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

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Ready to pursue your degree in social work at KU? Schedule a visit, sign up for an info session and request more information.

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Overview

The School of Social Welfare provides the education and experience necessary for a career in social work.

By helping shape students’ capacity for caring, the school 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 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 work 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.

Fall Application Dates

Nov. 1

Freshman early action application deadline

Dec. 1

Priority freshman scholarship deadline

May 1

Freshman and Transfer fall admission and scholarship deadline

Apply Today

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

How to Apply How to Apply

Scholarships & Funding Scholarships & Funding

Innovative Curriculum

KU BSW students take innovative courses, created to dig deeper into subjects that matter. An updated curriculum, introduced in 2022, connects to the School’s leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion. Students choose from deep-dive mini-courses on topics directly related to current social work practice.

BSW Curriculum

Students and field education instructors sit in a group while visiting an agency

Real-World Experience

BSW students have one required practicum, or internship, during the senior year that provides students with a real-world learning experience in a safe environment.

Practicum Education

Support for a Successful Journey

Three KU BSW students pose for a photo at graduation

Individualized Support

BSW students attend required academic advising and receive individualized practicum support. Students attend a required orientation before starting upper-level social work classes, and a practicum orientation.

Student Success Programs

Students talk with a professor during a poster presentation for the social work program at KU

Added Value Opportunities

Get involved with research, attend a summer study abroad program focusing on global social work, join the BSW student group, or take advantage of the numerous opportunities to provide input and help shape and improve school policies and procedures.

Get Involved

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The School of Social Welfare strives to be a leader in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within the university and in our community. Student opportunities include the Toni Johnson Racial and Social Justice Scholars Program, DEI Council and events throughout the year.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Social Work is Social Justice

How do you want to make an impact on the world? We invite all incoming students to state their vision of justice — big or small.

Start your career in social work

BSW graduates will be prepared to sit for the Kansas LBSW licensing exam and start practicing immediately. Learn about our graduates' success.

Licensing & Career Options

85 years running

KU School of Social Welfare is the longest running accredited social work program in Kansas. KU is the only program in the state to offer degree preparation from undergraduate through doctoral degrees in social work.