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

Major in Social Work at KU

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 2025 Application Dates

July 1

Application opens

Nov. 1

Freshman early action application deadline

Dec. 1

Freshman scholarship deadline

Aug. 1

Transfer 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

Guaranteed Internship

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

Student Support Services

KU social work students have access to support services including a professional writing consultant, a student support coordinator, a retention specialist and academic advisors.

Student Support Programs

Added Value Opportunities

Get involved with research, attend a summer study abroad program focusing on global social work or join the BSW student group. Students can also join school committees to have a voice in school policies and procedures.

Get Involved

A Student Perspective on Practicum

BSW student Faith Lopez shares why practicum is an important part of social work education at the University of Kansas. Lopez is completing a practicum at Sunflower Elementary School in Lawrence, as a student counselor intern.

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

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.