Land Acknowledgement

The School of Social Welfare acknowledges that the University of Kansas occupies land that has been cared for by several tribal nations.

This land acknowledgment recognizes that Indigenous people are traditional guardians of the land and that there is an enduring relationship between Indigenous peoples and these traditional territories. Our School affirms, advocates for, and supports the sovereignty of the four-federally recognized tribes of Kansas, and the other 570 federally recognized nations in the U.S.

The acknowledgment reminds us to continue our commitment to advocating for, and supporting Indigenous students, staff, and faculty while working towards decolonizing the systems of power and oppression. Please visit the Land Acknowledgment webpage for a listing of our current actions of commitment.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

Visit Us and Learn More

The School of Social Welfare is offering in-person visits in coordination with the Office of Admissions.

Schedule a Visit Schedule a Visit

78%

of bachelor's students graduate in four years

100%

of BSWs are employed or continuing their education after graduation

88%

BSW grads pass licensure compared to 78% nationally

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 with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities at the entry level. The program 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

Feb. 1

Freshman FAFSA priority 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

Advancement Review Advancement Review

Financial Aid Financial Aid

Unique Curricula

The curriculum prepares students for the professional responsibilities of social work and helps them acquire the skills needed for effective social work practice. The unique curricula is reflective of community needs and designed to prepare students for the changing world of social work.

Curriculum

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.

Field Education

Support for a Successful Journey

Individualized Support

Required academic advising each semester, all students receive professional and faculty advising, 32,575 hours/year of individualized field practicum support, and all programs and field hold required orientations each year.

Advising & Support

Added Value Opportunities

Students engaged in research, three faculty-led study abroad locations focusing on global social work, pathways to the professional series, active BSW Student group, numerous opportunities to provide input and help shape and improve school policies and procedures.

Get Involved

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The Toni Johnson Racial and Social Justice Scholars Program, Multicultural Scholars Program, DEI Council, more than 100 events with specific focus on social justice topics, annual DEI end of the year celebrations, culture that acknowledges, supports, and honors diversity.

The Toni Johnson Center

Social Work is Social Justice

How do you want to make an impact on the world? We support, encourage and collaborate with all of our partners to create change and free the world of injustices.

VISION OF JUSTICE BOARD

Want to help others

By 2030, there will be a total shortfall of 195,000 social workers nationally.

Licensing & Career Options

83 years running

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