Program Overview

University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Social Work

The University of Alabama at Birmingham's Department of Social Work is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive education in social work practice, preparing them for careers in a variety of settings.

Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) Program

The BSSW program prepares graduates for generalist-level social work practice with diverse populations, using varied practice roles and change processes that are directed toward strength-based problem solving and enhanced social functioning.

• The program includes a field practicum in which students obtain hands-on experience in a social service agency under the direct supervision of a professional.
• The field practicum is vital to the professional nature of the degree and distinguishes social work from academic degrees in related fields.
• Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work will be prepared to enter the social work profession at entry-level in a variety of practice settings, such as mental health, child welfare, and healthcare.

BSSW Program Mission

The mission of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Bachelor of Science in Social Work program is to prepare students for generalist social work practice with diverse populations in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, emphasizing social and economic justice for populations at risk.

BSSW Program Goals

The program goals reflect the values, ethics, and knowledge base of generalist social work practice and are linked to the purpose of the social work profession and its values as outlined by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

1. To enhance both the domestic and global community by graduating entry-level social workers who are professional, ethical, and competent to provide generalist practice services to individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations with emphasis on populations at risk.
2. To prepare students to pursue and excel in advanced social work education and lifelong learning for professional social work practice.
3. To develop students' capacity to apply knowledge skills from research and policy practice to guide and evaluate generalist, evidence-informed social work.
4. To advance social and economic justice by educating students to advocate for human rights that enhance social functioning and well-being for all.

Professional Licensure and Certifications

The UAB Bachelor of Science in Social Work program prepares students to practice in a field with professional licensure through the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Social Work Regulation. Specific licensure requirements vary from state to state, and among territories.

Graduate Programs

The Department of Social Work also offers graduate programs for students who wish to pursue advanced degrees in social work.

• The graduate program provides students with advanced training in social work practice, research, and policy.
• Students can choose from a variety of specializations, including clinical social work, community organization, and social policy.

Resources

For more information about the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Department of Social Work, please visit their website.