What is social work?
Social work students learn how to assist individuals and groups to effectively identify and obtain resources, skills and tools to function optimally within their environment. They often work with vulnerable populations and provide support, resources, and advocacy to empower people to navigate social, emotional, and financial difficulties.
What classes will I take?
Social work students learn foundational skills to assess, intervene and evaluate client needs. The program teaches student theories of practice and applicable skills when working across any system. This includes classes such as:
- Introduction to Social Work Practice
- Social Justice & Social Policy
- Interaction Skills Workshop
- Understanding Personality in a Social Context
View a full list of required classes.
Are there experiential learning opportunities?
Yes! The University of Missouri believes in learning by doing. As part of the BSW program, students are required to complete a 400-hour practicum at an agency of their choice. This hands-on opportunity allows students to gain real-world experience while preparing to enter the workforce.
One option for completing the practicum is the School of Social Work’s Integrative Behavioral Health Clinic — a student-led and student-operated clinic that provides comprehensive mental health care for individuals facing barriers to services.
The School of Social Work also offers study abroad opportunities in Costa Rica and Greece. Learn more about hands-on learning for social work students.
Become a social work major
You can pursue a social work degree at any point in your career at MU. To begin the professional phase of the Social Work program, students must complete a secondary application and receive admission.
- New students: Apply to MU and choose Social Work – Pre-Social Work as your major.
- Current students: Declare or change your major.
Frequently asked questions
A major in social work is ideal for students who are compassionate, driven by a desire to help alleviate hardships and barriers for others, and passionate about promoting social justice. If you have strong communication and interpersonal skills, an interest in human behavior, and a desire for a diverse career path, social work could be a great fit for you!
A bachelor’s degree in social work prepares you for entry-level careers in social justice policy, mental health counseling, criminal justice and legal systems, elder care, disability support, child and family welfare, violence prevention and a variety of other career fields. Learn more about careers in social work.
BSW graduates also pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Mizzou BSW graduates are eligible to apply for advanced standing status in the Mizzou MSW program, allowing students to finish their BSW and MSW within five years.
Mizzou’s Social Work degree prepares you for your future by offering customizable course plans that allow you to tailor your studies to match your career goals, such as addiction treatment and prevention, deaf culture, domestic violence, and more.
Students also complete a practicum in an area of interest, preparing students for their future careers. The 400-hour practicum takes place at an agency of your choice and allows you to apply what you have learned in the classroom to the real-world.
This program has a secondary application. Students typically apply to the clinical phase of the program during their sophomore year. Learn more about the BSW secondary application process.
Yes! This program may be completed full-time on campus or part-time online. The online BSW program option allows students to finish their undergraduate degree while working full time. Learn more about the online BSW degree.
Program accreditation
Yes. The University of Missouri’s Social Work program is accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE ensures the program provides educational programming that aligns with the core values and ethics of the profession. Every seven years the program must demonstrate adherence to CSWE standards. Learn more about Mizzou BSW program accreditation.
Institutional accreditation
University of Missouri institutional accreditation is provided by:
The Higher Learning Commission
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60602-2504
Phone: 800-621-7440
See the University of Missouri Provost’s Office website for professional licensure disclosure information.