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Social Work Major

Social Work Major

Program Overview

As a student in Wilmington College’s Social Work program, you will be equipped to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities, especially those in rural and underserved areas. Guided by the Quaker values of peace, integrity, and respect for all people, our program emphasizes ethical practice, community engagement, and the development of meaningful human relationships. 

You will learn to approach your work through a holistic, person-in-environment lens, helping others build on their strengths to improve well-being and overcome systemic barriers. Our curriculum emphasizes professional integrity, critical thinking, self-awareness, and real-world application. We prepare students to act with care and competence in a range of social service settings. 

Through coursework and hands-on experiences, you will engage with a wide range of populations and practice settings. Your senior-year capstone includes a 400-hour field placement, where you will learn alongside experienced social workers and apply your skills in real-world contexts. 

Social Work Mission Statement 

The mission of the Wilmington College Bachelor of Social Work program is to prepare competent, ethical, and community-centered generalist practitioners who are grounded in the core principles of the social work profession and the enduring values of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), including peace, integrity, simplicity, equality, and respect for every individual. 

The program is committed to cultivating practitioners who promote the well-being of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, especially those in rural and historically underserved regions. Students are educated to approach practice through a holistic, person-in-environment perspective that honors human dignity and promotes meaningful human relationships. 

Through an educational environment that encourages critical thinking, scientific inquiry, cultural humility, and social responsibility, the program empowers students to challenge systemic barriers, advocate for human rights, and contribute to building just and compassionate communities. Emphasis is placed on fostering the personal and professional growth of students, so they become agents of constructive change in local and global contexts. 

Licensures, Certifications and Career Pathways

Licensure 

Graduates of our BSW program qualify to apply for licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Ohio.

Certification

Optional Certification 
We offer a course sequence preparing students to become Chemical Dependency Counseling Assistants (CDCA)—a valuable credential for specialization in addiction services. 

Career Pathways

With licensure, BSW graduates can pursue roles in: 
• Child & family services
• Mental & behavioral health support
• School and youth services
• Aging and long-term care
• Substance use counseling
• Community nonprofits & advocacy
• Healthcare, criminal justice, and beyond 

Advanced Study Options 

Many of our graduates continue to an MSW program. Speak with an advisor to learn more about MSW programs that would fit your needs.  

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Major Core Curriculum

Here’s a sample of the coursework you will complete for the Social Work major.

Course NumberCourse Name
PY130 Introduction To Psychology
SS380 Research Methods And Statistics In The Social Sciences I
SW130 Introduction To Social Welfare And Social Work
SW333 Direct Practice With Diverse Clients And Communities
SW335 Human Behavior In The Social Environment
SW341 Interventions With Individuals
SW343 Interventions With Groups And Families
SW365 Macro Practice: Promoting Policy And Community Change

Degree Requirements

Program Format:
On Campus
Credits Required:
48
Time to Complete:
Four years

Apply for Licensure

Students who satisfactorily complete the undergraduate curriculum in social work are eligible to apply for licensure as a "Licensed Social Worker" in the State of Ohio.

Faculty Spotlight

Learn from faculty members who offer a diverse background of educational and professional experience. As mentors, they can help you develop your interests, network with industry contacts and find internships.

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