Social Work (BSW)
The School of Social Work Bachelor in Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The program advances the ideals of economic and social justice, through an enriched curriculum, innovative research and transformative learning. The primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic human needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty.
Social Work specializes in environmental forces that create, contribute to, and address problems in living.
Social workers promote social justice and social change with and on behalf of clients. Clients is used inclusively to refer to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are sensitive to cultural and ethnic diversity and strive to end discrimination, oppression, poverty, and other forms of social injustice.
Activities may be in the form of direct practice, community organizing, supervision, consultation, administration, advocacy, social and political action, policy development and implementation, education, and research and evaluation.
Social Work Core Values
The mission of the social work profession is rooted in the National Association of Social Workers core values. These core values, embraced by social workers throughout the profession’s history, are the foundation of social work’s unique purpose and perspective:
- service
- social justice
- dignity and worth of the person
- importance of human relationships
- integrity
- competence
Careers in Social Work
Social workers play an important role in helping people manage and overcome social and economic challenges, in addition to advocating for change in their communities. Individuals who have a strong desire to improve the lives of people they encounter on the job often find social work to be a rewarding career. Careers in Social Work include: School Counselor, Case Manager, Child Welfare Social Worker, Therapist, Behavioral Analyst, Hospital Social Worker, Professor, Politician, etc.
Bachelor in Social Work - Admission Requirements
Students may declare Social Work as a pre-major and are eligible for formal admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program sophomore year.
- Completion SOW 201 Career Choice Human Serv Professional
- Grade Point Average (GPA) 2.0 or higher
- Submit a personal statement or video answering the following:
- Describe your motivation(s) for becoming a social worker.
- Describe any employment, volunteer, or life experiences that prepared you to pursue social work.
- What strengths do you bring to professional social work practice?
- Describe your long-term career goals?
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work CORE | 60 | |
| SOW 201 | Intr. ro Soc. Work Prac w/ Pra | 3 |
| SOW 210 | Alcohol and Substance Prob | 3 |
| GNT 101 | Intro to Gerontology | 3 |
| SOW 301 | Soc. Work Prac. w/ Pra. for Jr | 3 |
| SOW 306 | Human Behavior I | 3 |
| SOW 307 | Human Behavior II | 3 |
| SOW 310 | Cultural Inc. & Soc. Justice | 3 |
| SOW 314 | Generalist Practice I | 3 |
| SOW 315 | Generalist Practice II | 3 |
| SOW 316 | Generalist Practice III | 3 |
| SOW 321 | Policy I | 3 |
| SOW 322 | Policy II | 3 |
| SOW 400 | Statistics for Social Work | 3 |
| SOW 401 | Research Methods Social Work | 3 |
| SOW 422 | Soc. Work Pr. w/ Pra. for Sr I | 6 |
| SOW 423 | Social Work Seminar I | 3 |
| SOW 424 | Soc. Work Pr. w/ Pra for Sr II | 6 |
| SOW 425 | Social Work Seminar II | 3 |
| Social Work Support Courses | 3 | |
| SOW 308 | Dynamics Marriage/Family | 3 |
| or SOW 352 | Child Abuse & Neglect | |
| or SOW 353 | Child Abuse Interventions | |
SOW 100: Social Work & Pers. Wellness
This course introduces students to the principles of social work and the importance of personal wellness. Students will explore topics such as mental health, self-care, community engagement, and social responsibility. Through interactive activities and discussions, students will learn strategies to support their own well-being and contribute positively to their communities. The course aims to foster empathy, resilience, and a proactive approach to personal and social challenges.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 101: Social Work & Teenage Par. Sk.
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of social work and essential parenting skills. Emphasizing empathy, communication, and cultural sensitivity, it explores topics such as child development, family dynamics, and advocacy for diverse communities. Students will develop practical tools for fostering personal wellness, healthy relationships, and social responsibility.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 102: Food & Nut. w/a SWK Pers.
This course introduces students to essential concepts of nutrition and wellness, exploring topics such as healthy eating habits, food justice, and sustainability. Students will develop practical skills for making informed dietary decisions while engaging with social work principles to address food-related challenges in their communities.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 201: Intr. ro Soc. Work Prac w/ Pra
An overview of professional practice for potential Social Work majors. Exposes students to various professional roles and encourages examination of Social Work as a career.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 210: Alcohol and Substance Prob
This course addresses issues relating to alcohol and other substances. Special emphasis is placed on cultural and socio-economic facts that impact substance abuse.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 301: Soc. Work Prac. w/ Pra. for Jr
This course equips junior-level students with foundational skills for effective social work practice. Through a combination of classroom instruction and field-based practicum experiences, students develop competencies in engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation, adhering to professional and ethical standards. Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical frameworks to realworld scenarios, fostering critical thinking, and enhancing advocacy and community engagement skills.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 306: Human Behavior I
Analyzes the development and behavior of persons from conception through young adulthood: biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors are examined.
Prerequisite: SOW 201 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 307: Human Behavior II
A continuation of Human Behavior I, this course examines human growth and development from middle/adulthood through old age.
Prerequisite: SOW 306 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 308: Dynamics Marriage/Family
An examination of diversity and change in marriage, family life, and women’s roles and status, identifying areas of concern to helping professionals.
Prerequisite: SOC 203 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 310: Cultural Inc. & Soc. Justice
Provides the theoretical foundation for generalist practice, applying systems thinking to activities in the human services. Examines Social Work functions and tasks for effective service delivery.
Prerequisite: SOW 201 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 314: Generalist Practice I
Provides students an opportunity to develop skills in communication, interviewing, purposeful observation, recording, problem identification, and record keeping.
Prerequisite: SOW 310 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 315: Generalist Practice II
Development of techniques and skills in problem/solving with families, groups, communities, and organizations. Selected frameworks for Social Work intervention are explored.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 316: Generalist Practice III
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 321: Policy I
Historical and philosophical development of social welfare as an institution and Social Work as a profession. Policy structures of public and private agencies are examined.
Prerequisite: SOW 201 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 322: Policy II
Analysis and interpretation of social welfare policies, programs and issues. Examines the influence of movements, ideologies, political conditions, and sociocultural attitudes on social welfare.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 352: Child Abuse & Neglect
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to child abuse and neglect from a Social Work perspective. Social workers in all professional work settings must know how to identify child maltreatment and domestic violence. Students will learn the family dynamics and indicators of maltreatment and effective interventions on the micro and macro level. Additionally, students will learn the extent of the problem, effects on children, treatment issues, the social worker’s role in a multidisciplinary team approach, and how to advocate for individuals and families.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 353: Child Abuse Interventions
This course focuses on interventions to protect children from neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse by strengthening, supporting and empowering their families. The course explores the history, mission, and scope of child welfare services and practice, including the underlying philosophy and values that drive child welfare practice, and addressing cultural and relationship issues when working with families. The course covers conceptual and practical information on identifying child maltreatment; assessing family needs and strengths; determining the level of risk to children for future maltreatment; case planning; applying a casework model to working with families; interviewing skills in a child welfare setting and integrating the use of professional authority in these activities.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 371: Introduction to Public Health
A survey course that develops an understanding and appreciation for factors affecting health status and its contribution to individual and community health.
Prerequisite: HED 221 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 400: Statistics for Social Work
This course serves as an introduction to the use of statistics as a method of describing and analyzing data from research in Social Work with an emphasis on applied methods.
Prerequisite: A background in basic algebra
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 401: Research Methods Social Work
Introduces the basic logic, knowledge, and skills of research design and methodology in Social Work.
Prerequisite: SOW 400 or consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 422: Soc. Work Pr. w/ Pra. for Sr I
An educational experience under faculty direction in an approved social service agency. Students work approximately 24 hours per week providing services to various client systems.
Prerequisite: Admission to Social Work Program
Credit Hours: 6
Contact Hours: 6
SOW 423: Social Work Seminar I
Corequisite: SOW 422. Students integrate knowledge, values, and skills learned in the classroom with their practice experience in an agency.
Prerequisite: SOW 322 and consent of faculty
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 424: Soc. Work Pr. w/ Pra for Sr II
Under faculty supervision, students work 24 hours per week in an approved social service agency.
Credit Hours: 6
Contact Hours: 6
SOW 425: Social Work Seminar II
Taken in conjunction with SOW 424. Students are offered an opportunity to refine skills in problem/solving as a final preparation for professional practice.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 430: Child Welfare Services
An historical analysis of child welfare as an institution and an in/depth study of programs, policies, practices, and their impact on children, youth, and families.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 433: Research Methods for Soc Work
An in-depth research effort. To include an introduction to basic logic, knowledge and skills of research design and methodology.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 434: Statistics for Social Work
This course serves as an introduction to the use of statistics as a method of describing and analyzing data for research in criminal justice with an emphasis on applied methods. (Three hours of lecture, on hour of laboratory per week)
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 435: Statistics for Social Work
This course serves as an introduction to the use of statistics as a method of describing and analyzing data form research in Social Work with an emphasis on applied methods.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 497: Special Topics in Social Work
A seminar for the discussion of specific topics concerning Rehabilitation Counseling offered by the University of Kentucky. May be repeated for credit no more than four times (12 hours of credit).
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 502: Ethic. Foun. & Prac. in Soc Wk
This course explores the ethical principles and standards that guide social work practice. Students will examine the complexities of ethical decision-making, the role of professional values, and the application of ethical frameworks in diverse practice settings. The course emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and the development of ethical practice skills through case studies and practical applications.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 503: Trauma-Info. Car.in Soc. Wk Pr
This course provides an in-depth understanding of trauma and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. Students will learn the principles and practices of trauma-informed care, including assessment, intervention, and prevention strategies. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills to create safe and supportive environments for clients who have experienced trauma.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 504: Adv. Soc Wrk Prac w/ Ind & Fam
This course provides an in-depth exploration of advanced social work practice with individuals and families. Students will develop advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and evaluation, with a focus on evidence-based practices and theoretical frameworks. The course emphasizes the integration of cultural competence, ethical considerations, and reflective practice in working with diverse populations.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 505: Adv.Psychopath. for Soc Wrk.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of psychopathology, focusing on the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental disorders. Students will examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to mental health conditions, and learn to apply this knowledge in social work practice. Emphasis will be placed on evidence-based interventions and culturally competent care.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 506: T in Social Work Practice
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the major theoretical perspectives that inform social work practice. Students will examine the historical development, key concepts, and practical applications of various theories. The course emphasizes the integration of these theories into practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities, and highlights the importance of cultural competence and ethical considerations.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 507: Und. & Add. Abu. In Soc. Wk Pr
This course provides an in-depth examination of various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. Students will explore the dynamics of abuse, its impact on individuals and families, and effective intervention strategies. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills for assessment, prevention, and treatment, as well as understanding the legal and ethical considerations in social work practice.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 508: Soc. Wk Pol. & Serv.: Ana & Im
This course examines the development, analysis, and implementation of social work policies and services. Students will explore the impact of social policies on individuals, families, and communities, and develop skills in policy analysis, advocacy, and implementation. The course emphasizes the role of social workers in shaping and influencing policy to promote social justice and equity.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 509: Writing for Social Work
This course emphasizes the process of critical thinking and analysis in the process of affective professional writing as required for generalist social work practice. Students will prepare writing samples, such as research papers, case documentation, professional communications, and grant proposals. Research and writing skills emphasized.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 510: Addr Pov, Ineq, and Jus in SW
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the complex issues of poverty, inequity, and social injustice. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, practical applications, and case studies, students will explore the systemic and structural factors that contribute to these issues and develop strategies for effective social work practice. The course emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and the role of social workers as advocates for social change.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 512: Prac. w/ Comm, Org & Soc. I
This course examines the theories, research and interventions that social workers utilize in community practice. Community practitioners define the scope of their practice in the context of social justice within organizations, neighborhoods and communities applying social values and the concepts of welfare economics. They seek to improve the lives of people through purposeful change in their communities.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 516: Mixed Methods Research
This course provides students with information on advanced techniques of practice and program assessment. Both qualitative and quantitative research designs are taught. Evaluation research design, instrument selection and development and techniques of data analysis are addressed.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 518: Foundation Practicum
Students are placed in field practicums in many organizational settings including the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Placement settings include the range of opportunities available to social work practitioners. This course provides opportunities for students to integrate knowledge, values, skills, and cognitive and affective processes learned in academic courses to the practicum situation at the foundation level of generalist social work practice. Field practicum provides opportunities to learn the person-in-environment framework; the application of scientific inquiry, ethical principles, and critical thinking in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels; and strategies to engage diversity in practice and advocates for human rights and social and economic justice.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 602: Mental Health & Society
Students will learn assessment, treatment planning, and principles of group therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, etc. This course emphasizes the professional use-of-self and integrates bio-psycho-social-spiritual and ecological-systemic models in considering human behavior.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 604: Assess in Ment. Hea.& Addictio
Students will learn to conduct sophisticated mental status and lethality risk interviews, engage in strengths and assets discovery, and apply the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association and other classification schemes in formulating assessment hypotheses. Recognizing the social, political, legal, and ethical implications of assessment, Students will learn to critically examine various conceptual frameworks and apply biopsychosocial and strengths perspectives to understand its multidimensional aspects.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 606: Advanced Social Policy & Analy
This course provides an awareness of problems and concepts of the policy process in the U.S., exploring the political, economic, and institutional frameworks which structure public social welfare choices. A discussion and analysis of select current issues in social policy, including poverty, housing, discrimination, disability, mental health, and incarceration, will be integrated throughout the course. Students will learn to define, analyze, and advocate for social welfare policies that directly impact communities they intend to serve.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 608: Prac. w/ Comm, Org and Soc. II
This course builds on the generalist practice with communities and organizations I extending the concepts of empowerment-based practice and the strengths perspective to macro client systems. Students will learn about community organizing, advocacy, and the relationship between organizations and communities and at-risk populations.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 6
SOW 610: Advanced Practicum I
The advanced practicum focuses on the application of theory, knowledge, and skills, and integrates the social work competencies developed in the advanced curriculum year with practice experience in community-based agencies to address complex needs and problems. Students have the opportunity to choose areas of specialization, and work in community based agencies that provide services in that area of specialization. This course includes specified hours per semester of seminar and experiential learning.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 611: Advanced Practicum II
This course builds on the advanced practicum I and the foundation practicum and prepares students to practice as social workers at the advanced level in public and private settings. The advanced practicum focuses on the application of theory, knowledge, and skills, and integrates the social work competencies developed in the advanced curriculum year with practice experience in community-based agencies to address complex needs and problems. Students have the opportunity to choose areas of specialization and work in community-based agencies that provide services in that area. This course includes specified hours per semester of seminar and experiential learning.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 614: Methods of Community Research
In this course, students will begin with an examination of philosophical issues and traditions relevant to qualitative research, with an emphasis on how critical social theory and critical social work can be applied to both understanding and using qualitative research methods to address problems in social work and social policy. Students will learn about various methods of qualitative research approaches including interviewing, focus groups, ethnographic observation, and methods of data analysis.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
SOW 616: Leadership & Management
Students will learn the difference between supervision and leadership, assess your own leadership style in a variety of ways, and learn several leadership techniques. You will also become familiar with various administrative roles, such as program assessment, team building, human resource management, board relationships, working with the media, budgeting and ethical practice.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3