Known as the "Bluegrass State" due to the bluegrass found in many of its pastures, there are several social work degrees in Kentucky for those aspiring to become advocates for social justice with disadvantaged populations.
Despite the fact that Kentucky is best known for its coalfields, horse racing competitions, bourbon production, tobacco, and automobile manufacturing, Kentucky is also home to many of the top universities in the South. The following is the undergraduate and graduate social work programs that have been given the stamp of approval by the CSWE in Kentucky.
Featured Social Work Programs
Asbury University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Designed to prepare students for generalist social work practice with a commitment to spirituality vitality, learning, leadership, and service to the church and society, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is focused on the application of knowledge, values, skills, and dispositions within a problem-solving framework to diverse client systems of all sizes. Rooted in the liberal arts, the program develops social work practitioners who are knowledgeable on the theoretical and practical context of social welfare rooted in the Judeo-Christian heritage. Requiring at least 54 major social work credits and 48 general education credits, the curriculum covers social service systems, human behavior, social work issues, research methods, welfare policies, and field practicum experiences.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Founded on the belief that all people are called to a restored relationship on whole-hearted love for God and demonstrated socially in loving our neighbors, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program trains graduate students on the knowledge, values, and skills to function as generalist social workers and as advanced practitioners with children, adolescents, adults, and/or family systems. Committed to historic orthodox Christianity with an emphasis on personal and social holiness, the program offers one concentration in Child and Family Services as well as a School Social Work Certification Track. In addition to the 60-credit MSW program, students have the option to also pursue a dual degree in Biblical Studies, Theology, Christian Education, Christian Leadership, Counseling, Pastoral Counseling, Youth Ministry, and Intercultural Studies.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
One Macklem Drive
Wilmore, KY 40390
(859) 858-3511
[email protected]
http://www.asbury.edu/academics/departments/behavioral-sciences
Brescia University
Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Offered to students who have completed at least 45 credit hours to qualify for the bachelor's upper-level admission, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is designed to provide a high-quality and efficient course sequence on social work theory and practice for becoming an entry-level social work generalist. Ideal for individuals who are seeking employment in the fields of human services, child protective services, anti-poverty programs, corrections, and criminal justice systems, the online social work degree program is designed with the adult student in mind, with flexible courses that enable qualified students to complete the degree in just two years.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
717 Frederica Street
Owensboro, KY 42301
(270) 685-3131
[email protected]
http://online.brescia.edu/online-degrees/bachelor-of-social-work-bsw/
Campbellsville University
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW)
With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and personal growth within a nurturing Christian environment, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program is structured to advancing students toward continued learning in the professional application of generalist social work practice in the context of Christian service. As a facilitator of progressive change, the program strives to teach service within diverse communities, organizations, family systems, groups, and individuals. After students are admitted into the upper-level program beginning their junior year, the curriculum requires the completion of at least 51 major course credits with two practicum experiences. In addition, there is a Public Child Welfare Certification Program that can be pursued concurrently for those who wish to concentrate their studies for gaining employment in child welfare services.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Known for being the least costly per credit hour of any graduate social work program offered by a Kentucky institution, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program is intended for students employed in social work positions who need an advanced degree for licensure or promotion to social service supervisory roles. Offered within eight-week terms, the affordable social work degree program follows an evening and online format to accommodate the non-traditional working student with family and professional obligations. In the spirit of Christian service, the mission of the MSW is to expand career opportunities and prepare advanced generalist social service administrators within a Christ-centered environment for practice in regional, national, or international settings.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
1 University Drive
Campbellsville, KY 42718
(270) 789-5000
[email protected]
http://www.campbellsville.edu/carver-school
Eastern Kentucky University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Bringing many years of social work practice, scholarship, board work, and expertise in a wide range of social work fields to the classroom, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is offered at the main and regional campus in Corbin to prepare undergraduate students for entry-level generalist social work practice with individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations, and communities. As a 120-credit program, the major social work curriculum covers social work practice, social welfare policies, human behavior, life development, research methods, sociological analysis, psychology, and two practicum experiences in an approved social agency under the supervision of a licensed social worker. Students can also pursue a minor in Social Welfare and enroll in the Public Child Welfare Certification program.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
Keith Building Room 223
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475
(859) 622-1645
[email protected]
http://socialwork.eku.edu/social-work-program-0
Kentucky Christian University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Designed to prepare students for careers as Christian human service professionals with sensitivity to the hurting of diverse disadvantaged populations, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program provides the opportunity to practice the knowledge and skills needed to become an entry-level generalist social work practitioner. Since the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), graduates will be considered for advanced standing status when entering a Master's level program. Graduates will also be well-prepared for social work from a strong knowledge base in social work values, human relationships, diversity, scientific inquiry, social justice, populations at risk, human behavior, social welfare policy, and field practicum with diverse client systems.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
100 Academic Parkway
Grayson, KY 41143
(800) 522-3181
[email protected]
http://www.kcu.edu/social-work-human-services/social-work-program-information
Kentucky State University
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW)
Fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program aims to prepare undergraduate students for generalist entry-level professional social work practice in the public sector, as well as continued professional growth with graduate social work education in advanced standing status. For completion of the bachelor's degree, students must complete a minimum of 120 semester credit hours, which includes 52 semester credit hours of major social work courses. The intensive curriculum utilizes classroom and field instruction to develop the processes, dispositions, values, knowledge, and practical skills essential for alleviating problems that impair social functioning.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
http://www.kysu.edu/academics/collegesAndSchools/collegeofprofessionalstudies/PASWCJ/socialWork/
Morehead State University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Ideal for undergraduate students aspiring to generalist social work practice in entry-level positions at regional social service agencies, healthcare organizations, hospices, rehabilitation centers, domestic violence shelters, substance abuse treatment facilities, or other community-based clinics, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program aims to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to help those in need of critical resources to make a difference in the everyday lives of individuals. After completing the first two years of general education course requirements, junior-level students accepted into the program must complete at least 58 credit hours of social work coursework, field practicum, and a senior capstone project for completion of the bachelor's degree.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
Rader Hall Room 335
150 University Blvd.
Morehead, KY 40351
(606) 783-2656
[email protected]
http://www.moreheadstate.edu/socialwork/
Murray State University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Focused on the code of ethics, practice standards, and competencies to prepare students for professional entry-level generalist practice in the social work field, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is intended for undergraduate students who display an informed passion to improve the quality of life for others, especially for vulnerable and disadvantaged populations. Within the 120-credit program, social work majors participate in coursework that discusses pressing topics in social welfare, human diversity, human behavior, generalist social work research, family violence, school social work, crisis intervention, case management, child abuse or neglect, and substance abuse prevention. Additionally, students are required to complete a block internship of 500 clock hours at a regional social service agency in the last semester.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
102 Curris Center
Murray, KY 42071
(270) 809-6803
[email protected]
If you love the idea of ensuring children have safe home environments, homeless individuals receive job counseling services, or elderly adults are given the medical care they need, then a career in social work may be the perfect option for you. Whether you are born and raised or considering moving to the "Bluegrass State," check out these social work degrees in Kentucky that have been approved for getting graduates on the right track to helping individuals or groups overcome difficult challenges.
For the remainder of our list, see Social Work Degree Programs in Kentucky (N-Z).
Northern Kentucky University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Designed to educate competent and ethical graduates who demonstrate leadership in social work practice to work towards advancing social and economic justice, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program provides undergraduate students with generalist social work knowledge to understand the mechanisms of oppression and discrimination for applying strategies of advocacy. Through the 120-credit program, students are engaged in coursework on social welfare policy, human behavior, social work practice, and social work research. In order to also build critical thinking, communication, assessment, intervention, and other professional skills, the program also involves two five-credit courses in field education in which students must complete a total of 400 clock hours under the supervision of a licensed social worker.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
With the mission of promoting human and community well-being by preparing competent advanced social work practitioners who are leaders in the profession, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides graduate students with advanced knowledge and skills sufficient for autonomous professional practice advocating for social and economic justice. The program places an emphasis on critical thinking, client strengths, commitment to social work values, self-awareness, professional development, evidence-based decision-making, and multicultural competency for practice with children and families. While the full program contains 60 semester hours and takes three years to complete, those with a BSW can apply for advanced standing to complete the degree with 30 semester hours in just three semesters.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
MEP Center Room 203B
Highland Heights, KY 41099
(859) 572-5604
[email protected]
http://coehs.nku.edu/departments/counseling/programs.html
Spalding University
Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW)
Intended to inspire and prepare entry-level generalist social work practitioners to meet the diverse needs of today's changing society by promoting peace and social justice, the Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program is the oldest accredited undergraduate social work program in the region with a long tradition of social activism and community engagement tracing back to the 1960s. Comprised of a total of 120 credit hours, the program follows a unique six-week intensive session model to provide the opportunity for students to focus on fewer subjects at a time while maintaining progress toward their degree. Outside of the classroom, undergraduate students are also required to complete at least 450 clock hours of supervised field practice in a social service agency.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Following an integrative curriculum model that emphasizes critical thinking skills and a global perspective, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares graduate students for advanced generalist social work practice to sustain a versatile and meaningful career as a leader of the profession. With interactive class formats combining in-person, online, and out in the community practical learning, the program requires the completion of 58 credits for individuals with bachelor's degrees in other fields and 34 credits for those with a BSW degree from an accredited institution. Graduates are also required to complete two supervised field experiences for a total of 900 clock hours in family service centers, public or non-profit agencies, mental health facilities, community clinics, or hospitals.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
845 South Third Street
Louisville, KY 40203
(502) 588-7183
[email protected]
http://spalding.edu/academics/social-work/
Union College
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
With the goal of preparing undergraduate students for ethical generalist social work practice with diverse populations and developing a commitment to advocating for social justice and human rights, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is based on a strong liberal arts tradition with the evidence-based social work knowledge and skills for working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, or communities. Focused on the pursuit of justice for the diverse and multicultural populations of the rural Appalachians, the program addresses the broad social issues of child abuse, substance abuse, domestic violence, prejudice, discrimination, poverty, juvenile delinquency, mental health care, and criminal justice. As an upper-level program, students must complete at least 49 credits of major social work courses for completion.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
Sharp Academic Center Room 3100
310 College Street
Barbourville, KY 40906
(606) 546-1799
[email protected]
http://www.unionky.edu/academics/departments/social-and-behavioral-sciences/social-work
University of Kentucky
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW)
Following an outcome-focused education model to assist students with achieving competencies in the practice behaviors required for a successful career and additional graduate studies, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program prepares undergraduate students for beginning generalist social work practice with an emphasis on inquiry-based ethical practice, cultural diversity, community engagement, and critical thinking. Grounded in a strong liberal arts foundation, the program consists of general education requirements, major social work courses, social or behavioral science electives, and two intensive field practicum experiences for a grand total of 120 credit hours. For those with an interest in joining Kentucky's public child welfare services sector, students can also participate in the Public Child Welfare Certification Program.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
With an innovative and exciting curriculum based on ethical imperatives, sound intervention techniques, and empirical-based research to practice, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program aims to equip advanced social work practitioners with the practical skills needed for the tasks and responsibilities they will encounter in professional practice settings. For completion of the degree, graduate students are required to complete at least 21 hours of foundation courses, six hours of bridge courses, and 27 hours of concentration courses for a total of 54 credit hours. In addition to the two concentrations offered in Clinical Social Work and Community Social Development, students also have the option of completing a certificate in School Social Work, Gerontology, or Developmental Disabilities.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
619 Patterson Office Tower
Lexington, KY 40506
(859) 257-6650
[email protected]
http://www.uky.edu/SocialWork/AcademicPrograms
University of Louisville
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Designed to prepare full-time undergraduate students as generalist social work practitioners who also may serve special populations of people in the areas of child welfare, gerontology, criminal justice, case management, mental healthcare, substance abuse, and community organizing, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is focused on hands-on practical learning opportunities through quality field education and service learning. With the goal of promoting social justice through practices with diverse client systems in sponsoring social service agencies, the 121-credit program covers major social work courses in human behavior, generalist practice, social welfare policy, service delivery, social environment, social work research, and advocacy.
Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)
Offered in online or in-person formats at the main Louisville campus or the satellite Brescia location, the Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program is designed to help graduate students achieve their maximum leadership potential as advanced social work practitioners through a carefully structured curriculum and 16 hours of field practicum each week. While the full program can be completed in 60 hours, qualified applicants with a recent BSW degree from an accredited institution can be placed in advanced standing status to complete just 30 hours. Depending on career goals, students can specialize their studies in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), Military Social Work, School Social Work (SSW), Alcohol and Drug Counseling (ADCS), Gerontology (GER), Mental Health Counseling (MH), or Psychosocial Oncology.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
Oppenheimer Hall Room 2
2301 South Third Street
Louisville, KY 40292
(502) 852-8039
[email protected]
University of Pikeville
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
As one of the newest academic programs at the university, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is dedicated to maintaining a rigorous curriculum that will produce entry-level generalist social work professionals who can think critically, conceptualize, and apply theoretical foundations to practical solutions for promoting social justice. The program aims to engage students in a learning process that provides the knowledge, values, skills, and dispositions needed to address the various needs of eastern Kentucky, rural Appalachia, and beyond. Along with the completion of at least 120 semester hours of undergraduate general education and social work major coursework, students are required to complete at least 480 clock hours of supervised field experience training in an approved social service placement.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
147 Sycamore Street
Pikeville, KY 41501
(606) 218-5250
[email protected]
http://www.upike.edu/Academic-Programs/social_science/social_work
Western Kentucky University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Ideal for undergraduate students who are interested in making a difference in the lives of individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations, and even entire communities, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is designed to prepare entry-level generalist social work practitioners who are committed to addressing the social issues and challenges that affect our changing society. This program consists of at least 120 credit hours, including 54 hours within the social work major, 45 hours of general education, and 21 hours of general electives. Areas of study in the curriculum include human behavior, social welfare, populations at risk, human diversity, research, ethics, social and economic justice, and supervised field practicum.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
With the mission of preparing graduate students for advanced professional social work practice to meet the needs of increasingly diverse rural populations in south central and western Kentucky, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program is dedicated to addressing the workforce needs of social service agencies working with Kentucky's individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities to promote social justice. While students can complete the 60-credit traditional program in two years full-time or three years part-time, those with a BSW degree who earn advanced standing status need to complete just 33 credits. At the conclusion of the program, graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in child welfare services, substance abuse treatment, correctional systems, mental health care, schools, military bases, nursing homes, employee assistance programs, and other community agencies.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Contact Information
Academic Complex Room 210
1906 College Heights Blvd.
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 745-5312
[email protected]
https://www.wku.edu/socialwork/
As the only helping profession that places an emphasis on both social justice and human well-being, social workers are committed to empowering others to bring about social change on an individual, familial, group, community, and agency level. If you possess strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills with a drive to work with the diverse populations in the "Bluegrass State" to overcome their unique challenges, be sure to further investigate these top-notch accredited social work degrees in Kentucky to find the right program that matches your career goals.