Known as the "Show Me State," Missouri is a fascinating Midwestern state that's considered the "Gateway to the West" and social work degrees in Missouri are very respected.
Missouri is full of friendly people and has some surprising features for an unassuming American state. For example, there are more fountains in Kansas City than any other city in the world except for Rome. The state was named after an Indian tribe of the same name whose name meant, "town of the large canoes." The state also places much importance on education with Saint Louis University receiving the honor of oldest university west of the Mississippi. The state features several programs for students interested in social work and is a terrific state in which to attend college. Below you will find our list of accredited social work degree programs in the state of Missouri.
Featured Social Work Programs
Avila University
Bachelor of Social Work
Avila suggests that social work is one of the hottest degree programs on college campuses today and says that the Department of Labor Statistics expects healthy growth in the number of positions available in the coming years. Students of social work at Avila have the opportunity to become a licensed social worker at the conclusion of study or may choose to enroll in a program of graduate study. Most students can complete a master's degree in social work with just one year of further study after getting a Bachelor of Social Work from Avila. The program in social work has been accredited by the CSWE every year since 1974 and features an important program where students complete 500 hours in a social work environment under the tutelage and supervision of an experienced social worker. The school also offers students the opportunity to get a scholarship of $10,000 if they graduate from a Catholic high school and decide to enroll in Avila.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Avila University
11901 Wornall Road
Kansas City, MO 64145
Phone: 816.501.3643
[email protected]
Program Website
Evangel University
Bachelor of Social Work
Evangel University boasts that its program is "much more" than a fully accredited degree and provides an immersive schedule of practical experience with social work. Students take part in a variety of classroom settings like seminars and practicums as well as attend leadership trips and take part in community outreach projects. The program's faculty work hard to get to know students and make sure that each degree candidate receives the best experience possible in college. The main purpose of the program in social work is to ensure students graduate with the knowledge required to work in a professional environment as well as gain the skills needed to perform well in a master's program. Through strong mentorship, the college expects its students to become involved in a variety of projects and events during each year of the degree process to become well-rounded and responsible members of the community upon graduation.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Evangel University
1111 N. Glenstone
Springfield, MO
Phone: 417.865.2815
[email protected]
Program Website
Fontbonne University
Bachelor of Social Work
Fontbonne's faculty says that the social work degree at the university is meant to prepare students to practice social work in their local communities. Students are encouraged to come to the program and develop skills that will allow them to exist as a positive source for change. Students are offered study in traditional classroom format as well as several hours required in a real world environment during fieldwork. The university suggests that students have many avenues to explore after graduation including work in case management, as a counselor, or as an advocate for disenfranchised individuals. At the completion of the degree program, students may take the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker test to become a licensed social worker or continue on with education in a master's degree program. The college works to ensure that students have a strong connection to the community during school and appreciate the impact that their education will have on the world at large.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
6800 Wydown Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63105
Phone: 314.889.1400
[email protected]
Program Website
Lincoln University
B.S. in Social Work
The program in social work at Lincoln University requires at least 42 credits of core classes along with several courses within the social work curriculum. The university strives to provide a helpful and dedicated faculty for students who help degree candidates develop the necessary skills and gain the important information required for work outside the university. Most of the faculty in the department have advanced or terminal degrees in their fields, so students have access to an incredibly valuable set of instructors. Additionally, the program features important classes on various scientific methods and scholarly research. The program helps students to learn how to solve social programs within the confines of ethical considerations and ensures students are able to communicate smartly and efficiently in the real world. Social work is very much about human interaction, which is a natural part of being human, but the program at Lincoln takes this idea and applies it to the world of education.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE) (candidate for accreditation)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
110 Martin Luther King Hall
812. E. Dunklin Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: 573.681.5231
[email protected]
Program Website
Lindenwood University
Bachelor of Social Work
An education in social work at Lindenwood is designed to help students become effective leaders in social work practice outside the school after graduation. Students may find a successful future as part of any number of community organizations and companies that help individuals and families. Before graduation from the program, students must demonstrate mastery and competence on a number of standard subjects. Important areas where students must excel include understanding various situations from the client's point of view, the ability to devise solutions for common client problems, and the ability to help clients figure out what type of problem they have. In addition, students learn how to offer effective solutions for common problems and help clients find valuable resources in the community to help with issues. As a fully accredited program, Lindenwood's bachelor degree program offers a demanding curriculum in the form of small classes and a valuable mentoring system, as well as practical experience between classes.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Lindenwood University
209 S. Kingshighway
St. Charles, MO 63301
Phone: 636.949.4783
[email protected]
Program Website
Missouri State University
Bachelor of Social Work
As a profession very much in demand in today's environment, a social work bachelor's degree from MSU offers students the skills they need to work successfully in a variety of careers. Students who are interested in improving the health and welfare of families will learn how to become an effective leader within companies and the organizations that deal in social work. Students will also learn to become influential leaders and members of their communities who are able to rely upon knowledge and ethics to be a valuable part of their neighborhood. Most of the faculty serving students at Missouri State University are licensed and have experience working in the real world. Faculty works to provide students with a strong classroom experience alongside valuable fieldwork experiences. The work done in the field during the degree program also offers students the opportunity to network with future employers, associates, and peers.
Master of Social Work
The program at Missouri State University provides a focus for students on family health and works to prepare students for work in all facets of society. Students are well prepared to work with local social work organizations as well as companies and societies in any area that requires the help and knowledge of a social worker. The program features a small student-to-faculty ratio, which helps students receive focused support during classroom study. The roles students may enter after graduation include those in administrative positions, social work practice, and management of social work programs in the community. Students may take classes at the Springfield or Joplin campus, and each location features an identical program so students can choose the location that's most convenient. Additionally, students may participate in a variety of online classes, which helps make the program convenient for anyone who is already in the workforce and must maintain employment during college study.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
School of Social Work
901 S. National Ave.
Springfield, MO 65897
Phone: 417.836.6953
[email protected]
Program Website
Missouri Western State University
Bachelor of Social Work
The Western Missouri program in social work prepares students for entry-level work as social workers. The program's accreditation with CSWE ensures high academic standards, and the college suggests that students can work in several different areas helping people in their communities. Social workers commonly work for companies like drug treatment centers, hospices, mental health facilities, and victim services organizations. Students may also choose to open their own private practice upon graduation as a licensed social worker. The program at Missouri Western helps students to hone several skills valuable to social work like advocacy, political action, counseling, activism, and case management. Students must establish competency in a variety of benchmarks before graduation such as the ability to apply ethical principles, showcase critical thinking skills, and the understanding of human behavior. These benchmarks are designed to ensure the program abides by the educational standards set forth by the Council on Social Work Education.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
4525 Downs Drive
Wilson Hall Room 204
Saint Joseph, MO 64507
Phone: 816.271.4293
[email protected]
Program Website
Park University
Bachelor of Social Work
The bachelor's degree program at Park University prepares students to enter the profession at the starting level in many different social service settings and organizations. Students are offered a general education that will help provide expertise in many different settings with any number of different types of clients. Students must complete 122 credit hours and will learn about concepts like eco-systems theory and strengths perspective. These concepts provide the framework necessary to create a comprehensive and valuable curriculum. The program at Park University was re-accredited by CSWE in 2010 and was one of the first such programs reconfirmed under the new rules required for programs offering bachelor's degrees in social work. These updated guidelines ensure that students are able to build the skills needed for interpersonal relationships in the workplace, as well as the ability to assess individuals, patients, or clients so as to ensure efficient and effective treatment.
Master of Social Work
As with all accredited graduate programs, Park University ensures that each graduate is able to demonstrate the ten core competencies required of graduates including ethical practice, appreciation of diversity, and the ability to apply critical thinking skills. Students who have completed a Bachelor of Social Work will benefit from further instruction and the career advancement an advanced degree will offer. Although graduates with a bachelor's degree are fully equipped to enter the workforce, additional study and education is a great benefit in today's social work environment. The faculty of Park University works diligently to ensure that students learn the skills necessary to make a positive impact on society and to shape a better world. Students are taught the value of research and how that knowledge may be used in efforts for helping society and collaborating with others to find solutions to problems now and in the future.
Accreditations
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social Work Accreditation (CSWE)
- The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
8700 NW River Park Drive
Parkville, MO 64152
Phone: 816.584.6518
[email protected]
Program Website
Saint Louis University
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
Students with a passion for social justice will excel in the Bachelor of Social Work program at Saint Louis University. Students may choose from the Accelerated Program designed for high-achieving students who want to earn their Bachelor of Science and Master of Social Work in just five years, or Honors Courses, which gives students stimulating academic experiences and challenges. Students may also choose a minor on social work as well. Graduates from the program are qualified to work in a variety of settings including clinical locations, child welfare or family services, mental health, schools and other areas where social work skills are required. All students must complete a fieldwork practicum, spending two to three days per week in a social service agency during their senior year. Students may also choose to study abroad or may enroll in the two-week experiential course in Ghana, Mexico or India.
Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work program at Saint Louis University prepares students for advanced careers in the social work field. Those who complete the program are recognized as agents of change, promoting well-being for communities and individuals. Once students have completed the professional foundation course work, they must select an area of concentration. Options include:
- Community and Organization
- Clinical
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Students may also choose from a variety of specializations which may be earned in 57 credit hours, which include:
- Clinical practice with families
- Community mental health practice with adults
- Nonprofit administration
- Gerontology
- School social work
- Trauma informed care
- Veteran services
Students must submit a resume, professional statement, three confidential reference letters and transcripts. Two reference letters should be academic and one professional. Students must also complete an interview. In order to apply for the program, students must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum 3.0 and 24 credit hours in liberal arts.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
Saint Louis University School of Social Work
College for Public Health and Social Justice
Tegeler Hall
3550 Lindell Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63103
Telephone: 314-977-2722
Email: [email protected]
Southeast Missouri State University
Social Work Degrees
The College of Health and Human Services offers a Bachelor of Social Work as well as a minor in Social Welfare and Social Work Practice. Students must complete 51 hours in the University Studies Program, 54 hours of Professional Foundation Courses, six hours of Major Electives and 15 hours of Basic Knowledge and Comprehension Courses. Students must achieve a "C" or better in all social work courses and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.25. Students must also complete integrated seminar and field education with a minimum grade of "C."
Accreditation
- North Central Association
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
Southeast Missouri State University
Department of Social Work
One Univerity Plaza, MS 8400
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Telephone: 573-651-2004
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
Southwest Baptist University
Bachelor of Social Work
The Social Work program at SBU provides students with the knowledge, values and skills to intervene on an individual, family or community based level in diverse settings to help improve the social well-being of those involved. Students earn a Bachelor of Social Work that prepares them for careers in any number of professional career settings, and provides them with the knowledge to continue with their education and earn a Master of Social Work. Students who successfully complete the program are eligible to apply for licensure. Students may declare a pre-social work major upon acceptance to Southwest Baptist University, and may make formal application by the spring of their sophomore year. Students also must complete field education in a wide variety of practicum settings.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission North Central Association
Contact
Christine M. Saladino, LMSW
BSW Program Director
1600 University Avenue
Bolivar, MO 65613
Telephone: 417-328-1740
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
University of Central Missouri
Bachelor's Degree in Social Work
The bachelor's degree in social work at UCM equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to gain entry-level positions in social work practice, as well as preparing them for training at the graduate level. Students apply for admission to the social work program during their junior in the program as most of the required coursework is taken during the junior and senior years. The coursework teaches students how to resolve emotional, social, economic and political problems faced by individuals or communities. Students find employment in state and community agencies, as well as institutions in the public and private sector.
Accreditation
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
Department of Communication Disorders and Social Work
University of Central Missouri
PO Box 800
Warrensburg, MO 64093
Telephone: 660-543-4407
Program Website
University of Missouri
School of Social Work
The School of Social Work at Mizzou has been providing social work education for more than 90 years, developing leaders in the areas of social and economic justice. The school was an early pioneer of social work education, being founded in 1906, and is a founding member of the accrediting body for social work education.
Bachelor of Social Work Program
The Bachelor of Social Work program at Mizzou prepares students for immediate employment in entry-level positions in the human service profession. Students are also prepared for graduate-level studies as well. The program provides an educational experience that provides graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a wide range of social work careers. The program requires 120 credit hours of instruction that includes Liberal Arts foundation, Professional BSW Core Courses and Electives.
Master of Social Work Program
The Master of Social Work Program at Mizzou prepares students for leadership roles in social work practice in areas such as Clinical Practice or Policy, Planning and Administration. The program is rigorous and progressive, opening up opportunities for advanced level positions. The program emphasizes a commitment to improving human well-being through the elimination of social problems, embracing diversity, while also promoting social and economic justice.
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work Program (PhD)
The doctorate program at Mizzou demonstrates to students the number of socioeconomic and demographic challenges facing the citizens of the state. Mizzou is the only university in Missouri that offers a doctorate level degree in social work. Students are trained as educators and researchers on subjects such as policy making, program development and evaluation, as well as thorough research in clinical practice challenges.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
BSW Program
Kathleen Claxton-Rogers
University of Missouri School of Social Work
725 Clark Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Telephone: 573-884-8795
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
MSW Program
Crystal Null
University of Missouri School of Social Work
724 Clark Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Telephone: 573-884-9385
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
PhD Program
Shannon Mezzanotte
University of Missouri School of Social Work
729 Clark Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Telephone: 573-884-1438
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Master of Social Work
UMKC offers a Master of Social Work program in both traditional and part-time schedules in order to meet the needs of those who must complete their degree while working full-time. Graduates of the program are qualified for advanced positions in the field of social work. Students must have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution, and provide official transcripts from any college or university they have attended.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
Scofield Hall, Room 09 (basement)
711 E 51st Street
Kansas City, MO 64110
Telephone: (816) 235-1148
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
University of Missouri, St. Louis
Bachelor of Social Work Program
UMSL offers a Bachelor of Social Work program designed to help students develop the knowledge and skills to understand complex social issues and the methods for intervening at an individual and community level. Students are taught using traditional and non-traditional methods to prepare them for entry-level professions in the field of social work.
Master of Social Work
Graduates of the Master of Social Work Program will have the knowledge and skills necessary to work in direct practice with individuals, families or communities. Studies focus on managing and leading human service agencies, social justice principles with a foundation in common practices in the social work industry. The program requires 60 hours of graduate coursework on a full or part-time basis.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
University of Missouri-St. Louis
1 University Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63121-4400
Telephone: 314-516-5000
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
Washington University in St. Louis
Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work at The Brown School offers one of the most flexible curriculums of any graduate social work program. It is designed for students to gain a solid foundation in the fundamentals of social work with the freedom to create their own course of study. Students customize their own concentration, when and where to do field work, providing them with a personalized education
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
Brown School
Washington University
Campus Box 1196
One Brookings Drive
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
Telephone: 314-935-6600
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
William Woods University
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
The Bachelor of Social Work at Woods prepares students for beginning level positions in social work as well as preparing them for graduate work for those who wish to continue their education. The faculty understands that the field of social work requires dual knowledge, both in providing services and advocating for social justice. There is a strong Code of Ethics, and this code is the foundation of the program offered at Woods.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Association, a Commission of the North Central Association
- Council on Social Work Education
Contact
William Woods University
One University Avenue
Fulton, MO 65251
Telephone: 800-995-3159
Email: [email protected]
Program Website
Filed under: Social Work Degree Programs in Missouri