Appalachian State University Social Work Program Overview

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As the field of social work continues to grow and evolve, it's essential to consider the programs that prepare students for this rewarding and challenging profession. Appalachian State University's Social Work Program is a well-regarded institution that offers students a comprehensive education in social work. In this article, we'll delve into the program's overview, highlighting its mission, curriculum, and more.

Mission and Values

Appalachian State University's Social Work Program is committed to preparing students for careers in social work that promote social justice, human well-being, and empowerment. The program's mission is rooted in the values of the social work profession, including service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence.

Program Overview

The Social Work Program at Appalachian State University offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree that prepares students for generalist social work practice. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and includes a comprehensive curriculum that covers the foundations of social work, human behavior and the social environment, social policy, research, and practice.

Curriculum

The BSW program at Appalachian State University includes a 120-credit hour curriculum that is divided into four components:

1. General Education: 44-45 credit hours that include courses in English, mathematics, science, and humanities.
2. Social Work Core: 45 credit hours that include courses in social work foundations, human behavior and the social environment, social policy, research, and practice.
3. Electives: 15-16 credit hours that allow students to specialize in areas such as child welfare, mental health, or gerontology.
4. Field Education: 12-15 credit hours that provide students with hands-on experience in social work practice.

Field Education

Field education is an essential component of the Social Work Program at Appalachian State University. Students participate in field placements that provide hands-on experience in social work practice, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. Field placements are available in a variety of settings, including child welfare agencies, mental health clinics, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.

Admissions and Requirements

To be eligible for the Social Work Program at Appalachian State University, students must meet the following requirements:

1. GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for admission to the program.
2. Prerequisite Courses: Students must complete prerequisite courses in sociology, psychology, and biology.
3. Application: Students must submit an application to the program, including a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
4. Interview: Students may be required to participate in an interview with the program's admissions committee.

Faculty and Research

The Social Work Program at Appalachian State University is led by a faculty of experienced social work professionals who are committed to teaching, research, and service. Faculty members have expertise in areas such as child welfare, mental health, gerontology, and social policy. The program is also actively engaged in research, with faculty members publishing scholarly articles and presenting at national conferences.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Social Work Program at Appalachian State University are prepared for careers in social work that promote social justice, human well-being, and empowerment. Career opportunities include:

1. Child Welfare: Graduates can work in child welfare agencies, advocating for the rights and well-being of children and families.
2. Mental Health: Graduates can work in mental health clinics, providing counseling and therapy services to individuals and groups.
3. Gerontology: Graduates can work in gerontology, providing services to older adults and their families.
4. Non-Profit Organizations: Graduates can work in non-profit organizations, advocating for social justice and human rights.

Gallery of Appalachian State University Social Work Program

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Social Work Program at Appalachian State University. If you're considering a career in social work, we encourage you to explore this program further and reach out to the university's admissions office for more information.