We’re proud to be one of a few undergraduate social work programs to include a unique language track in either Spanish or American Sign Language to help students and graduates maximize impact in diverse populations. You’ll do more than earn a degree — you’ll explore the human experience, from behavior and relationships to ethics and race. As a social work major, you will:
- Study the intersectionality of religion, spirituality and social work
- Understand the unique variables of serving children, families and the elderly
- Learn to meet the needs of clients across different communities and demographics
- Discover the influence of psychology and sociology on an effective practice
- Master the methodology of generalist social work
Your education will never be limited to the classroom or the campus. Learning opportunities exist all around us, and Bowie State has a long history of engagement with the extended community for field instruction. You’ll work closely with experts from community associations, mental health agencies, homeless shelters, nursing homes and other social service organizations to advocate for the disadvantaged. All seniors (and some juniors) complete two semesters of internships, which add up to 200 hours of invaluable “classroom in a community” experience.
- Travel: Our global learning program has given students the chance to experience a growing list of destinations, including Germany, Japan, South Africa and Cuba.
- Collaborate: Our Sign Language Club, a partnership with Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., pairs their deaf and hearing-impaired students with Bowie State students learning sign language to enhance the education experience and build friendships across diverse communities.
- Serve: We host a chapter of Phi Alpha Honor Society and the Social Work Club, both focusing on the community service that is the core of the social work field.
- Succeed: Scholarships are available for students pursuing a degree in social work.
- Achieve: Because we are committed to making education accessible for everyone, we offer working students the option to complete online courses, hybrid online courses, traditional in-class instruction and for-credit field placements. The program’s flexible evening schedule attracts many adults seeking career advancement in human services fields.
Students who complete our fully accredited program build analytical and critical thinking skills that equip them to become thought leaders and do meaningful work for people who most need advocacy. You’ll be well-prepared to continue your education at the graduate level and pursue scholarly research in the field. Our alumni are regularly recruited by master of social work programs.
Social workers help clients makes the most of their lives in their current circumstances and environments. They’re everywhere people are in need: schools, nursing homes, military bases, courts, police departments, hospices, mental health facilities, community organizations. A degree in the field opens up options in many meaningful careers, including the list of examples below:
- Behavioral specialist
- Case manager
- Clergy
- Community organizer
- Community services manager
- Clinical therapist or counselor
- Crisis counselor
- Domestic violence coordinator
- Educator
- Elected official
- Guidance counselor
- Health educator
- Human rights advocate
- Interventionist
- Juvenile detention worker
- Lobbyist
- Program director
- Researcher
- Social services worker
- Volunteer coordinator
