David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics
Curriculum
The B.S.S.W. prepares undergraduates for generalist-level practice across the scope of the professional social work field. Many students continue to pursue a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree and obtain professional licensure credentials.
Core coursework emphasizes generalist-level practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Students engage in learning centered around human behavior; advocacy; social, economic, and environmental justice; diversity; and policy studies. Additionally, students take coursework across the social science core to gain a holistic understanding of the human condition.
The culmination of the program requires a 500-hour practicum in a human services agency that gives students supervision, work experience, leadership, and training in a theory-to-practice model.
Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in social work are eligible to apply for the M.S.W. Advanced Standing program at Syracuse University or other similar programs to help expedite the completion time for the masters-level degree. Enrollment in the traditional advanced standing program allows for completion of the graduate degree in as little as one year.
The B.S.S.W. is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Social work is a civic-minded profession guided by foundational principles of justice, dignity, and the intrinsic value of every individual. The accreditation standards set by CSWE are firmly rooted in these principles, collaborating with skilled educators and community allies to cultivate excellence in social work research, policy, theory, and practice.
Social work education aims to foster thriving communities and uphold the public good. CSWE accreditation is pivotal in guaranteeing high-quality education that equips social workers to fulfill this mission-critical responsibility.
All 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia require that a social worker sitting for a licensing exam be a graduate of a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program. The B.S.S.W. program is fully accredited by the CSWE. Please view our Professional Licensure Disclosure Statement regarding the program’s ability to meet specific state licensure or certification requirements.
The mission of the Syracuse University School of Social Work is to prepare competent, compassionate, and socially responsible professionals who address human need and promote social, economic, and environmental justice in a diverse and rapidly changing world through the strengthening of services, interventions, and policies. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary approach fosters learning across disciplines, recognizing the interconnectedness of social issues.
The School of Social Work promotes ethical practice and professionalism as we adhere to professional codes of conduct revolving around respect, integrity, and accountability. These practices enhance our commitment to advance justice and equity for all.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Explore Social Work Around the World
Syracuse University Abroad consistently ranks among the highest-quality international study programs in the country. Syracuse offers short- and long-term options in more than 60 countries, including internships, community engagement projects, and language study at all levels.
For social work students, the opportunity to study abroad broadens the global perspective of social justice and humanitarianism.
Time abroad is usually used for humanities courses (e.g., English, history, fine arts, or other site-specific opportunities) or electives. With careful planning, students can satisfy other degree requirements while developing sensitivity to cultural differences through these programs.
Discover the Roots of Social Work in New York City
Spend three days in the New York City area for the Barbara Richman Mirken New York City Social Work Immersion Trip, sponsored by the Barbara Richman Mirken Seminar Endowed Fund. The trip offers B.S.S.W. students the opportunity to experience both historical and contemporary sites that bring to life the role of social work in the urban environment of Manhattan.
Get Involved on Campus and Beyond
Social Workers United (SWU), a student organization, aims to connect graduate and undergraduate students with faculty and staff to better serve the school, students, and community. SWU is involved in numerous programs throughout the year focused on social justice, advocacy, and civic engagement. The organization provides an information network that will connect students with various opportunities within the university, the School of Social Work, and the broader community.
Build a Career of Compassion
The School of Social Work embraces the profession’s commitment to social justice and public service. We view social and personal problems as resulting from complex interactions between people and the structures of society itself, and we work to address those problems at the level of public policy, community organizations, families, groups, and individuals.
B.S.S.W. graduates are prepared to start their careers in social work entry-level positions; however, some graduates choose to continue their higher education in law, health care, social sciences, and other related fields. Most commonly, graduates continue on to a master of social work (M.S.W.) degree and professional licensure.
Learn more about this program