Fresno Pacific University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines lower‑division prerequisites with 48 units of required social work courses. Students take a foundational helping course (SW 220) and advanced courses covering human behavior, practice, policy, research and field education. Core units include:

• PSY 410 Abnormal Psychology
• SW 300 Human Behavior in the Social Environment
• SW 320 Marriage and Family
• SW 330 Cultural Competence in Professional Practice
• SW 400 Foundations of Social Work Practice
• SW 410 Working with Groups
• SW 420 Becoming a Change Agent
• SW 452 Social Welfare and Public Policy
• SW 464 Field Instruction I (4 credits) and SW 466 Field Instruction II (4 credits)
• SW 468 Seminar I and SW 470 Seminar II
• SW 484 Social Science Research I and SW 498 Social Science Research II

Lower‑division major prerequisites (12 units) require selecting at least four courses from BIOL 100, ECON 103, PS 120, PSY 120 and SOC 120. Recommended electives include CRIM 382, PSY 300 (Statistics), SW 100, SW 110, SW 310, SW 390 and SW 395.

Entry requirements

Admission to the social work major is a two‑step process: first admission to Fresno Pacific University, then application to the social work program during the second year once 45 units have been completed. Applicants must normally have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, successful completion of lower‑level social work courses, evidence of a calling to social work, and the ability to meet program and internship requirements. Transfers may be admitted on a space‑available basis if prerequisites are met. The program application requires a completed and signed application and a personal statement; eligible candidates are interviewed and decisions are provided within about three weeks of process completion.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry‑level social work and service roles and for pursuit of graduate social work education where required by employers or licensure pathways. Training in policy practice, community engagement, assessment, intervention and program evaluation supports work in settings such as community agencies, schools, healthcare, nonprofit organizations and public administration.

Scholarships & funding angle

Fresno Pacific references cost and financial aid resources; students should consult the university's financial aid office for scholarships, grants and aid packages applicable to undergraduate students. Early contact with financial aid advisors can help identify funding and planning options while applying.