Lesley University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines liberal arts and professional social work courses to develop practice knowledge, values and skills. Core topics typically include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work research and statistics, diversity and cultural competence, ethics and professional identity, and clinical practice with individuals, families and groups.

• Foundations: introductory courses in social work practice, history of the profession and social welfare policy.
• Practice courses: assessment and intervention across the life span, group work, family systems, trauma-informed practice and crisis intervention.
• Populations and settings: coursework on child and family services, mental health, substance use, ageing, schools, and community organising.
• Research and policy: applied research methods, program evaluation and policy analysis to inform evidence-based practice.
• Field education: sustained supervised practicum placements in community agencies, health settings or schools that integrate classroom learning with real-world practice.
• Capstone: integrative seminar or practicum-based project that demonstrates competency across practice domains.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a record of successful college-preparatory coursework. Lesley reviews transcripts, a personal statement or essay outlining interest in social work, and at least one academic or professional reference. Some applicants may be invited to an interview to discuss readiness for the profession.

• High school transcripts or prior college transcripts for transfer students.
• Personal statement addressing commitment to social work values and relevant experience.
• One or more references from teachers, employers or community supervisors.
• Criminal background check and documentation as required for placement in field settings.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency and certified transcripts.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW enter the workforce in entry-level professional social work roles or continue to graduate study (for example an MSW) to qualify for clinical licensure. Common employment settings include child welfare agencies, community and non-profit organisations, hospitals and health centres, schools, mental health and substance-use treatment programmes, and probation or juvenile justice services.

• Case manager or direct service worker in community agencies
• Child and family services practitioner or family support specialist
• Behavioural health support worker in hospitals or clinics
• School social work assistant or youth programme coordinator (may require additional certification for school licensure)
• Advocacy, outreach and community organising roles
• Pathway to MSW and clinical licensure for private practice or advanced clinical roles

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley’s BSW emphasises applied learning within an interdisciplinary liberal arts environment and sustained partnerships with community organisations in the Boston area. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty who are experienced practitioners, and field placements designed to build professional competence. The social work programmes are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which aligns the curriculum with national practice standards and supports graduates pursuing professional licensure and graduate study.

Lesley’s location and community connections provide diverse practicum opportunities across urban, school, health and non-profit settings, helping students gain the practical experience and professional networks needed to begin a career in social work or to pursue advanced degrees.