Syracuse University

What you'll study

The programme combines a liberal-arts foundation with core social-work professional courses. Early study typically covers human development and behaviour, introduction to social welfare and policy, and foundations of social work practice. Core modules emphasise assessment and intervention across practice levels, including work with individuals, families, groups and communities, as well as courses in cultural competence, ethics and professional values.

Students also study social-work research methods and programme evaluation to understand and apply evidence to practice, and take courses addressing clinical topics such as mental health, substance misuse, child and family welfare, and services for older adults. The curriculum integrates classroom seminars with a sustained field practicum in community agencies, health settings, schools or government services, and often includes a practicum seminar or skills lab to support supervised practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school academic record. Admissions decisions take into account overall academic performance, the strength of curricular preparation (particularly in humanities and social sciences), extracurricular or volunteer experience relevant to social services, and a written personal statement describing interest in social work.

• Secondary-school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Competitive academic record with coursework in English and social sciences recommended.
• Personal statement setting out motivations for social work and relevant experience.
• Letters of recommendation may be requested or considered as part of the application.
• International applicants must demonstrate English-language proficiency according to university requirements.

Prospective students should consult Syracuse University admissions for specific documentation, any test-score policies, and additional faculty/departmental requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in social work enter a wide range of front-line roles in non-profit organisations, healthcare, schools, child welfare agencies, mental-health services, community development projects and criminal-justice settings. Typical job titles include caseworker, care coordinator, community outreach worker, school social worker assistant, and family-support specialist.

The degree also provides the standard foundation for those who wish to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) and obtain clinical licensure or advance into policy, administration and specialised clinical roles. Graduates frequently work in roles focused on advocacy, programme development, service delivery and applied research within local, national and international contexts.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse’s social-work programme is delivered within a college that emphasises interdisciplinary study and community engagement, giving students access to faculty with applied practice and research expertise. The programme’s strong connections with community agencies in Central New York and beyond provide a wide range of practicum placements that expose students to diverse client populations and service systems.

Students benefit from small-group instruction in practice courses, opportunities for fieldwork supported by practicum seminars, and campus resources such as career services, research centres and student organisations focused on social justice and service. The combination of classroom theory, applied research training and sustained field experience is designed to prepare graduates for effective, ethical practice and for further professional study.