University of Massachusetts Boston

What you'll study

The programme combines classroom learning, skills labs and supervised field education to build competencies in assessment, intervention, advocacy and research. Core topics include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice with individuals and families, group work and community practice, and research methods for social workers.

• Practice courses: introductory and advanced practice courses covering interviewing, case management, short-term and long-term interventions, crisis intervention and culturally responsive approaches.
• Policy and systems: study of social welfare history, policy analysis, programmes for children and families, health and mental health systems, and policy advocacy.
• Human behaviour and diversity: lifespan development, social determinants of health, anti-oppressive practice and working with diverse populations.
• Research and evaluation: quantitative and qualitative methods, programme evaluation and using evidence to inform practice.
• Field education: supervised practicum placements in community, health, school or government agencies providing hands-on experience under licensed social work supervision.
• Electives and concentrations: options typically allow focus on areas such as mental health, ageing, child and family services, community organising, or public health-related topics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions requirements include a competitive secondary school record and submission of transcripts. A personal statement outlining interest in social work and relevant experience is usually required.

• Evidence of coursework in relevant areas (for example, social sciences, English) strengthens an application.
• Some programmes value or require prior volunteer or paid experience in human services, community work or related settings.
• Successful applicants should be prepared for background checks, immunisation requirements and other clearances that are commonly required for field placements.
• Applicants who already hold college credit should consult transfer policies; advanced standing for prior coursework or associate-level social work degrees may be available.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level professional roles in a wide range of settings and for further study at graduate level. Common career destinations include:

• Child welfare and family services agencies
• Mental health and substance misuse services
• Hospitals, community health centres and hospice care
• School-based social work and educational support services
• Community development organisations, homelessness and housing services
• Criminal justice and re-entry programmes
• Policy, advocacy and non-profit programme coordination

Many graduates enter the workforce as licensed social workers where licensure requirements apply, while others choose to progress to a Master of Social Work (MSW) for clinical practice, advanced leadership roles or specialised practice areas.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Boston

University of Massachusetts Boston offers a social work degree grounded in urban practice and social justice, with strong links to the city’s broad network of community organisations and public agencies. The campus’s location provides abundant placement and internship opportunities across diverse practice settings, from hospitals and schools to non-profit community programmes.

• Field education is central to the curriculum, with supervised placements that connect classroom learning to real-world practice.
• Faculty bring a mix of academic research and frontline professional experience, often focusing on issues such as health equity, homelessness, family services and community organising.
• The university emphasises diversity, inclusion and support for students from varied backgrounds, including services for first-generation and commuter students.
• Opportunities exist to collaborate with interdisciplinary programmes and to engage in community-based research, policy projects and advocacy initiatives across the Boston region.