Walden University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum covers foundational knowledge, practice skills and applied field experience needed for generalist social work practice. Core topics typically include human development and behaviour, social welfare policy, diversity and cultural competence, ethics and professional standards, and research methods for social work.

• Practice courses: methods for working with individuals, families and groups; assessment, intervention planning and case management; community practice and organisational dynamics.
• Policy and systems: social welfare history, policy analysis, advocacy, and how policy influences practice with vulnerable populations.
• Research and evaluation: basic research design, programme evaluation and application of evidence-informed practice.
• Contextual courses: courses on diversity, human development across the life course, mental health, substance use, and trauma-informed care.
• Field practicum / internship: a supervised, competency-based practicum that places students in community, health, school or social service settings to apply classroom learning in real-world practice under professional supervision.
• Capstone or integrative experience: a culminating project or integrative seminar that synthesises knowledge, practice skills and professional identity.

Entry requirements

Admission to the BSW typically requires a secondary school completion credential (high school diploma or equivalent) or prior post-secondary credits. Applicants are normally asked to submit academic transcripts and may need to meet a minimum GPA threshold. Additional elements often included in the application are a personal statement or essay, and one or more references.

• High school diploma, GED or equivalent; transfer applicants submit college transcripts.
• Minimum academic standing as defined by the university; GPA requirements vary by programme and applicant background.
• A personal statement outlining interest in social work and relevant experience or motivation.
• Some programmes require background checks, immunisation records or professional clearances prior to placement in field practicum settings.
• Transfer credit evaluation for students with prior higher-education coursework; life and work experience may be assessed for prior learning credit where appropriate.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW are prepared for entry-level professional roles in a broad range of settings. Common job titles and sectors include:

• Child welfare worker, family support worker or caseworker in social services departments and non-profits.
• School support staff, juvenile services, youth outreach and community programmes.
• Health and behavioural health settings such as hospitals, community health centres and substance misuse services providing care coordination and support.
• Housing and homelessness services, eldercare organisations, and advocacy or disability support agencies.
• Roles in policy, programme coordination and community development at local government and non-governmental organisations.

Many BSW graduates choose to enter the workforce directly in generalist roles; others use the BSW as the foundation for study at the master's level (MSW) to pursue clinical licensure, advanced practice, leadership or specialised fields.

Why study at Walden University

Walden offers a flexible, predominantly online BSW pathway aimed at working adults and those needing adaptable study patterns. The programme emphasises applied learning with a required practicum component that places students in supervised community settings to gain practical experience.

• Flexible delivery: online coursework and multiple scheduling options allow students to balance study with work and personal commitments.
• Practice-focused faculty: instructors with professional social work experience who integrate real-world practice examples into teaching.
• Field placement support: guidance in securing practicum placements and supervision to meet competency requirements for entry-level practice.
• Pathways to advanced study: alignment with graduate social work study for students who intend to progress to an MSW and pursue clinical licensure.
• Student support services: academic advising, career services and resources for online learners to support retention and career preparation.