University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum provides a foundation in social work knowledge, skills and values for entry-level professional practice. Core study areas include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, research methods for social work, and social work ethics and professional practice.

• Foundations: introduction to social work, professional ethics, and historical and contemporary social welfare systems.
• Human development and diversity: lifespan development, cultural competence, working with Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and other diverse communities.
• Practice courses: generalist practice with individuals, families, groups and communities; assessment, intervention and case management skills.
• Policy and advocacy: analysis of social policy, advocacy methods, and programme development and evaluation.
• Research and evaluation: basic research design, statistics for social work, and evidence‑informed practice.
• Specialist topics: courses often include child and family practice, substance misuse and mental health, gerontology, homelessness, and criminal justice/social work interfaces.
• Field practicum: supervised placements in community agencies, hospitals, schools or government services are an essential component, allowing students to integrate classroom learning with professional practice under qualified supervision.

The programme typically includes general education requirements from the University alongside your major courses, and emphasises culturally grounded approaches relevant to Hawaiian and Pacific Islander contexts.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and declaration or admission into the BSW major are separate steps. Typical entry expectations include:

• A completed secondary education or equivalent and meeting the university's undergraduate admission standards.
• Satisfactory academic standing with a competitive GPA in prior study; some social work sequences require a minimum GPA in prerequisite courses before progression into advanced social work classes.
• Prerequisite courses commonly include English composition, introductory social sciences (such as sociology or psychology), and statistics or research methods.
• Submission of a personal statement or writing sample describing interest in social work, relevant experience and commitment to working with diverse communities.
• Some programmes may request references or documentation of volunteer/work experience in human services; selection for practicum placements requires background checks and immunisation/health clearances as mandated by placement agencies.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university.

Admission processes and specific grade thresholds can vary; applicants should consult the School of Social Work and university undergraduate admissions for current procedural details.

Career prospects

A BSW prepares graduates for a range of entry‑level social service roles across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Case manager or care coordinator in child welfare, community mental health, ageing services or housing programmes.
• Community outreach worker, programme support or advocacy roles with non‑profits and social service agencies.
• Behavioural health technician or support worker in hospitals, clinics and substance misuse programmes.
• School support roles or para‑professional positions in education settings.
• Positions in corrections, probation services or re‑entry programmes focusing on rehabilitation and social support.

Graduates who wish to provide clinical therapy or attain full professional licensure typically proceed to a Master of Social Work (MSW) and meet state licensure requirements. The BSW also provides a strong foundation for careers in policy, programme administration, research assistance and further study in related disciplines.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers distinctive strengths for social work students, including a curriculum informed by Pacific and Indigenous perspectives and strong community engagement across the Hawaiian Islands. The School of Social Work maintains partnerships with state agencies, health providers and community organisations, providing diverse practicum placements and opportunities to work with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities.

• Location and community partnerships: placements and fieldwork opportunities across urban and rural island settings give practical experience in a wide range of service contexts.
• Culturally responsive teaching: emphasis on culturally informed practice, social justice and trauma‑informed care relevant to local populations.
• Research and resources: access to university research centres and interdisciplinary collaboration in public health, education and community development.
• Support for professional development: faculty and career services assist with licensure planning, MSW pathways and connections to local employers.

Overall, the BSW at UH Mānoa is suited to students seeking a community‑centred, practice‑oriented education with particular relevance to Pacific and Indigenous social contexts.