University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum provides a foundation in social work theory, practice, policy and research with a strong focus on applied learning. Core topics include human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, research methods for social work, ethics and professional responsibility, and anti-oppressive practice. Students progress from foundational coursework to practice-focused classes that cover assessment and intervention with individuals, families and groups, community practice, and organisation or policy-focused work.

A central element of the programme is field education: supervised practicum placements in community agencies, health and mental health settings, schools, child welfare and other social service organisations. Placements provide hands-on experience under professional supervision and are integrated with seminar coursework to connect practice and theory. Elective modules often allow study in areas such as gerontological social work, substance use and addiction, trauma-informed practice, immigrant and refugee services, and child and family services.

Typical modules and components

• Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
• Human Behaviour in the Social Environment
• Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families
• Group Practice and Community Organising
• Social Welfare Policy and Advocacy
• Research Methods for Social Work
• Field Practicum and Integrated Seminar
• Professional Ethics and Cultural Competence

Entry requirements

Admission to the BSW programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are expected to demonstrate readiness for university-level study through an acceptable academic record; specific GPA expectations vary by applicant pool and year. Colleges typically look for competencies in written communication and social sciences; courses such as English, psychology and sociology are useful preparation.

Transfer students are admitted on the basis of college transcripts and may be required to complete a minimum number of credits at the University of Michigan–Flint to qualify for the degree. All students entering practicum placements must meet placement-related requirements, which commonly include a clear criminal background check, proof of required immunisations or health screening, and liability or health insurance as required by placement agencies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW from UM–Flint are prepared for generalist social work roles across health care, mental health, child welfare, schools, corrections, non-profit agencies and community organisations. Typical entry-level job titles include case manager, community outreach worker, client advocate, mental health worker, school support staff, and family support specialist. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those who choose to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) for clinical licensure or advanced practice, and for careers in policy, administration, research and advocacy.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

The programme is delivered on a campus with strong local community ties, which supports diverse and substantive practicum placement opportunities across the Flint metropolitan area and surrounding counties. Small class sizes enable close faculty mentoring and personalised support, while faculty bring a mix of academic and practice experience in areas such as community practice, health and mental health, child welfare and policy advocacy.

Students benefit from an applied curriculum that emphasises social justice, culturally responsive practice and community engagement, and from university resources such as academic advising, career services and partnerships with local human service organisations. The practicum-focused design helps students build professional networks and practical skills that support employability or progression to graduate social work training.