University of Delaware

What you'll study

The BSW is a broad-based generalist programme combining liberal arts study with professional social work content and supervised field practicum. Over the course of the degree you will study human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy, research methods for social work, ethics and values, and practice methods with individuals, families, groups and communities.

• Core foundation courses – introductory social work, history of the social welfare system, human development across the lifespan, cultural competence and anti-oppressive practice.
• Practice courses – direct practice with individuals and families, group work, community practice and organisational approaches to service delivery.
• Policy and research – social policy analysis, programme evaluation, and research methods that support evidence-informed practice.
• Field practicum – supervised placements in community agencies or institutional settings that provide hands-on experience under a licensed social worker; placements are arranged to expose students to a range of client populations and practice settings.
• Capstone and electives – an integrative capstone or seminar and elective options that may include courses in mental health, ageing, substance use, child welfare, or school-based practice.

Typical structure follows general education and prerequisite courses in the early years, concentrated social work coursework in the middle years, and intensive practicum and capstone in the final year. Opportunities exist to engage in faculty-led research, community partnerships, and service-learning placements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are admitted to the University and then to the BSW programme following institutional undergraduate admissions processes. Typical entry expectations include a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent, a competitive academic record, and fulfilment of university-level general admissions criteria. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the university’s standard.

In many cases, progression into the professional sequence of BSW coursework and field placements is subject to internal programme review or an application process during the first or second year. That internal process commonly considers academic standing, completion of introductory courses, a personal statement, and sometimes references or evidence of relevant volunteer/work experience. Some prior experience in human services or community work is advantageous but not universally required.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW from the University of Delaware are prepared for entry-level professional roles in a wide range of settings, including child and family services, hospitals and health systems, schools, community agencies, ageing services, mental health and substance use programmes, and criminal justice settings. Specific job titles held by alumni include case manager, community outreach worker, residential counsellor, victim services advocate and school support specialist.

Graduates who wish to provide clinical therapy, obtain licensure as clinical social workers, or move into advanced clinical, administrative or academic roles typically progress to a Master of Social Work (MSW) and meet state licensure requirements. The undergraduate degree also provides preparation for related careers in policy, programme administration, research assistance, and non-profit leadership.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers BSW students a mix of liberal arts grounding and applied professional training, with access to supervised field placements across the state and in nearby metropolitan areas. The programme emphasises community engagement, interprofessional collaboration and applied research, giving students opportunities to work with experienced faculty and agency partners.

Students benefit from campus resources such as career services, academic advising, and service-learning offices that help arrange placement experiences. Proximity to a range of public agencies, hospitals and non-profit organisations allows consistent placement opportunities, while elective and co-curricular options support specialisation in areas such as health social work, child welfare or community organising.