Clark University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational liberal arts courses with social work‑specific study to develop knowledge, values and practice skills. Early core modules typically cover human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare history and policy, ethics in social work, and introductory helping skills. Research methods and statistics for the social sciences are included to prepare students to evaluate interventions and contribute to evidence‑informed practice.

As you progress, coursework focuses on clinical and community practice: assessment and intervention across the lifespan, case management, family and child welfare practice, mental health, substance use, and working with older adults. Courses on diversity, cultural competence, trauma‑informed practice and anti‑oppression approaches are emphasised throughout the curriculum.

A key component is supervised field education: students complete practicum placements in community agencies, schools, hospitals or non‑profit organisations where they apply classroom learning under professional supervision. Capstone or integrative seminars bring together practice, policy and research learning to prepare students for entry‑level practice or further graduate study.

Typical modules and subjects

• Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
• Human Behaviour and the Social Environment
• Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups
• Social Policy and Advocacy
• Research Methods and Statistics for Social Work
• Field Education / Practicum
• Diversity, Oppression and Cultural Humility
• Trauma‑Informed Practice and Clinical Skills
• Community Organising and Macro Practice

Entry requirements

Applicants will typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement across a broad curriculum. Clark looks for students who demonstrate commitment to social justice, community engagement and the interpersonal skills suited to social work; personal statements and extra‑curricular experience working with people or in community settings strengthen an application.

Standard application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English if required. Some programmes may invite applicants to interview or submit additional writing samples; specific requirements are listed on Clark University’s admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of human services roles in settings such as community mental health centres, hospitals, schools, child welfare agencies, non‑profit organisations and criminal justice settings. Typical positions include caseworker/case manager, school support worker, family support specialist, mental health outreach worker and community organiser.

Many graduates choose to continue to graduate study (for example a Master of Social Work) to obtain clinical licensure or to pursue specialised practice areas such as clinical social work, school social work, or policy and administration. The programme also provides transferable skills valued by employers — communication, assessment, advocacy, research literacy and cross‑cultural competence.

Why study at Clark University

Clark’s undergraduate approach combines a liberal arts foundation with applied learning opportunities, allowing social work students to draw on interdisciplinary perspectives in sociology, psychology, public policy and health. Small class sizes and accessible faculty support foster close mentoring and opportunities to engage in faculty‑led research or community‑based projects.

Clark’s location provides strong links with local social service agencies and community partners, enabling meaningful practicum placements and internships in Worcester and the surrounding region. Career services, alumni networks and dedicated advising help students translate field experience into employment or graduate‑level study pathways.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a practice‑focused education grounded in social justice and community engagement, with hands‑on field training to prepare for immediate entry into the human services sector or for further professional training.