Alvernia University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundation social work theory with advanced practice skills, emphasising ethical, evidence-informed interventions and culturally responsive practice. Coursework covers assessment and diagnostic skills, clinical interventions, human behaviour across the lifespan, and community and organisational practice.

• Core modules: Human Behaviour and the Social Environment; Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families; Group Work and Family Therapy; Social Policy and Services; Ethics and Professional Practice.
• Advanced practice modules: Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis, Trauma-Informed Practice, Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders, Advanced Psychopathology, Brief and Long-Term Intervention Strategies.
• Research and evaluation: Research Methods for Social Work, Program Evaluation, and Evidence-Based Practice to support service delivery and outcomes measurement.
• Field education: Supervised practicum placements are a central component, typically completed across multiple semesters in community agencies, healthcare settings, schools or child welfare organisations. Placements are complemented by a practicum seminar and integrative capstone or advanced clinical practicum.
• Flexible study pathways: The programme usually offers full-time and part-time options and may include evening, weekend or hybrid delivery to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical entry considerations include undergraduate GPA, relevance of prior coursework (such as social sciences or related fields), letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining commitment to social work, and a current CV or résumé.

Additional requirements commonly include a non-criminal background check and documentation of required health clearances for placement agencies. Some applicants with significant professional experience in human services may be considered for conditional admission; where applicable, pre-admission prerequisites in introductory social work or statistics may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of professional roles in public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common career pathways include clinical social worker or therapist in mental health settings, child welfare practitioner, school social worker, medical or hospital social worker, community organiser, substance misuse counsellor and case manager.

The programme also provides the academic and practicum foundation needed to pursue professional licensure where applicable (for example clinical social work credentials), and to move into supervisory, policy, programme development and advocacy roles within human services organisations.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a small-cohort, student-centred learning environment with faculty who bring experienced practice backgrounds to teaching and supervision. The programme emphasises applied learning through extensive field placement partnerships with local and regional agencies, allowing students to develop hands-on skills under licensed supervisors.

Rooted in a values-based liberal arts tradition, the curriculum emphasises ethical practice, social justice and cultural humility. Students benefit from personalised academic advising, professional development support for licensure preparation and networking opportunities with community partners that help transition graduates into paid positions.