Davenport University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines foundational liberal‑arts courses with core social work theory, practice, policy and research. You will study human behaviour across the lifespan, social welfare history and policy, social work practice skills, ethics, diversity and cultural competence, and evidence‑based assessment and intervention methods.

• Foundations: introduction to social work, social welfare history, human development and lifespan courses.
• Practice and Intervention: generalist practice, interviewing and assessment, group work, family and child welfare practice, and specialised practice with older adults and people with mental‑health needs.
• Policy and Advocacy: social policy analysis, community organisation, advocacy and services coordination.
• Research and Evaluation: social research methods, programme evaluation and the use of evidence in practice.
• Professional Preparation: ethics, cultural humility, trauma‑informed approaches and practicum/seminar linked to supervised field placements in community agencies, schools or healthcare settings.

The programme emphasises applied learning: classroom learning is integrated with practicum experiences and skills labs so students graduate ready for entry‑level social work roles or to progress to a Master of Social Work (MSW).

Entry requirements

Applicants typically require a high‑school diploma or equivalent. Davenport also welcomes transfer students from community colleges and those with prior college credit. Admissions consider academic preparation, a personal statement indicating interest in social work, and at least one academic or professional reference.

• Evidence of competency in written communication and general education subjects (for example, English and social studies).
• Some programmes require an interview or supplemental materials demonstrating suitability for direct practice with vulnerable populations.
• Because the degree includes supervised field placements, students must be able to meet placement requirements such as background checks, basic immunisations and reliable transport; undisclosed or unremediated criminal convictions may affect placement options.
• Transfer applicants are assessed on prior coursework; credits in sociology, psychology or human services are often relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BSW enter a wide range of human‑service roles. Typical entry‑level positions include case manager, community outreach worker, child welfare support worker, behavioural health technician, residential services worker and ageing services coordinator.

• Work settings commonly include non‑profit organisations, local government agencies, schools, hospitals and community health centres.
• Many graduates move into specialised roles or supervisory positions with experience; others progress to an MSW to qualify for clinical licensure, school social work certification or advanced clinical practice.
• The programme also prepares graduates for roles in programme development, policy support, advocacy and research assistance within social service systems.

Why study at Davenport University

Davenport offers a practical, career‑oriented social work programme with a focus on applied learning and community engagement. Small class sizes and faculty with practice experience allow for personalised instruction and mentoring.

• Strong links with local social‑service agencies provide diverse practicum placement opportunities across health, education and community sectors.
• Support services such as career advising, internship coordination and academic tutoring help students transition into the workforce or prepare for graduate study.
• Flexible delivery options, including on‑campus and blended formats, suit students balancing study with work or family commitments.
• The curriculum is designed to align with professional standards for undergraduate social work education and emphasises ethical practice, cultural competence and evidence‑informed intervention.