Kutztown University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum at Kutztown University builds a foundation in human behaviour, social welfare policy, research methods and practice skills across the life span. Early courses cover introduction to social work, human growth and development, cultural competence, and communication skills. Core courses focus on social welfare policy and services, social work practice with individuals and families, group work, community practice, and social work research and evaluation.

A key component of the programme is supervised field education in community and agency settings, where students apply classroom learning to real-world practice under the guidance of experienced practitioners. Students also complete a senior practicum or capstone course that integrates policy, practice and research perspectives and often includes reflective practice and case management assignments.

• Foundations of social welfare and social work practice
• Human behaviour in the social environment
• Social welfare policy analysis
• Research methods for social work
• Practice courses: individual, family and group interventions
• Field practicum and senior integrative seminar

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission typically considers academic performance, personal statement, and any relevant experience working or volunteering with diverse populations. Kutztown looks for evidence of communication skills, commitment to social justice and community service, and the interpersonal qualities suited to social work practice.

Specific prerequisites may include coursework in English and social studies; transfer applicants with prior college coursework should submit official transcripts for review. Standardised tests may be optional depending on current university policy. Prospective students may also be required to participate in an interview or provide references for professional programmes or practicum placement.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW are prepared for beginning-level professional positions in a variety of human service settings, including healthcare, child welfare, schools, mental health agencies, community organisations, and correctional and probation services. Typical entry roles include case manager, community outreach worker, family support worker, school support staff, and residential services worker.

Many BSW graduates also choose to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) for advanced or clinical practice and to meet licensing requirements in many jurisdictions. The programme provides the prerequisite foundation for graduate study and for post-graduate licensure pathways where required.

Why study at Kutztown University

Kutztown University emphasises applied learning and close interaction with faculty who have professional social work experience. The programme’s field education partnerships across the region provide a range of practicum placements in urban and rural agencies, giving students exposure to diverse client populations and service systems.

Students benefit from a campus environment that supports small-group instruction, student organisations related to social work and community service, and advising that helps map undergraduate coursework to career or graduate study goals. The programme’s curriculum is designed to align classroom learning with ethical, evidence-informed practice, preparing graduates for effective entry-level work and for continuing professional development.