Capital University

What you'll study

The BSW curriculum combines liberal arts foundations with professional social work coursework to develop practice, policy and research skills. Core modules typically cover human behaviour in the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice with individuals and families, group work, community practice, and research methods for social work. Themes of ethics, cultural competence, anti-oppression practice and trauma-informed care run through classroom work.

A major component is supervised field education: students complete structured placements with partner agencies in areas such as child and family services, schools, healthcare, mental health agencies, corrections, and community development. Field placements are supported by seminars that integrate theory and practice and help students build professional skills, reflective practice and case management competencies.

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Social Work Practice
• Human Development and Behaviour in the Social Environment
• Social Policy and Advocacy
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
• Clinical Practice: Assessment and Intervention
• Group and Community Practice
• Field Practicum I and II (supervised placements)
• Ethics and Professionalism in Social Work

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent and meet Capital University’s general admission standards. Admissions typically consider academic records, a personal statement outlining interest in social work and commitment to service, and one or more references. Prior experience in volunteer or paid human services, and coursework in social sciences (for example psychology or sociology), can strengthen an application. Mature applicants and transfer students are assessed on a combination of prior academic performance and relevant life or work experience.

Because field education involves work with vulnerable populations and external agencies, successful applicants must satisfy any required background checks and clearances before placement.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSW from Capital University are prepared for entry-level professional roles in a range of human service settings. Common early-career positions include caseworker, family support worker, school social work assistant, community outreach coordinator, crisis intervention worker and mental health technician. Many graduates work for child welfare services, non-profit organisations, healthcare providers, schools, probation and rehabilitation services, or local government.

The BSW also provides a pathway to graduate study; graduates who wish to pursue clinical practice, leadership roles or specialised areas often go on to a Master of Social Work (MSW) to qualify for advanced clinical licensure and higher-level positions.

Why study at Capital University

Capital University offers a BSW grounded in a liberal arts context with small class sizes, close faculty supervision and strong links with community agencies across the region. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring the curriculum meets professional standards for social work education. Students benefit from hands-on field placements arranged through established partnerships, opportunities for faculty mentoring and involvement in community-engaged projects that emphasise social justice and ethical practice.