What makes this program special?
The Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Social Work is an applied degree, allowing students who graduate from the program to begin work as a professional social worker. All students participate in an intensive social work practicum where they are able to apply the skills, values and knowledge gained from their academic studies. Social work is a career that can make a difference. The program size is ideal for students who appreciate small class size, quality student and faculty interaction and individualized field internships.

Are there any additional admission requirements?  
While students may declare their major at any time, a student’s declaration of a major in social work does not guarantee admission to the program. Students are eligible to apply and be formally admitted to the program if they have attained an overall 2.50 grade-point average and have completed 35 credit hours. In addition, applicants must successfully complete SOCW 151, and have completed or be enrolled in SOCW 251 and SOCW 253. Students must apply for admission when they have completed 18 hours of social work courses. Students are required to maintain an overall 2.50 GPA each semester after admission in order to remain in the program.

What scholarship monies are available?
All students are considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission. Additional scholarships are available based on FAFSA information. The Martha Cabe Queen scholarship is available through the Social Work department.

What will I be able to do with this degree when I graduate?
Social workers are trained to help individuals, groups and communities who may be facing a vast range of social problems and issues. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 600,000 people hold social work degrees and the profession is expected to grow by 30 percent by 2010. Professional social workers are found in every facet of society, including schools, mental health facilities, senior centers, private practice, prisons, military, elected office, and numerous public and private agencies. The department of Social Work provides undergraduates with the highest quality of social work education to prepare them for beginning social work practice and/or to pursue graduate training.

What are the professors like?
Faculty in the department of Social Work are well-trained practitioners and educators who represent an assortment of academic backgrounds and professional experiences. Some areas of expertise include specializations in clinical social work, mental health, child welfare, school social work, marriage and family therapy, social policy, and community practice. The Department of Social Work’s mission is to provide the highest quality of social work education to students so they will have the best preparation for beginning and advanced social work practice.

What are the students in the program doing?
Currently, students are completing their field placements with Jackson County Schools, Department of Social Services, Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, Meridian Behavioral Health, REACH, Jackson County Health Department, and Women at Risk. Our recent graduates are involved in an array of diverse and exciting postgraduate activities. We have graduates who are pursuing their master’s degree in social work, divinity and counseling. Others are working with the North Carolina Department of Social Services, school systems, nursing homes, group homes, hospitals, health centers and addiction treatment centers.

Will I be able to participate in internships, clubs and other extracurricular opportunities?
The department has two active student groups. Phi Alpha is a National Honor Society for social work students. This organization recently joined the Student Social Work Association so that the two groups can combine their resources and work together on service projects. The purpose of Phi Alpha is to provide an opportunity for student fellowship and to promote humanitarian ideals. Social work students who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work are invited to join Phi Alpha. The Student Social Work Association (SSWA) is open to all interested social work students. While only members of Phi Alpha may serve as officers, other students can take on leadership roles by heading up committees or taking the lead in service projects. Becoming active in this group is a great way for students to become empowered by letting their voices, opinions and ideas be heard!

Contact

Martha Tolley
Email: mtolley@email.wcu.edu
phone: 828-227-7112
Visit the Social Work Program Website