Carver School of Social Work: Bachelor Program

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Campbellsville University is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to create real change. Whether you're learning on-campus or online, you’ll gain hands-on experience, connect with experienced faculty, and be part of a supportive community.

With opportunities like mission trips, service learning, and the CWPrep program for those interested in Child Protection careers, the BSW program sets you up for success as you work toward a meaningful career in social work.

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Program Overview:

Campbellsville University’s Carver School of Social Work BSW Program emphasizes academic excellence, Christian leadership, and personal growth in a supportive environment. Grounded in the liberal arts and the person-in-environment framework, the program equips students with prevention and intervention skills to work with diverse individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students apply ethical principles and critical thinking at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels, while advocating for human rights and social justice. The program also focuses on recognizing and building on human strengths and resiliency, encouraging research-informed practice and responsiveness to contextual impacts in social work.

Program Highlights:

Foundation of Faith: Grounded in Christian faith, the program promotes respect for human rights, diversity, and global perspectives on justice.
Evidence-Based Curriculum: Integrates scientific inquiry and evidence-based methods to equip students for practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Courses Offered: Includes topics like social policy, social justice, human development, diversity, and mixed methods research, covering micro, mezzo, and macro levels of practice.
Career Exploration: Elective courses allow students to explore various practice areas, including medical social work, child abuse interventions, school social work, addiction, and more.
Field Education: Requires 450 hours of supervised practicum in a social service agency, completed in one or two semesters based on student preference.
Experienced, Compassionate Faculty: Faculty members bring extensive experience in social work practice and are dedicated to student success.
Servant Leader Development: Graduates are equipped to be servant leaders, committed to professional growth, leadership, and Christian service in social work.

At Campbellsville University, our Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program offers a comprehensive education that blends academic rigor with real-world experience. Here’s why CU is the right choice for your social work education:

Accredited, Quality Education
Our BSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring you receive a high-quality education that meets national standards and prepares you for success in the field.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Through service learning, mission trips, and field placements, you’ll gain practical experience that helps you develop the skills needed to make a positive impact in communities, both locally and globally.
Supportive Faculty and Staff
Our faculty members are experienced professionals who provide personalized attention and guidance, ensuring your academic and professional growth. They are committed to helping you succeed both in the classroom and in your future career.
Flexible Learning Options
We understand that life can be busy, which is why our BSW program is available both on-campus and 100% online. This flexibility allows you to earn your degree in a way that works best for your lifestyle.
Christian Values at the Core
At CU, we integrate Christian principles into our social work program, empowering you to approach your work with a servant leadership mindset. You’ll be prepared to advocate for social justice while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Choose CU for your Bachelor of Social Work program and start your journey toward a rewarding career that impacts lives and communities for the better.

Campbellsville University offers a wide variety of courses across multiple campuses, including Campbellsville, Harrodsburg, and Somerset and through CU Online. These programs are designed to provide students with both the academic foundation and practical skills required for successful careers in social work and other fields. Our flexible course offerings maintain the high academic standards CU is known for, whether you prefer on-campus, hybrid, or fully online options.

Here are some key courses you may take as part of your social work degree at Campbellsville University:

Introduction to Social Work: An overview of the social work profession, including history, values, ethics, and key practice areas.
Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Focuses on understanding human development and behavior across the lifespan and exploring how individuals interact with their environments.
Social Welfare Policy and Services: Examines social welfare policies, the social service delivery system, and how public policies impact social work practice.
Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families: Introduces the skills and techniques required to engage with individuals and families in social work settings.
Research Methods in Social Work: Covers basic research methods and how they apply to social work practice, including data collection, analysis, and evaluation.
Cultural Competency and Diversity in Social Work: Focuses on understanding diverse cultural perspectives and the importance of cultural competence in social work practice.
Social Work with Groups: Explores group dynamics and the methods used to facilitate effective group work in various social work contexts.
Field Practicum: A hands-on, supervised placement that allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world social work settings, working with clients, communities, and agencies.

These courses are available through flexible learning formats, making it easy for you to earn your degree, whether through traditional campus classes or the fully online CU Online platform.

Our dedicated faculty, who have real-world experience in the field, provide you with a supportive and engaging learning environment, helping ensure your academic and professional success. Whether you’re starting your journey in social work or continuing your education, Campbellsville University offers the courses and flexibility you need to succeed.

To be admitted into the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Campbellsville University, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Request more information by contacting our office at (270) 789-5049 or Dr. Anne Adcock, BSW Director at 270-789-5593 or acadcock@campbellsville.edu.
Completion of 30 credit hours of general education requirements;
Completion of BIO 110, PSY 111, SOC 110, and POL 110 with a grade of C or better;
A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or higher (GPA>2.50 will be considered for conditional acceptance; however, 2.75 must be achieved prior to entering field practicum);
Completion of SWK 210 with a grade of C or better;
Application form completed and submitted to the Carver School Admissions Committee.
A transcript containing all college credits obtained at institutions previously attended;
One letter of recommendation (using BSW Recommendation Form) from community leaders, pastors, teachers, or professionals who have knowledge of your values, ethics, interpersonal and learning skills; (Relatives are not acceptable recommendation sources)
Applications will be reviewed by the Carver School Admissions Committee; The Admissions Committee may request a face-to-face interview with any applicant.
Signed statement on application of understanding affirming the support for NASW Code of Ethics and the standards of this BSW program

By meeting these requirements, you’ll be on your way to beginning your journey toward a rewarding career in social work through Campbellsville University’s Bachelor of Social Work program. If you're ready to take the next step in your social work career and make a meaningful impact, the Bachelor of Social Work program at Campbellsville University is the ideal choice. For more information on admissions or to apply, reach out to our Social Work team at cssw@campbellsville.edu.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program can pursue a wide variety of rewarding careers across various fields, ranging from healthcare to public policy. With a solid foundation in social work principles and hands-on experience, you’ll be prepared to make a real difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

What can I do with a Social Work Degree?

Social work is a broad field with job possibilities in these areas:

Public & Child Welfare Agencies
Private Social Service Agencies
Prisons and Correctional Facilities
Courts
Police Departments
Elementary and Secondary Schools
Early Intervention Programs
Behavioral Health Systems
Drug/ Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers
Family Service Agencies
Residential and Outpatient Hospitals/ Treatment Centers
Colleges and Universities
Research Institutes
Community Agencies
Public Health Programs
Nursing Homes/ Senior Centers

The Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep) program is designed to help undergraduate social work students launch their careers in child welfare. It offers a combination of tuition coverage, a stipend, and hands-on training to ensure student success in this vital field. Through field placements and real-world experience, students develop practical skills in case management, advocacy, and trauma-informed care, preparing them for meaningful careers in child welfare. CW Prep is dedicated to training the next generation of professionals committed to making a positive impact on children and families.

Applications are due by October 15th for Fall or April 15th for Spring. For any questions, contact Dr. DeNika VanCleave, CW Prep Director, at advancleave@campbellsville.edu.

Learn more about the Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep) program on the official website.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Campbellsville University are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of careers in social work. With a focus on social justice, advocacy, and service to diverse communities, our BSW graduates are prepared to work in various settings including healthcare, government, schools, nonprofit organizations, and more. Upon completion of the program, students will be ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families, with opportunities for both direct practice and policy work.

“I can remember my professor telling me that we are lifelong learners and that we should always understand the importance of advocacy.”

Timothy Chandler, BSW Graduate 2021

Program Resources:

The Bachelor of Social Work Handbook provides essential information about the Bachelor of Social Work program, including policies, procedures, and academic expectations.

The Field Manual outlines guidelines and requirements for field placements, ensuring students receive the hands-on experience necessary for success in social work.

The BSW Program Requirements document outlines the necessary academic criteria, required courses, and essential steps for successfully completing the Bachelor of Social Work program, ensuring students understand the program structure and graduation requirements.

The Bachelor of Social Work In-Person Application allows students to apply directly to the program through an in-person submission, making the application process straightforward and personalized.

The Bachelor of Social Work CU Online Application provides a convenient and accessible way for students to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program from anywhere, streamlining the admissions process.

Let's Connect!

Contact our office at 270-789-5049, or reach out directly to Dr. Anne Adcock, the BSW Director, at 270-789-5593 or via email at acadcock@campbellsville.edu. Online students, connect with your Admissions Counselor by filling out this form.

Take a virtual tour, visit our campuses, or explore your department of interest to get a firsthand look at Campbellsville University. Whether online or in person, we’re excited to show you all that CU has to offer.