Explore Our Programs

Social Work


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Explore Our Programs

Social Work


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Social Work

Welcome to the Bowling Green State University social work website. We hope you enjoy looking around and learning more about the programs and opportunities here at BGSU. 

Our Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for entry-level careers to engage in social work practice with diverse populations in a variety of settings. Our Master in Social Work (MSW) program has a specialized focus in gerontology (study of older adults) and looks at client systems of all sizes with an intergenerational focus. 

Our innovative and comprehensive degree programs allow students to participate in service learning and field opportunities to gain hands-on social work practice while honing their skills in the classroom. All our students are trained to work with vulnerable populations, not only to make a difference but to learn what motivates people and communities to make positive change, and to promote social justice and human dignity for all people. Incoming first year social work students are encouraged to check out the Chapman Learning Community on campus. This organization helps not only with transition to campus life, but also provides students hands-on volunteer experience and leadership skills essential for social workers.

Students actively engage in scholarly research, either developing their own project or working with faculty, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our students consistently pass the national licensing exam at above national norms.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate, Social Work students demonstrate competence in such practice behaviors as the following:

  • engaging, assessing, intervening and evaluating individuals, families, groups, and communities;
  • analyzing the impact of social policy on client well-being and service delivery systems;
  • advocating for human rights and social and economic justice for people impoverished, disenfranchised, or devalued;
  • using professional ethics, critical reasoning, and research;

Accreditation and/or Program/Cluster Review

Bowling Green State University [BGSU] is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.  BGSU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 01/01/1916. The most recent reaffirmation of accreditation was received in 2012 - 2013. Questions should be directed to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness.

The Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and is in good standing. For more information on the review, click here.

Professional Licensure (If applicable)

Bowling Green State University programs leading to licensure, certification and/or endorsement, whether delivered online, face-to-face or in a blended format, satisfy the academic requirements for those credentials set forth by the State of Ohio.

Requirements for licensure, certification and/or endorsement eligibility vary greatly from one profession to another and from state to state. The Social Work program leads to professional licensure. For more information on the licensure, click here.

Gainful Employment (If applicable)

Under the Higher Education Act Title IV disclosure requirements, an institution must provide current and prospective students with information about each of its programs that prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.

The Social Work program is not a recognized occupation that requires a Gainful Employment disclosure.

Updated: 02/06/2024 08:27AM