Bachelor of Social Work
The BSW Program at Illinois
Our Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for entry-level, professional, and generalist social work practice. It also provides a pathway for advanced standing entry into a Master of Social Work (MSW) program, allowing for faster progression to higher-level roles.
Through a blend of classroom learning and immersive field education, you will gain hands-on experience working with individuals, families, groups, and communities. A BSW opens doors to a variety of career paths in areas such as healthcare, mental health, child welfare, criminal justice, and community development. Whether you’re advocating for policy change, providing direct services, or managing social programs, your BSW will equip you to make a meaningful impact in diverse social work settings.
Our program is currently ranked in the top ten undergraduate social work schools in the nation by College Factual.
Admissions Requirements & Deadlines
Ready to apply or learn more about the admissions process? Visit our BSW Admissions page for everything you need to know about requirements, deadlines, and application steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our Bachelor of Social Work program? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for quick answers to the most common questions about admissions, program options, and more.
Campus Program
The BSW program prepares students for entry-level, generalist social work practice. Earning a BSW opens the door to diverse career opportunities and provides a strong foundation for advanced graduate study in social work.
Online Program
This online program enables community college graduates and transfer students with junior standing to earn a Bachelor of Social Work degree entirely online, with in-person internships in their local community.
Undergraduate Minor
The Social Work Minor allows you to combine your primary field of study with social welfare and professional social work. It focuses on applying social work theories, policies, and research to address key social issues.
A hands-on internship designed for you
Your internship lets you apply classroom learning in community agencies, giving you hands-on experience in the profession. It offers opportunities to practice generalist social work with diverse populations, working with individuals, groups, families, and organizations.
Request More Info
Ready to learn more? Request more information about our Bachelor of Social Work program to explore how you can drive positive change in the world.
Attend an Info Session
Join us for an interactive session, available both online and in-person, to connect directly with our experienced admissions staff. Ask questions and discover the full range of program options we offer.
BSW Advising
Need help navigating the BSW program? Our dedicated undergrad student staff are here to support you—reach out to get personalized guidance and answers to all your questions.
Learn More
If you want to learn more about our BSW program options, get in touch with Undergraduate Affairs Coordinator