Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Small Classes
Illinois’ Social Work student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1
Top Ranked
Illinois was ranked the #9 public university and the #33 national university in 2024-2025
U.S. News & World Report
First Destination Outcomes
98% of BSW graduates secured employment or continued their education after graduation
The undergraduate BSW Program at the School of Social Work provides a comprehensive educational experience for junior level transfer students and prepares graduates for excellence in the areas of social work practice, policy, community engagement, and leadership, and entry into three potential tracks upon degree completion, including (but not limited to):
- Generalist social work practice
- Advanced standing in graduate social work programs
- Career opportunities or graduate education in areas such as: communications, corrections, business, education, government, health care, human resources, law, non-profit organizations, religious studies, and public service.
On Campus and Online Options
Pursue your BSW
On Campus
Our on campus undergraduate program equips students for entry-level, professional and generalist social work practice. Your degree will open doors to diverse and rewarding career pathways in the field.
Earn Your BSW Online
Our CSWE-accredited online program is designed for community college graduates and transfer students with junior standing (60 credit hours). Complete your degree with a blend of fully online courses and in-person internship placements near your community.
Hands-On Learning Designed for You
Immersive Opportunities
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.
Experience the World Through Social Work
Our International Internship and Service Learning programs offer hands-on experiences addressing global social challenges. Students have worked in South Africa, Greece, Japan and more on issues like health disparities, mental health, human rights, and child welfare. These opportunities deepen your understanding of global social issues, equip you to drive change locally and internationally, and shape your career and life.
Questions?
Attend an info session to learn more about program specifics and meet with staff who can help answer your questions.
Register NowWhat are the admission requirements for the BSW program?
To be admitted to the BSW program, students must meet the University of Illinois’ general admission requirements, including completing required coursework in social work prerequisites and maintaining a minimum GPA.
For first-year students: Typically, a strong high school academic record and standardized test scores (ACT/SAT) are required.
For transfer students: Transfer students should have completed at least 30 transferable credits, including prerequisite social work courses, and must meet a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5 or higher.
What is the application process for undergraduate students for the BSW program?
First year students must apply through the University of Illinois Undergraduate Admissions portal.
Transfer students must submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended and meet specific course prerequisites.
The process involves submitting the standard application form, an official transcript and any other required documents (e.g., SAT/ACT scores for first-year applicants).
What is the process for transferring into the School of Social Work?
Transfer students must submit their transcript for review. The University of Illinois uses the Transferology tool to help determine course equivalencies, so it’s important to check how your courses will transfer.
Transfer students are accepted for Fall semester only. Students interested in a Spring start may consider the on campus BSW program.
For more information visit Transfer Admissions.
Is there a field placement or internship component?
Yes, the BSW program includes a field practicum that allows students to gain hands-on experience in social work practice. Students are required to complete field hours at local social service agencies, community centers and healthcare settings.
A day in the life of a BSW student
Follow undergraduate social work student Tamara, as she takes viewers through a day in her life as a student on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus.
Hear More from others
Rena Knysz, BSW 2027
“The School of Social Work is a community that makes me feel like I truly matter at such a large school. Through small class sizes, I’ve been able to build connections with professors, collaborate on meaningful research, and engage with a diverse group of peers and topics. The wide range of classes has deepened my passions and allowed me to explore my interests, preparing me to move confidently and excitedly into a future career in Social Work.”
Sierra Fitzpatrick-Skinner, BSW 2022
“The School gave me the tools and the direct vision for how to create better opportunities for myself and for others around me,” she says. “And the field placement was very eye-opening. That’s something you don’t find in every social work program in the country.I’ve gained colleagues, friends, and mentors. It’s been a great experience.”
Scarlett Davalos, BSW 2019
“I am incredibly grateful for the doors that were opened at the U of I as a first generation Mexican-American. I cannot be thankful enough for all the support I’ve received–from the staff, my peers, my colleagues, and the faculty.”
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