Social Work

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare them for meaningful careers in the social services field. This program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a strong commitment to social justice, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to address a wide range of societal issues affecting diverse populations. Through a combination of foundational coursework, hands-on field experiences, and research opportunities, students gain a thorough understanding of human behavior, social policies, and intervention strategies. The curriculum covers essential topics such as family dynamics, mental health, community development, and multicultural competence, ensuring students are well-prepared to work with individuals, families, and communities facing complex challenges. Rutgers University’s social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that it meets high standards of excellence and relevance. Students have access to experienced faculty members who are experts in various areas of social work and who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding them throughout their academic journey. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as child and family services, clinical social work, or community organization, allowing students to tailor their education to their career interests. Practical experience is a cornerstone of the curriculum, with internships and field placements facilitated through strong partnerships with local health agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, and government agencies. These experiential learning components enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, build professional networks, and enhance their employability upon graduation. Graduates of the BS in Social Work program are well-positioned to pursue licensure and advanced graduate studies, or to enter fields such as social services, healthcare, education, public policy, and advocacy. Whether students aspire to serve vulnerable populations, promote social change, or develop community programs, Rutgers University’s social work program provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities.

Prerequisites

Students should complete the following courses prior to enrollment in the social work program.

• 01:119:150  Biology, Society, and Biomedical Issues (3) or 01:119:154  Genetics, Law, and Social Policy (3) or 01:119:160  Biology, Society, and Ecological Issues (3) or 01:119:182  Human Sexuality (3) or 50:120:105  Facts of Life (Camden students)
• 01:830:101  General Psychology (3)
• 01:920:101  Introduction to Sociology (3) or 01:920:111  Social Class (3)
• 01:960:211  Statistics I (3) or 01:830:200  Quantitative Methods in Psychology (4) or 01:960:285  Introductory Statistics for Business (3) or 01:920:311  Introduction to Social Research (4) or 01:920:312  Computer Analysis of Social Science Data (4) or 10:762:205 Basic Statistical Methods for Policy, Planning, and Health (3)

Two additional courses, one from each of two of the following areas: art, communication/speech, history, literature, music, philosophy, religion, and theater

Course Sequence

The required courses and their recommended sequence are as follows:

Junior Year

Fall Semester

•   09:910:220  Introduction to Social Work and Social Services (3)  [This course is open to all Rutgers undergraduate students as an elective.]
•   09:910:230  Introduction to Human Sexuality (3)  [This course is open to all Rutgers undergraduate students as an elective.]
•   09:910:240  Global Health Perspectives (3)  [This course is open to all Rutgers undergraduate students as an elective.]
•   09:910:311  Social Welfare Policy and Services I (3)
•   09:910:402  Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (3)

Spring Semester

•   09:910:312  Social Welfare Policy and Services II (3)
•   09:910:332  Professional Development Seminar (3)
•   19:910:403  Human Behavior and the Social Environment II (3)
•   19:910:405  Methods of Social Work Research I (3)

Senior Year

Fall Semester

•   09:910:352  Groups at Risk in Contemporary Society (3)
•   09:910:471  Field Practicum I (6)
•   09:910:472  Generalist Practice I (3)

Spring Semester

•   09:910:473  Field Practicum II (6)
•   09:910:474  Generalist Practice II (3)
•   09:910:475  Integration Seminar (3)
•   09:910:476  Child Welfare Services and Practices (3)  [required of Baccalaureate Child Welfare Education Program (BCWEP) students and elective for other students in the major]

CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SHOULD PROVIDE:

1. Online Application for Undergraduate Admission
2. Nonrefundable $70 application fee, payable online by credit card
3. Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)
   • You may start the SRAR any time
   • You may submit it after submitting an application for undergraduate admission
4. SAT or ACT (with writing) scores submitted directly from the testing agency
5. If you took any college courses at any two- or four-year colleges, please submit official transcripts

STUDENTS WHO HAVE ALREADY GRADUATED FROM HIGH SCHOOL SHOULD PROVIDE:

1. Online Application for Undergraduate Admission
2. Nonrefundable $70 application fee, payable online by credit card
3. Final official high school transcript showing all courses with final grades in grades 9-12:
   • Transcripts must show a date of graduation; or
   • GED or equivalency diploma holders must submit test results or equivalent as well as transcripts from any high school attended
4. College transcripts if you took any college courses at a two- or four-year college
5. SAT or ACT scores (with writing) only if you graduated from high school less than two years ago and will not have at least 12 college credits completed by the application due date
6. Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT) for transfer applicants to the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy.

STUDENTS WHO ARE ATTENDING OR HAVE ATTENDED SCHOOL OUTSIDE THE USA must submit the appropriate credentials listed above, plus the following:

• Official academic credentials/examination results specific to the education system of your high school
• English Proficiency Exam scores when your secondary schooling has been in a country where English is not the principal language of instruction

Scholarships

• Merit-based awards
• National Merit Scholarships/College Sponsored Merit Award

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the social work profession or for advanced study in social work or related fields. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, social policies, and social service delivery systems. Students will develop critical thinking, communication, and advocacy skills essential for effective practice with diverse populations across various settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, community organizations, and government agencies.

The curriculum includes core courses in social welfare policy, human development, research methods, and social work practice. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience through supervised field placements, which integrate classroom learning with real-world applications. The program also focuses on ethical practices, cultural competence, and client-centered approaches to ensure graduates can serve effectively in multicultural and diverse communities.

Rutgers University’s social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that it meets national standards for professional social work education. The faculty consists of experienced professionals dedicated to teaching, research, and service, providing mentorship and guidance to students throughout their academic journey. Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills necessary for licensure as social workers and are prepared for a variety of roles within the human services sector.

The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages students to participate in research projects, community outreach initiatives, and professional development activities. Rutgers University’s central location in New Jersey provides ample opportunities for internships and employment within a vibrant and diverse social service landscape, making it an ideal setting for aspiring social workers. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers balances academic rigor with practical experience, fostering the development of competent, compassionate, and socially responsible professionals.