Bachelor of Arts in Social Work

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University-Camden is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in the social services field. The curriculum integrates core social work principles with liberal arts education, equipping students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to serve diverse populations effectively. Throughout the program, students engage in critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and cultural competence to address complex social issues. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, community engagement projects, and field placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience and develop professional competencies. Faculty members, who are experts in social work and related disciplines, mentor students and foster an understanding of social justice, human rights, and advocacy. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as child and family services, mental health, substance abuse, and community development. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work are prepared to pursue entry-level social work positions or continue their education in graduate programs. By fostering a commitment to service, ethical practice, and lifelong learning, Rutgers Camden’s social work program aims to develop compassionate professionals capable of making a positive impact in communities across New Jersey and beyond.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University-Camden offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for meaningful careers in social services, community development, and social justice. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making skills necessary to effectively serve diverse populations. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that covers foundational topics such as human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy, research methods, and generalist practice techniques.

Throughout the program, students gain practical experience through supervised field placements in various settings including mental health agencies, child welfare organizations, schools, healthcare facilities, and community-based organizations. These hands-on experiences are integral to the curriculum, providing students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts and develop essential skills in case management, advocacy, and intervention strategies. The curriculum also places a strong emphasis on understanding social justice issues, promoting equity, and advocating for vulnerable populations.

Our program is designed to foster cultural humility and responsiveness, allowing students to better serve an increasingly diverse society. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers committed to mentoring students and supporting their professional growth. Upon graduation, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to pursue diverse career paths or to continue their education through advanced studies in social work, counseling, psychology, or related fields.

The Rutgers University-Camden Social Work program is accredited and aligns with national standards for social work education, ensuring graduates meet the qualifications required for certification and licensing in many jurisdictions. Whether students are interested in working directly with individuals and families or in policy and program development, this program provides a solid foundation for lifelong commitment to social change and community well-being.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) at Rutgers University-Camden requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours, including general education courses, major courses, and electives. The program emphasizes foundational knowledge in social sciences, human behavior, and social welfare policies, complemented by practical fieldwork experience. Students are expected to complete core courses such as Introduction to Social Work, Social Welfare Policy and Services, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, and Research Methods in Social Work. Advanced coursework includes Diversity and Social Justice, Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families, and Social Work with Groups and Communities. A significant component of the program is supervised field education, where students engage in internships at approved social service agencies, gaining practical skills and real-world experience. Requirements also include a capstone project integrating theoretical knowledge with professional practice. Students must maintain a minimum GPA, typically around 2.5, to progress and graduate from the program. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences related to social work and social justice issues. To complete the degree, students must fulfill all general university requirements, including liberal arts and sciences courses, such as English, psychology, sociology, and statistics. The program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in social services, or for further study in advanced social work programs or related fields. Internships are a mandatory part of the curriculum, designed to develop competencies in assessment, intervention, and advocacy. The program also promotes professional development through membership in social work organizations and adherence to the ethical standards of the National Association of Social Workers. Overall, the Rutgers-Camden Social Work program aims to produce culturally competent, ethical, and effective social work practitioners committed to social justice and service.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University-Camden offers a range of financial aid options to assist students in funding their education. Students are encouraged to explore federal financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is the primary means of determining federal grants, work-study opportunities, and Stafford Loans eligibility. The university participates in the Federal Pell Grant program, which provides need-based grants to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. Additionally, students can apply for federal Direct Loan programs, including Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, to help cover tuition and living expenses. Rutgers University-Camden also offers institutional scholarships that are awarded based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and financial need. These scholarships may be renewable annually, contingent upon maintaining certain academic standards. Students are advised to check the Rutgers University financial aid website and contact the Office of Financial Aid for detailed information on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Moreover, students may consider external scholarships, grants, and private funding sources relevant to social work and community service fields. The university also provides guidance on work-study programs that allow students to earn part-time income on campus to offset educational costs. Payment plans are available, enabling students to split tuition payments into manageable installments throughout the semester. International students, if applicable, should consult specific scholarship opportunities and financial support options tailored to their status. Overall, Rutgers University-Camden is committed to supporting its students financially through a variety of aid programs designed to make social work education accessible and affordable.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University-Camden offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for entry-level professional practice in diverse social service settings. The program emphasizes developing a strong foundation in human behavior, social welfare policies, and ethical practice, ensuring graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to positively impact individuals and communities. Students engage in coursework covering areas such as psychology, sociology, social justice, and intervention strategies, complemented by field education experiences that provide practical training in areas like family services, mental health, substance abuse, and community development.

The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, cultural competence, and professionalism, encouraging students to understand the complexities of social issues and how to address them effectively. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentorship and fostering a supportive learning environment. The program also promotes research and scholarship opportunities, enabling students to explore contemporary issues in social work and contribute to evidence-based practice.

Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue various career paths, including working in hospitals, schools, government agencies, non-profits, and private organizations. Many students choose to continue their education by applying to advanced standing programs or graduate studies in social work or related disciplines. The program adheres to accreditation standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring the quality and relevance of the education provided.

Rutgers-Camden's location offers unique opportunities for community engagement and internships, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience in urban settings. Additionally, the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion reinforces the program's emphasis on serving marginalized populations and understanding social disparities. As a result, students graduate with not only academic knowledge but also practical skills and ethical awareness to become competent social workers committed to social justice and systemic change. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Rutgers University-Camden provides a well-rounded, community-oriented education tailored to meet the needs of a diverse society and facilitate meaningful careers in social service sectors.