Social Work
Major
Program Overview
Social work is a professional degree and major for people who want to make a change in the world. Social workers advocate for social justice, help people meet life’s challenges and make a positive impact on the world.
AT A GLANCE
Why This Program & What You'll Learn
Our social work program is accredited through the Council on Social Work Education, so you know this program will prepare you for a life of service to those around you. When you graduate, you'll be ready to apply your new skills to build a more just society. You’ll learn to partner with others as they overcome life challenges such as homelessness, addiction and domestic violence, or as they negotiate life changes, such as illness, aging or unemployment. You will also learn how to tackle big social problems through changing society itself or updating laws.
Our faculty are dedicated teachers, and our classes are small and personal. You’ll learn outside the classroom as well. As part of the curriculum, you’ll gain experience at a community agency such as a crisis line, domestic violence shelter or child welfare program. You’ll also complete a 400 hour field education practicum (internship), where you'll get hands-on experience in a professional setting.
Our social work program gives you a foundation of knowledge to prepare you for professional work with a diversity of people.
Program Highlights
As a social work student at CMU, you can:
- Join the Student Social Work Association, where you can get to know your classmates better, learn about graduate schools or social work licensure, and share in social work-related projects.
- Participate in the Phi Alpha Honor Society for Social Work, where you can do service projects with other social work students or earn an award for academic excellence.
- Work with faculty who have a passion for social work practice and want to help you find your point of social work passion.
- Volunteer with local, national and international organizations.
- Conduct undergraduate research in partnership with faculty.
- Get applied experience in a social work setting.
Careers & Outcomes
Graduates of our social work program may apply for licensure in Michigan and states where the BSW is recognized. Graduates start professional jobs with children and youth in foster care, in community programs, or in juvenile justice settings. They may want to take their skills to services for the elderly, survivors of domestic violence, or people who need jobs. They are also prepared to work for an elected official or run for office themselves.
Social work majors may take a service year through Peace Corps or AmeriCorps. Others are hired immediately with the BSW or go on to an MSW program.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Child/Family/School/General Social Worker | $50,820 |
| Community Relations Director | $58,212 |
| Community Planner | $78,500 |
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