SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
Online or On-Campus BSW - Bachelor of Social Work

Why get a BSW at Illinois?

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.

Small Classes Outstanding Reputation International Internships

Earn Your Bachelor of Social Work Online

Our CSWE-accredited Online BSW program is designed for community college graduates and transfer students with junior standing (60 credit hours). Complete your degree 100% online with a blend of fully online courses and in-person internship placements near your home community.

Start Your Online BSW Journey Today

Pursue Your Bachelor of Social Work On-Campus

Our undergraduate On-Campus Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program equips students for entry-level, professional, and generalist social work practice. Earning a Bachelor's degree in Social Work opens doors to diverse and rewarding career pathways in the field.

Discover the On-Campus BSW

Why Choose Illinois?

25:1Faculty-to-student ratio

#9ranked in top 50 public institutions by US News

90%job placement rate for graduates

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.

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Transfer Student Requirements

The BSW Program welcomes transfer students from many majors and areas of interest. The program is highly structured in the junior and senior years and provides course sequencing to support academic success in the profession.

For transfer course information, prospective transfer students should consult the Transferology website, as well as communicate directly with the Undergraduate Affairs Coordinator at the School of Social Work to determine if the student’s current and/or past coursework is acceptable.

Transfer students for the Online BSW Program are accepted for Fall semester only. Students interested in a Spring start may consider the campus BSW Program. Admission to the School of Social Work requires the following:

A minimum GPA of 2.75 (A = 4.00)
Evidence of strong communication and interpersonal skills demonstrated through applicant’s personal statement
Evidence of volunteer or work experience related to the field of social work

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Learn More about the School of Social Work

Questions? Attend an info session to learn more about program specifics and meet with staff who can help answer your questions.
Information Sessions

Hear More from others

Scarlett Davalos, BSW '19 MSW '21

“I am incredibly grateful for the doors that have been opened here 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.”

Sierra Fitzpatrick-Skinner, BSW '22, current MSW student

"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."

Anne Coulomb, BSW '17

"The School has helped me gain a broader picture of the world that's more accurate. My time here has broadened my understanding of other people and has given me a taste of all the different areas that social workers focus on."

Araceli Carbajal, BSW '20, MSW Student

"Before I knew that an MSW was required to become a School Social Worker, I knew I wanted to attend graduate school. In this program, I get the opportunity to learn how social workers benefit the lives of students, families, and communities, and that’s exactly who I want to be. Right now, I am most looking forward to completing my upcoming two-semester internship at a local school and I am ready to take this next step."