Bachelor of Social Work Degree
The mission of the Bachelor of Social Work Program is to prepare students for generalist social work practice with diverse populations and to cultivate community leaders who will implement humane social policies, services, and programs that restore social and economic justice for at-risk children and their families. The cornerstone of the program is commitment to personal and community well being and the cultural integrity of Native American communities.
The BSW curriculum has been developed according to the educational standards established by the Council on Social Work Education and is based on a solid liberal arts foundation that emphasizes cultural understanding, critical thinking, communication, and citizenship. The upper-level Social Work courses provide a sound knowledge base for social work practice; promote growth in self-awareness, cultural competence, and professional ethics; and prepare students for graduate-level social work education. Supervised field experience in either tribal or non-tribal social service agencies is an integral part of the program.
Accreditation
The SKC Bachelor of Social Work Program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation.
A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is the most common minimum requirement to qualify for a job as a social worker; however, majors in psychology, sociology, and related fields may qualify for some entry-level jobs, especially in small community agencies. Although a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for entry into the field, an advanced degree is required for some positions. A master’s degree in social work (MSW) is typically required for positions in health and school settings and is required for clinical work, as well. Some jobs in public and private agencies may require an advanced degree, such as an MSW with a concentration in social services policy or administration. Supervisory, administrative, and staff training positions usually require an advanced degree. College and university teaching positions and most research appointments normally require a doctorate in social work (DSW or Ph.D.).
(Information retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics website, http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos060.htm, on February 23, 2012)
Median annual wages of child, family, and school social workers were $39,530 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,040 and $52,080. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,870, and the top 10 percent earned more than $66,430.
Background Checks
Students pursuing a B.S.W. degree at SKC are required to complete a background check prior to or at the beginning of starting the Social Work Program. Criminal history and Child Protection Services background that may prevent a student from being admitted into the Social Work Program include:
- A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, for a crime against children (including pornography), for spousal abuse, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault or battery.
- A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug-related offense in the past five (5) years. • Child Protective Services history that includes substantiation of any type of child abuse and/or neglect within the past five (5) years.
- A conviction for a crime including abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a developmental disability.
- Evidence of criminal activity and/or convictions during the time of enrollment in the B.S.W. Program.
- Knowingly withholding information of prior criminal convictions. Background check instructions will be mailed to successful applicants.
Contact the Social Work Department for More Information.
Social Work Department Directory
Contact a specific faculty or staff member here.
