Social work students take a variety of classes that prepare them to become macro and micro practitioners in the field of social work.  Our students graduate with skills that prepare them to go on to Masters degree programs or to go into the workplace as case managers, community social workers, political advocates, child protective service workers, and many other positions.  Preparing students for a professional life as a social worker happens in the classroom, in their junior and senior field internships, and in our many supplemental activities that happen each semester.

In the Fall, newcomers to the social work major start off the semester at an orientation where they learn about the program and what to expect as a social work major.  The Social Work Expo is held every September where students can meet with admissions counselors from Masters of Social Work programs from across the region and beyond.  At this event, they can also can practice their job interviewing skills and meet with local social work employers.  Also in September is our annual Professional Development Day Conference which brings together all social work majors to discuss important issues facing social workers.  Students also can expect special workshops to be held during class time covering topics such as professional burn-out prevention, resume writing, and career preparation. 

Each year, a Community Action Poverty Simulation is held by the Department of Social Work which engages students in learning about the day to day challenges of those living in poverty.  In the spring, students will participate in the Bea Nemzer Social Work Symposium where a recognized social worker addresses students and community members about current social work topics.  Students in the social work major can join the social work club which provides service and leadership opportunities.  We also host a chapter of Phi Alpha, a national social work honor society.  Phi Alpha membership is selective, based on GPA and members also engage in community volunteerism.  You will find social work majors also participate in leadership and service in the larger university community through Greek life, student government, and student clubs.  Each May, our seniors are honored with a transition ceremony where professors and students gather to reflect over the successes of the past four years and celebrate the beginning of each student’s professional life.