Bachelor of Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is designed to prepare students for entry-level generalist social work practice. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of individuals, families, groups, and communities, with a strong focus on cultural diversity. Students engage in both classroom learning and field education, gaining practical experience through placements in over 500 local organizations. The program offers small class sizes, fostering close connections between students and faculty. Students can choose between on-campus and selected online courses, with synchronous class times for online sections. The curriculum is structured to develop core competencies in ethical behavior, diversity engagement, and policy practice, equipping graduates for various career paths in social work, including mental health, child welfare, and community development. The B.S.W. program also provides a pathway for graduates to pursue a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree through an advanced standing option.