Program Overview
The University at Albany's Bachelor of Science in Social Welfare prepares students for careers in social work, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to improve social conditions and enact social justice. The program combines theoretical coursework with real-world experience through field placements, and offers a generalist social work education with a focus on understanding diverse populations and working effectively with marginalized and oppressed groups.
Program Outline
University at Albany - Bachelor of Science in Social Welfare
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- Prepare students for careers in social work with the skills and knowledge needed to improve social conditions and enact social justice.
- Offer a generalist social work education with a focus on understanding individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities within a systems framework.
- Equip students to work effectively with diverse populations, including marginalized and oppressed groups.
Description:
- Program Length: Four years
- Curriculum: Combines theoretical coursework with real-world experience through field placements.
- Faculty: Experienced practitioners and researchers in the field of social work.
- Class Size: Small classes allow for personalized attention and interaction.
Outline:
Social Welfare Elementary Base (15-16 credits):
Introduces fundamental concepts in psychology, sociology, American politics, and social welfare in the U.S.
Social Welfare Advanced Base (15 credits):
Explores abnormal psychology, social psychology, perspectives on globalization, and statistics.
Core Requirements (32 credits):
Covers fundamental social work practice skills, human behavior and social environment, research methods, field instruction, policy analysis, organizational theory, and integrative seminars.
Core Course Descriptions:
Provides detailed descriptions of each core course, its content, and learning outcomes.
Social Welfare Electives:
Allows students to tailor their program with electives focusing on specific populations or issues.
Assessment:
Methods:
Assessment methods vary by course and may include exams, papers, presentations, case studies, and field placement evaluations.
Criteria:
Students are assessed on their knowledge, skills, and application of social work principles in practice settings.
Teaching:
Methods:
Employing diverse teaching methods including lectures, discussions, guest speakers, simulations, role-playing, and field supervision.
Faculty:
Composed of experienced social work professionals with strong academic credentials and practical experience.
Unique Approaches:
Emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and reflective practice to develop well-rounded professionals.
Careers:
Potential Paths:
Graduates pursue careers in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, hospitals, schools, and mental health or substance abuse agencies.
Career Outcomes:
The program provides the foundation for successful careers as social workers, counselors, advocates, policy analysts, and community organizers.
Other:
Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Option:
Allows students to earn both their BS in social welfare and their Master of Social Work in 5 years.
Social Welfare Studies Minor:
Complements other degrees with a foundational understanding of social welfare principles and practice.
