Social Work

Why Choose Social Work As A Major

Why social work?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014), employment for social workers is projected to increase by 19% over the next 10 years. This fast growing field affords a flexible work environment in a variety of settings. Social workers are employed in community agencies, government offices, schools, nursing homes, military settings, youth service agencies, legislative offices, social welfare agencies, child protective services and more. Social workers become community organizers, politicians, case managers, child protection workers, and social service agents. With a masters degrees, social workers can become therapists, crisis interventionists, substance abuse counselors, human service managers, researchers, and so much more.

Why social work at WCSU?

In 2015 the Social Work Program at WCSU was ranked 1st in Connecticut and 7th in the nation for ROI- Return on Investment! At WSCU, students receive a generalist social work education from an accredited BSW program. Our program provides students with the hands-on skills that are needed to become a social work professional. Our social work students participate in two social work internships, one in junior year and one in senior year. Our internship program provides a supportive learning environment with a field instructor and faculty liaison to provide encouragement and guidance. Field experiences provide invaluable learning opportunities and experience to add to the resume of the new graduate.

What are the advantages of choosing social work as a major?

Graduates of our social work program can apply for an advanced standing track in MSW programs throughout the country. Certain of these advanced standing programs can be completed in one year. Western’s generalist approach to social work education exposes students to a diverse field of social work practice. Our faculty is made up of experienced practitioners, from a diverse range of practice, each bringing real-world social work experiences into the classroom.

Things to do as a Social Work Major

Join the Social Work Club.

This student-led group brings together social work students to contribute to the campus community and beyond and to learn more about the field of social work. In past years, the club has held fundraisers for a homeless breakfast program, helped the Student Veteran Organization install Veteran’s Day Flags, provided a fundraising basket for a local school, walked as a team in the campus Relay for Life, attended NASW conferences, and toured
graduate schools in New York City.

Attend a Professional Development Day

This annual event brings all the social work majors together for a conference about the profession of social work. Students learn about the broad field of social work practice from community professionals.

Participate in the Beatrice Nemzer Annual Symposium

Every spring, an outstanding social worker comes to campus to inspire the next generation of young social workers to become agents of change in their community.