Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree

Q: Is a social work degree hard?

Social work degree programs are designed to be demanding to help prepare you for the mental and emotional rigors of a career in this field. If you hope to become a social worker who has an impact on the diverse lives of those you serve, earning a degree in social work can help you position yourself to potentially reach your career goals.

Q: Do you need a social work degree to be a social worker?

To be a social worker, you typically need to hold a degree in social work from an accredited college or university program.4 The undergraduate degree is the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). With this degree, you have the opportunity to position yourself for entry-level jobs in areas such as child and family services, mental health, substance use, healthcare and correctional treatment.4 Graduate degrees include the Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or PhD in Social Work. To become a licensed clinical social worker, or to position yourself for a potential program management or leadership position in social work, you will need to earn a Master of Social Work.4

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Psychology

Program

Bachelor of Social Work

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Preparing You To Empower and Support Communities

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Grand Canyon University can equip you with the skills to enhance the well-being of individuals, families and communities. You will be taught to work effectively with diverse groups in various settings. Developed by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the program offers a range of courses aimed at deepening your understanding of human behavior.

Offered By

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $485 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 8 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Build Cultural Competency and Advocacy Skills

In this Bachelor of Social Work program, you can explore how individuals respond to various factors, which significantly influences a social worker’s practice approach. Throughout the program, you can develop skills in cultural competency and advocacy while gaining deeper self-awareness through the lens of a Christian worldview.

Flexible Learning Formats to Fit Your Lifestyle

This bachelor’s program is offered online^{(See disclaimer 1)} and on campus so you can choose the best learning environment for you and your schedule. Whether you select the on-campus program or the Bachelor of Social Work online,^{(See disclaimer 1)} you will complete in-person, supervised field experiences in a professional setting.

Earn a BSW Online Degree

Take BSW Courses on Campus

Coursework

In the BSW online degree^{(See disclaimer 1)} and on-campus courses, you will be taught how to analyze human behavior within the social environment. Using an integrative and multidimensional perspective, you will analyze biophysical development from conception through late adulthood. The classes provide opportunities to learn, practice and reflect on essential skills throughout the entire intake, assessment, treatment, evaluation and termination process.

This undergraduate social work program can equip you with essential competencies in the field, including:

Ethical professional behavior in relation to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) code of ethics
Scientific inquiry and the research process in social work
Trauma-informed care
Complexities of leadership and management in social work
The social work helping process
Case management

Develop and Demonstrate Key Skills

As a student in this program, you will leverage insights from your academic and field experiences to develop a capstone project and presentation that demonstrate your knowledge.

The Bachelor of Social Work capstone project provides students an opportunity to showcase their skills in the following areas:

Assessment

Application of theory

Practice skills

Ethics

Cultural sensitivity

Advocacy and policy analysis

Careers

Career Paths for BSW Degree Holders

Social workers can expect faster than expected job growth over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an estimated 44,700 new jobs are expected to open for social workers from 2024 to 2034.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}

This program can prepare graduates to become social workers. You may also choose to further your education and obtain your Master of Social Work.

Graduates may go on to work in:

Hospitals

Outpatient facilities

Integrated healthcare facilities

Private practices

Residential facilities

Schools

Child welfare agencies

Community service agencies

Policy or program development

Estimated growth for social workers expected from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 2)}

$61,330

Median annual wage for social workers in May 2024^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Accreditation

CSWE Accreditation

This BSW program adheres to the social work standards and competencies established by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). GCU’s Bachelor of Social Work program is fully accredited by the CSWE. The BSW program was fully accredited in February 2024 and will be up for reaccreditation in February 2032. This accreditation status allows for all BSW students who successfully complete their BSW at GCU to apply for licensure at the BSW level and to apply to an MSW graduate program with Advanced Standing.

Programmatic Accreditation

Council on Social Work Education

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are interested in pursuing a BSW degree, we invite you to learn more by reading through our answers to these commonly asked questions.

Is a social work degree hard?

Is a BSW a good degree?

A bachelor’s degree in social work can be valuable for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families and contribute to their communities. This degree can equip students with essential knowledge, practical skills and an ethical foundation for a career in social work or for pursuing further studies. A BSW can lead to careers in healthcare, education, child welfare and mental health services.

Do you need a social work degree to be a social worker?

To be a social worker, you typically need to hold a degree in social work from an accredited college or university program.4 The undergraduate degree is the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). With this degree, you have the opportunity to position yourself for entry-level jobs in areas such as child and family services, mental health, substance use, healthcare and correctional treatment.4 Graduate degrees include the Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or PhD in Social Work. To become a licensed clinical social worker, or to position yourself for a potential program management or leadership position in social work, you will need to earn a Master of Social Work.4

Is a bachelor’s degree in social work worth it?

Pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work can be a worthwhile investment for those passionate about positively impacting communities. This degree offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, particularly through field placements. These field settings can include mental health clinics, child and family service agencies and policy organizations.5 These hands-on opportunities allow students to apply their skills under supervision, which can prepare them for the workforce or further graduate studies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, social workers had a median annual wage of $61,330.3

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major72 credits

Open Elective Credits8-14 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

SWK-170

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides the foundation for students to explain the profession of social work within the social context of the United States. The course explores how society influenced the development of social work as a profession in the United States. Students examine cultural values, social work values, history of social work, and selected theoretical models of social work to demonstrate how these factors influenced the adoption of the general practice framework. In a broad overview, students examine the process to help individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities evaluate and solve problems, using the micro, mezzo, and macro system levels to assess the problem and make recommendations for interventions.

SWK-280

4 Total Credits

SWK-290

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides the foundation for students to learn and examine the impact of human biology on social work practice. The course explores how the human body’s response to differing variables plays a major role in a social worker’s approach and ideology to practice. Students examine mental health, varying human biological determinants, faith, and environmental factors that influence both the individual and the practitioner. Understanding how these biological factors influence mental and physical health is vital to a social worker’s role in assisting others as they navigate from birth to adulthood and inevitably work through the end-of-life stages. This course looks at the impact of human biology from a micro, mezzo, and macro system level. Prerequisite: SWK-280.

SWK-330

4 Total Credits

SWK-355

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course explores the history and progression of the social welfare system, services, and policies and their effects on the social work profession. Emphasis is placed on an analysis of how these systems impact vulnerable populations, specifically relating to poverty, age, race, sex, and mental health. Students learn to identify strengths and weaknesses of social welfare policies while considering diversity and social justice. Prerequisites: SWK-290, SWK-330, and SWK-350.

SWK-350

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course explores the history, evolution, and application of values and ethics in social work, reviewing theoretical approaches and decision-making models. Students explore components of professional values, personal values, and self-awareness in their application and demonstration of ethical professional behavior as it relates to the NASW Code of Ethics. Students examine the legal or jurisdictional requirements of licensing boards and the intersectionality with professional ethical behavior. Students develop a method for decision making for ethical dilemmas that occur in social work practice at all levels of practice, including micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Prerequisite: SWK-280.

SWK-465

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to case management skills. Students identify the various roles and functions of a case manager. A primary focus of this course is the case management process, including how to track and manage a client case load. Through case study analysis, students determine appropriate client assessment techniques and problem-solving strategies. Students explore case manager roles and case management styles in a variety of client populations and nonprofit human service agencies. Students learn to differentiate roles, functions, and styles based on their assessment of the client’s needs and a clear understanding of the agency’s mission, policies, and programs. Prerequisites: SWK-370, SWK-420, and SWK-450.

SWK-360

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines human behavior in the social environment by critically analyzing biopsychosocial development. Using an integrative, multidimensional perspective, students examine multiple theories of human behavior. The course emphasizes a social work perspective and key frameworks for social work with an emphasis on person-in-environment and systems theory as they describe diverse human behavior. Prerequisites: SWK-290, SWK-330, and SWK-350.

SWK-420

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introductory knowledge of trauma-informed care from foundational principles and historical context to practice implementation. The context of trauma is discussed including types of trauma and adverse outcomes related to various systems. It offers an overview of trauma-informed screening, assessment, and treatment. Information is provided on the risk of vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue for providers. Prerequisites: SWK-355, SWK-360, and SWK-430.

SWK-455

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamental skills of social work direct practice for individuals and family systems within the general practice framework. Students demonstrate a mastery of the social work “helping process.” Students learn, practice, and reflect on their interaction skills within the intake, assessment, treatment, evaluation, and termination process with individuals and families. Students develop skills that are culturally responsive and ethical. Special attention is given to human diversity and populations at risk. Prerequisites: SWK-370, SWK-420, and SWK-450. Co-Requisite: SWK-470.

SWK-370

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines human behavior in the social environment by critically analyzing biopsychosocial development from conception through late adulthood and death. This includes a focus on groups, communities, and organizations and their effect on human behavior. The course emphasizes a social work perspective and key frameworks for social work with an emphasis on person-in-environment and systems theory as they describe diverse human behavior. Prerequisites: SWK-290, SWK-330, and SWK-350.

SWK-450

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explores the complexities of leadership and management in the profession of social work, reviewing theoretical approaches and practices. Students examine various components of leadership including leadership styles, self-awareness, motivational methods, financial management, accountability in management, and vulnerability. Students learn to consider the power differential, courage, exploration of the self, life experience, and the impact of these components on the supervisory relationship. Prerequisites: SWK-355, SWK-360, and SWK-430.

SWK-425

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to enhance students' understanding and skills in group facilitation and dynamics. This course explores the theoretical frameworks and practical techniques essential for effective social work with diverse groups. Students engage in experiential learning to develop skills in group assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Emphasis is placed on ethical practice, cultural competence, and the role of the social worker in fostering group cohesion and empowerment. Prerequisite: SWK-455.

SWK-430

4 Total Credits

SWK-470

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course exposes students to the foundations of social work practice in approved community agencies with professional supervision. The course consists of both online classroom course work and field experience hours. The course provides experiential integration and application of concepts, cognitive and affective processes, and professional social work skills. Practicum/field experience hours: 200. Prerequisites: SWK-370, SWK-420, and SWK-450. Co-Requisite: SWK-455.

SWK-461

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamental skills of social work direct practice for communities and organizations within the general practice framework. Students demonstrate a mastery of the social work “helping process.” Students learn, practice, and reflect on their interaction skills within the intake, assessment, treatment, evaluation, and termination processes with communities and organizations. Students develop skills that are culturally responsive and ethical. Special attention is given to human diversity and populations at risk. Prerequisites: SWK-455, SWK-465, and SWK-470. Co-Requisite: SWK-480.

SWK-480

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides a continuation of foundations of social work practice in approved community agencies with professional supervision. Experiential integration and application of concepts, cognitive and affective processes, and professional social work skills from concurrent social work courses are practiced. Practicum/field experience hours: 200. Prerequisites: SWK-455, SWK-465, and SWK-470. Co-Requisite: SWK-460.

SWK-490

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This capstone course in the Bachelor of Social Work program allows students the opportunity to integrate and apply previous learning through the creation of a social work practice research study. The students take insights from their academic and field experiences to create a final research proposal and presentation, highlighting their knowledge of social work theory, practice, and research, while also applying social work ethical standards and principles. Prerequisites: SWK-455, SWK-465, and SWK-470.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Make a Difference in Your Community With a BSW Degree

If you are passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, consider a career in social work. Explore the on-campus and online^{(See disclaimer 1)} Bachelor of Social Work degree program at GCU today!

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Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social Workers, retrieved Sept. 4, 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Social Workers as of May 2024, retrieved Aug. 18, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as social workers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How To Become a Social Worker. Retrieved Sept. 26, 2023.
National Association of Social Workers. (n.d.). Types of Social Work Degrees. Retrieved July 2022.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree

Preparing You To Empower and Support Communities

Build Cultural Competency and Advocacy Skills

Flexible Learning Formats to Fit Your Lifestyle

Bachelor of Social Work Coursework

Develop and Demonstrate Key Skills

Career Paths for BSW Degree Holders

CSWE Accreditation

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Core Courses