An online bachelor’s degree in social work may equip individuals with the skills and training needed to advocate on the behalf of those who cannot. In this four-year program, students may learn how to identify those who need help, assess their needs, and develop an action-plan to improve their well-being. Program coursework may require general education courses alongside major-specific classes including, human behavior, social issues in diversity, and social welfare policy.

Upon completion of the program, graduates may either seek entry-level employment or enroll in a graduate degree program. Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek employment in schools, healthcare facilities, government programs, rehabilitation centers, and correctional facilities.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 25% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

Curriculum for baccalaureate-level social work degree programs may include general education requirements as well as core coursework. These classes may teach students how to manage crisis domestic situations, serve as an advocate for those who aren’t able to do so, and develop plans for an individual’s well-being. Core online social work courses may include the following:

• Introduction to Social Work
• Human Behavior in the Social Environment
• Social Issues in Diversity
• Social Welfare Policy
• Research Methods in Social Work
• Social Work and Aging
• Ethical Considerations in Social Work

Career Options

Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek career opportunities in schools, healthcare services, child and family services, law enforcement, and government agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social work employment is projected to increase by 25% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Child and Family Social Worker
• School Social Worker
• Healthcare Social Worker
• Gerontological Social Worker
• Palliative Care Social Worker

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete a baccalaureate degree may have the opportunity to further their education by pursuing a graduate degree. A graduate degree in social work may offer individuals the opportunity to advance their skills and become eligible for licensure. Employers may require individuals to hold a bachelor’s degree at minimum to qualify for entry-level positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook