COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) requires the completion of 70 to 71 units within the major as part of the 120 total units needed for graduation. The program is carefully structured to provide students with both foundational knowledge and advanced professional training in social work practice.The lower-division requirements, totaling 22 to 23 units, introduce students to essential concepts in social sciences and research. Courses include statistics, psychology, sociology, biology, and an introduction to social work. These subjects help students understand human behavior, social systems, and basic analytical skills necessary for evidence-based practice. This stage builds a strong academic foundation and prepares students for more specialized coursework.At the upper-division level, students complete 48 units focused on core areas of social work. These include social welfare policy, human behavior and the social environment, research methods, and social work practice. Students also study topics such as public administration and abnormal psychology to better understand organizational systems and mental health issues. A significant component of the program is the practicum experience, where students complete supervised fieldwork, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world agency settings and gain hands-on professional experience.In addition to core courses, students choose elective topics such as social work with diverse populations, substance abuse, child welfare, and global perspectives. They also complete additional upper-division electives to broaden their academic experience.Overall, the BASW program combines theory, research, and practical training to prepare students for entry-level professional roles in social service agencies. It also provides a strong foundation for advanced study, such as pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW), and supports careers dedicated to improving individual and community well-being.