COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program at San José State University is a 120-unit degree designed to prepare students for entry-level generalist social work practice. The program combines general education, foundational statistics, core social work coursework, extensive field practicum experience, and university electives to build professional competence in working with individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students begin with a required preparation course in statistics, which supports their understanding of research and data analysis in social work practice. The major core includes a structured sequence of courses covering generalist social work practice, human behavior in the social environment, social welfare institutions and policies, research methods, and a senior seminar that integrates learning across the program. A key component of the curriculum is field education, which includes supervised practicum courses that allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world social service settings. These field experiences are essential for developing professional skills, ethical judgment, and practical experience in direct service and community-based work. Through these experiences, students learn to assess client needs, apply intervention strategies, and work effectively within diverse populations and organizational systems. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to social work that integrates theory, practice, and professional values, preparing students to address complex social issues and promote social justice. University electives provide additional flexibility for students to explore related interests or deepen their academic preparation. Overall, the BASW program prepares graduates for careers in social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, and government settings, while also providing a strong foundation for advanced graduate study in social work (MSW programs) and further professional licensure.