Social Work, B.A.

Program Director: Patricia Salas, MSW

Overview

The social work major prepares students for positions in a variety of social work or service careers. The program integrates theory and practice, instills an understanding of the relationship between social work and Christian faith and encourages a commitment to social justice and a life of service. It does so in the context of a liberal arts education informed by a Christian/Anabaptist worldview. Upon completion of the major, students will be prepared to seek entry-level employment or pursue advanced study in the field, per requirements specific to their matriculating institution. Students complete a set of foundational and advanced courses in human development, social policy, social work methods, practice and research and a year-long internship.

Students declare their major program prior to starting their major coursework. Students who wish to change their program after matriculation must submit their final degree intention to their advisor and the program director no later than the first day of Semester 3, Session 2 so that internships may be arranged.

Accreditation Status

Fresno Pacific University is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education's Commission on Accreditation.

Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master's social work program by the Council on Social Work Education's Commission on Accreditation indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of program quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals and the Commission on Accreditation has verified that it demonstrates compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards.

Accreditation applies to all program sites and program delivery methods of an accredited program. Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission to the Fresno Pacific University Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (Degree Completion) program is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements, work experience, and personal statement, by the admission committee. Two years of post-secondary experience is required.

Application Process

To be considered for admission to the BA in Social Work program, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission. There is no application fee.
  • Fpu.edu/applydc
• Completed Social Work Application for Admission
• Official college/university transcript(s) from each college or university attended as well as verification of high school graduation.
  • Transfer students with an AA/AS degree are not required to submit high school transcripts.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:

Fresno Pacific University

Office of the Registrar

1717 S. Chestnut Ave

Fresno, CA 93702

• Statement of Purpose – Provide a written statement explaining your interest in the BSW program, long-term goals and any experience in the field.
•  International applicants must submit additional documentation including English Proficiency Scores (TOEFL=minimum of 550 PBT or 79 iBT, IELTS=6.5), copy of passport, visa information and a statement of financial support.

Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committees.

Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate ethical and professional behavior. 
2. Students will Advance Human Rights and Social, Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice. 
3. Engage Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in Practice. 
4. Students will Engage in Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice. 
5. Students will engage in policy practice. 
6. Students will engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. 
7. Students will assess individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. 
8. Students will intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. 
9. Students will evaluate individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. 
10. Students will ethically integrate faith in social work practice.

Credit-Bearing Grades

Students must earn a C- or higher to receive credit for their social work courses. Students may receive credit for any general education or elective course with a D -. A social work major who does not pass SW 220/221, SW400/401, SW 420/421, or SW461, with a C- or higher, cannot continue to the field/thesis courses and internship component.

Program Length/Semester Starts

Social Work is a scheduled, 24-month cohort program. 

Locations Offered

North Fresno, Visalia