• Radford University
• Bachelor's

About the Program

The Bachelor of Social Work program prepares generalist social work professionals who are capable of skillful assessment and interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro-levels.

Our graduates are eligible to apply for advanced standing in graduate social work programs, including the Master of Social Work program.  Over 95% of students graduating with a baccalaureate degree from the Waldron College of Health and Human Services have found employment or gone on to graduate school within three months of graduation. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

BSW course work focuses on developing knowledge and skills related to nine practice areas:  Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Welfare Policies and Services, Research, Social Work Practice, Field Instruction, Social Work Values and Issues, Social and Economic Justice, Populations-at-Risk, and Diversity.  The BSW degree is accepted as the entry-level educational credential for beginning social work practice.

Transfer Credit and Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree at Radford University requires a minimum of 120 credits to graduate.  Students transferring into the program with an Associate’s degree in Human Services from Virginia Western Community College (VWCC) may transfer approximately 66 credits toward the degree.  Students holding an Associate’s degree in another content area may also be eligible to transfer into the RU BSW program.  Additional coursework may be required to reach the 120 credit minimum for graduation.  These additional classes may be completed at the Radford University main campus, through Radford University online, or at the VWCC campus.

Career Paths

Graduates with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) are prepared for entry-level generalist practice in a wide variety of settings. Possible career paths include:

• Child Welfare & Family Services – working with child protective services, foster care, or adoption agencies.
• Healthcare & Medical Social Work – supporting patients and families in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities.
• Mental Health & Substance Use Services – providing case management, advocacy, and support in community mental health centers, residential programs, or recovery services.
• Schools & Educational Settings – working as support staff within schools to assist students and families.
• Community & Nonprofit Organizations – engaging in advocacy, outreach, and program delivery for underserved populations.
• Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities – supporting individuals and families through service coordination, advocacy, and residential or day-support programs.
• Criminal Justice & Corrections – providing re-entry support, probation services, and rehabilitation assistance.
• Policy & Advocacy Organizations – contributing to program development, community organizing, and social justice initiatives.

Next Steps After the BSW

Many graduates continue their education to expand their opportunities and increase earning potential:

• Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW) – BSW graduates are often eligible for “advanced standing,” which allows them to complete an MSW in as little as one year.
• Specialization & Licensure – An MSW opens doors to clinical practice (e.g., therapy, counseling) and leadership positions.
• Doctoral Programs (DSW or PhD) – for those interested in teaching, research, or high-level policy development.

Student Support

We know the path to higher education can be daunting, which is why we’re here to help.

How to Apply

It is strongly recommended that prospective students arrange for pre-admission consultation to determine your readiness to matriculate at junior level. These consultations are available over Zoom or face-to-face by contacting Dr. Elizabeth Arthur.

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