Our Academic Mission
Through teaching, research, and service, the mission of the West Virginia University School of Social Work is to educate students to become generalist social workers at the baccalaureate level and advanced integrated practice social workers at the graduate level.
Read our full Mission Statement.Living Our Values
As the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics says, we are called to challenge racism and social injustice and to value the worth and dignity of all people.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
If you are a compassionate individual with an interest in human diversity and a desire to help others, then a bachelor of social work can help you reach your goals. Our curriculum prepares students for positions in the social work profession and can provide you with the opportunity to advance in higher education.
The gerontology minor, available to individuals in any major, prepares students with special knowledge for working with older adults. All courses available online.
BSW Gerontology Minor
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
The Master of Social Work program trains graduate students in advanced integrated social work practice with individuals, families, groups, communities, and social administration. The PhD program prepares students with the skills needed to excel in research, teaching, and leadership.
Field Education
Field Education is an integral part of the professional social work curriculum and requires a close cooperative relationship between the School of Social Work and the selected field sites who accept our students for the internship experience. Field education has been designated by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) as the “signature pedagogy” and as equal to the course work in social work higher education. Experiential learning complements the classroom learning and gives the student the opportunity to build a sense of professional competence and identity that serves as a foundation for ongoing professional growth.
