Social Work

A major in Social Work is offered by the Social Work Program within the College of Professional Studies and Social Sciences. A student is prepared for beginning professional practice by a curriculum that integrates theory, through classroom instruction, with practical experience in a Social Welfare Agency. A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is awarded to students who successfully complete all requirements. The Social Work Program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Students wishing to continue their education may be eligible for advanced standing in many graduate schools of Social Work throughout the United States.

A total of 120 credits are required for a BSW Degree at Misericordia University. Of those, 48 credits comprise the Liberal Arts core curriculum; completion of the Social Work Core requires 78 credits. Certain courses – such as Comparative Sociology and Introduction to Psychology – fulfill both liberal arts core and social work core requirements. This allows the social work major a greater selection of elective courses and/or the opportunity to select a minor/certificate program. Student must receive a grade of C or better in all social work (SWK) courses and maintain a 2.50 G.P.A. in both liberal arts core and social work core coursework.
 

Mission Statement

The Mission of Misericordia University’s Social Work Program is to prepare students for entry-level generalist social work practice with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. Inherent within this mission is a commitment to the development of BSW graduates who are dedicated to improving social, economic and environmental conditions among diverse populations and to promoting the Sisters of Mercy values of mercy, service, justice and hospitality.
 

Program Goals

The primary goals of the Social Work Program at Misericordia University are:

1. To educate and prmote the development of problem-oriented, undergraduate generalist social work practitioners whose knowldege and skills base enables them access and address problematic situations among diverse individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations.
2. To foster students' ability to integrate the institutional and professional ideals of social justice and intervene on behalf of those discriminated against and oppressed,
3. To enhance students critical thinking and problem solving skills for contextual understanding and intervention with all social systems.
4. To prepare students for graduate studies and foster commitment to a process of continued professional growth.