Click here to download the Social Work Curriculum Map.

A minor in social welfare will provide students with the knowledge and values of social justice and practice that will equip them to function well in their chosen profession. In doing so, students acquire the knowledge needed to understand, address, and actively participate in the betterment of critical social problems in American Society. The courses offered in the minor will acquaint students in majors and pre-professional programs that interface with social work (e.g., sociology, psychology, anthropology, health science, education, criminal justice, counseling, business, pre-law, sports, recreation) with the evolution of the social welfare structure in the United States (SWK 242), the policies that result in social welfare programs (SWK 342) and populations at particular risk (SWK 307 and SWK 348/349).

Required courses (18 credits)

• SWK 242 Introduction to Social Welfare as a Social Institution (3)
• SWK 307 Issues of Diversity and Oppression (3)
• SWK 348 or 349 Human Behavior and Social Environment I or II (3)
• SWK 342 Social Welfare Policy (3)
• Six additional credits (300-400 level) in social work elective courses (6)

Excluded are those courses which are restricted to social work majors, and include: SWK 401 Research Methods; SWK Practice and Field I.

Consistent with the mission of Anna Maria College and EPAS (2015) requirements for the Council on Social Work Education, the Social Work Program’s mission is to prepare baccalaureate-level students for professional generalist practice and lifelong professional and personal learning. Stemming from the vision of the Sisters of Saint Anne and professional social work tradition, the Program seeks to develop graduates who are skilled advocates and agents of social change who, through ethical practice, look to strengthen the opportunities, resources, and capacities of individuals and society.

AMC Social Work Program Goals and Outcomes

Within the liberal arts tradition and following the Missions of Anna Maria College and the Bachelor of Social Work Program, the Program aims to:

• Contribute to the fulfillment of the goals of Anna Maria College, including the provision of a liberal arts foundation, spiritual development, sense of community, and a holistic education
• Prepare students for employment in entry level generalist social work practice and graduate level education
• Prepare students for informed community participation through responsible citizenship, advocacy for social justice, an ability to influence social policy, and compassion for the oppressed in society
• Provide a foundation for students’ professional futures, emphasizing continuous self-study, learning, and flexibility
• Provide students with instruction, practical experiences, and opportunities to develop the knowledge, values and skills and master the core competencies needed for effective, evidence-based, ethical social work practice

Social Work Learning Outcomes 2023
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2022
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2021
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2020
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2019
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2018
Social Work Learning Outcomes 2017

Social Work majors are eligible to take the Licensed Social Work examination (LSW) in Massachusetts immediately after graduation with their BSW degree.

Upon completion of a graduate program in social work (MSW) students become eligible to take their Licensure Certified Social Work examination (LCSW) in Massachusetts.

And, upon completion of two years of practice under a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) they become eligible to take their LICSW examination in the state of Massachusetts. Some states have a different tier of licensing than Massachusetts however students are free to move to another state after completion of their degree in social work.

What Are the Benefits of Advanced Standing?

When you graduate with a BSW degree it gives you the added benefit of being eligible for Advanced Standing within an MSW program. Advanced standing saves you time and money and puts you closer to your goal of becoming a master’s level social worker and beginning your career in this rewarding profession.  The Advanced Standing one-year option is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which is important when it comes time for licensure.

Who Qualifies for Advanced Standing?

BSW recipients generally qualify for advanced standing in an MSW program if they meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in social work from a program accredited by CSWE that has been earned within the university’s given timeframe (typically 5-7 years).
• Meet your university’s minimum undergraduate GPA requirements – this varies by college but is generally a 3.0 or higher. At Anna Maria College it is
• Positive evaluations from your undergraduate field experience – specifics vary by college.

Some colleges require that you participate in a personal interview.

Accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1974. Most recent accreditation June 2019.

Consistent with the Council on Social Work Education’s Educational Policies and Accreditation Standards, the Baccalaureate Social Work Program does not grant course credit or exemptions for previous life or employment experience. See Social Work Licensure