The social work major at Coppin State University prepares undergraduate students for entry into the beginning level of social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Students learn to use professional knowledge, values and skills to implement planned change strategies designed to address the needs and problems of diverse populations in the society. Students who complete the requirements for a major in social work earn a BSW degree.
The social work curriculum builds on and is integrated with a liberal arts foundation. The basic course of study in the social work major requires the completion of 50 credits in required social work courses. Requirements for the social work major include courses in social welfare policy, human behavior and the social environment, social work practice methods, social work research, and a supervised two semester field work practice experience in a community based agency or institution. Social work majors are also required to complete 18 to 21 credits in a selected secondary sequence of courses constituting either a minor or an approved cluster of elective courses. Students entering the social work major must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better. It is recommended that students take all general education requirements (GER) prior to taking courses in the major. Transfer credits accepted as substitutes for foundation courses in the social work major must have been earned in another BSW program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and approved by the Social Work Department. Social work faculty provides regular academic advisement to social work majors and minors.
The Coppin Social Work Program meets the highest professional standards for undergraduate social work education. It is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education assuring students that all aspects of the program meet national standards and offers preparation for state licensing and direct practice at the BSW level. Social work majors at Coppin are eligible for membership in the Phi Alpha National Social Work Honor Society and the National Association of Social Work.