Social Work
Advocate for positive change, work for social justice and give voice to diverse communities by majoring in social work. Social workers help individuals, families, organizations and communities secure resources that empower dignity, self-determination and strength. At Alverno, earning your bachelor’s degree in social work prepares you for a meaningful career as a generalist social worker with the knowledge to enhance the well-being of others.
In the Classroom
Social work majors not only learn relevant academic knowledge but also real-world skills in the classroom. You’ll thrive in Alverno’s small classes with dedicated faculty
mentors and strong relationships with peers. You will develop the skills to make a lasting impact on those you serve.
Through Alverno’s 8 Abilities and Alverno’s social-justice-focused values, you will develop a strong ethical and moral code, and you’ll
practice the ability to adapt to your circumstances.
Beyond the Classroom
Two internship experiences will integrate what you have learned in the classroom into social work practice. Internship placements focus on positions serving populations in
need, including elderly, children and their families, persons with developmental and other disabilities, youth and adults struggling with substance abuse and individuals facing mental health
challenges.
Alverno’s Career Studio and our social work faculty can help you find the best internships to help you achieve your goals.
Social Work Quick Links
— Lisa, Social Work majorOne thing I love about Alverno is that it’s not about school, it’s about life. Even though you’re pursuing an academic degree, Alverno teaches in such a way that it’s about your pursuit of life and how these skills are going to help you in life. It’s very innovative.
Social Work + the Alverno Difference
We create women leaders who are ready to succeed and shatter ceilings. At Alverno, you’ll find an empowering, supportive environment that helps you achieve your best.
You will grow in confidence as a social change agent with the dynamic combination of a liberal arts education and real-world experience.
Instead of letter grades, we focus on your personal development and real-world skills — equipping you with the crucial communication, critical thinking and
problem-solving skills you need to thrive in social work. Our learning approach is centered around the 8 Abilities, which will set you apart from the crowd.
Social Work Licensure
Licensure is granted to graduates of accredited programs who apply and pass a national exam developed by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) and the state exam developed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). You can start the licensure process six months before your graduation date.
Substance Abuse Specialty
Alverno social work majors have the option to specialize in substance abuse counseling. The substance abuse counseling specialty is also available as a minor for non-social work majors and as a professional certificate for Alverno alumnae.
Additional Resources
