Â鶹ÊÓƵ

Bachelor's Degree in Social Work

Department of Sociology, Social Work and Criminal Justice

Degree: Bachelor of Social Work
Major: Social Work
Hours: 120

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Delivery Options:

Degree Description

The Â鶹ÊÓƵ Bachelor of Social Work Degree, an action-oriented degree and profession, helps individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities identify and develop strengths and resources to address personal and societal problems.

Social work focuses on the "person-in-the-environment," a unique perspective that allows you, the social worker, to not only address the negative effects of social problems on individuals, but to also work to change those social conditions and systems that contribute to human suffering. As a social worker, you make a fundamental difference in society by creating positive change in the people, groups, and institutions that you serve.

Why Study Social Work at Lamar?

The Council on Social Work Education-accredited Bachelor of Social Work Degree at Â鶹ÊÓƵ prepares you for an entry-level career in general social work or to continue on to graduate study in social work or other disciplines including communications, education, government or health care. Upon graduation, you may apply for licensure as a licensed social worker.

Watch the faculty interview to learn more about Â鶹ÊÓƵ's BSW degree program.

Career Paths

There are vast numbers of jobs available for bachelor's level practitioners, but the types of jobs, the way they are advertised and the competition for them are very different at the BSW level than at the MSW level. The field of social work spans across multiple career options, depending on the type of social work degree you pursue and your personal career goals and interests. Many people choose a social work career based on the types of people they want to help as well as the work environment they prefer. 

Primary Careers

Mental health assistant, case manager, residential counselor, program coordinator

Career Areas

  • Child and adult protective services
  • Mental and social health services
  • Professional/corporate wellness
  • School and career counseling
  • Private counseling
  • Community health and awareness

Median Salary

$59,540

Types of Employers

  • Hospitals, medical clinics and nursing homes
  • Community mental health agencies
  • Substance misuse clinics
  • State and local government agencies
  • Schools and other youth-serving organizations
  • Military bases and veterans affairs clinics
  • Correctional facilities
  • Private practitioners