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Bachelor of Social Work

The BSW Program of Temple University´s School of Social Work (SSW) is rooted in the mission, educational program goal and conceptual framework of SSW. The primary goal of the BSW program is to prepare entry-level, generalist social work practitioners committed to social work practice that ensures human rights, including social, economic and cultural rights, for all.

Graduates will understand the effects of structural inequities based on race, class, gender, or sexual orientation, as well as other forms of oppression and discrimination that present barriers to individual and collective growth, well-being and the development of full potential. Graduates also are encouraged to practice social work using the strengths perspective and to establish partnerships with people committed to the enhancement of social and economic justice for the vulnerable and oppressed and to human rights.

The BSW Program

The BSW program offers students a broad perspective and a basic understanding of the social work values and ethics, diversity, social and economic justice, populations-at-risk, social work practice, human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work research and a generalist field practicum.

The BSW field practicum is structured to enable new practitioners to apply their beginning skills in clinical practice with individuals, families, and groups, as well as their basic skills in macro practice with organizations and communities.

Ten Objectives of the BSW Program

The ten objectives of the BSW program, listed below, flow from this BSW program goal. At the completion of the BSW program, students will demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Apply strategies of social change and advocacy that help advance social, political, and
    economic justice.
  2. Use critical inquiry and scientific research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, to evaluate and advance ones own social work practice and that of the profession.
  3. Understand and work to eliminate the forms and mechanisms of oppression and
    discrimination at all system levels.
  4. Practice with knowledge, skills, and respect with regard to age, class, color, culture,
    ethnicity, family structure, gender, language, marital status, national origin, physical and/or mental disabilities, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.
  5. Understand and adhere to the values, ethical standards and principles of the social work profession.
  6. Use knowledge of the social work profession´s history, concerns, and societal contributions to inform contemporary issues in practice.
  7. Practice with the skills and knowledge base of a culturally competent generalist social
    work practitioner at all system levels.
  8. Demonstrate professional use of self in their practice with effective communication skills, self-awareness, inclusion of supervision and consultation, and the creation of positive change within organizations and service delivery systems.
  9. Understand, analyze, influence, and formulate social policies.
  10. Critically apply theoretical frameworks, supported by empirical evidence, that offer insight into the development and behavior of individuals over the life span and the interactions among individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.