Bachelor of Science - Social Work

St. Kate’s social work major prepares students for work in a wide range of settings. Recent graduates have been hired in diverse places such as hospitals, community centers, human services departments, public schools, domestic abuse shelters, nursing homes and mental health centers. Other graduates find work in private industry, nonprofits, state and local government, chemical dependency programs, programs for the elderly, and privately supported family and children’s agencies, just to name a few.

The curriculum is rooted in a philosophy that promotes social justice and community engagement while recognizing and honoring the differences inherent in our local, national, and global communities.  In this spirit, St. Kate's prepare generalist social workers to lead and influence through a commitment to professional ethics of service, social justice, and the importance of human relationship. Students will learn how to use their social work knowledge, values and skills competently, with integrity, for the dignity and worth of all people.  

Courses in the social work major will prepare students for generalist social work practice and for graduate study. 

Majors will expand their knowledge of social work beyond the boundaries of the classroom through a field education placement in a social service agency. St. Kate has developed strong agency partners and guide students through the process of interviewing and placement with these agencies. Field placements include opportunities such as case management, shelter advocacy, supervised visitation for families, community education and organizing, school social work, senior housing, research and grant writing, and county social work.

Field placements complement the academic work through integration of theory, research and practice. Social work majors also take courses in biology of women, introduction to sociology, general psychology and lifespan developmental psychology.  With this exceptional hands-on practice experience and meaningful course work, the vast majority of social work graduates secure positions in their field within six months of graduation.