Bachelor's in Social Work - Online BASW Degree Program | UMass Global BA in Social Work Earn real-world experience and prepare for a professional social work career in a variety of settings, including healthcare, community outreach, and nonprofit or government organizations. Request Info Make a Difference in Your Career Through a mix of online coursework and supervised in-person fieldwork, the UMass Global Bachelor of Arts in Social Work helps you build your knowledge of social, political, and cultural change and your skills in organizational dynamics and technological processes to help you best serve diverse communities. In-Person, Supervised Fieldwork : Hone your skills through 400 supervised on-site field practice hours. A Career Devoted to Helping Others : Learn to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities as a social worker. Work in Various Settings : Child and family social work, gerontology, mental healthcare, probation/correctional treatment, social and community service, or substance abuse treatment. At a Glance Online 120 Credits $500/Credit Help me estimate my cost Next Start Date Summer I (May 4, 2026) Program Benefits that Benefit You. A Better Balance for Work and School Affordable, asynchronous classes that fit your work schedule, offered 100% online so you can learn while you earn. Guidance and Support Our attentive, expert scholar practitioners guide you through 400 supervised on-site field hours in your areas of interest. Focus on Engagement and Assessment Learn how to intervene, evaluate and effectively communicate with a diverse set of individuals, families, groups and communities. Career Outlook for BA in Social Work Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Median Salary Job openings (in the last 12 months) Top Companies Hiring Data source: Lightcast™ 2026 www.lightcast.io The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032 Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program Courses You Might Take SOWK 302 Interview and Assessment Skills in Social Work 3 Credits Interview and Assessment Skills in Social Work SOWK 302 3 Credits Prerequisite or Corequisite SOWK 300. This course introduces students to basic interview and assessment skills utilized in social work. Students will practice interpersonal communication skills, assessment strategies, and explore the dynamics of the helping relationship. Students will examine social and cultural influences, theories, and diversity issues related to the interview and assessment process. Students will evaluate communication and assessment skills used in the interview and assessment process. SOWK 309 Introduction to Social Work Research 3 Credits Introduction to Social Work Research SOWK 309 3 Credits This course introduces students to basic research concepts and methods with particular emphasis on the application of research to social work issues. Students examine the process of conducting research and compare different research methodologies to understand social work issues. Social work values and ethics are explored as they apply to conducting research. Diversity and unique populations are considered in the decision of research topics, subjects, and methodologies. Research studies and findings are evaluated as they apply to practice situations. The issue of research-informed practice and practice-informed research is explored. SOWK 304 Social Welfare 3 Credits Social Welfare SOWK 304 3 Credits Prerequisite or Corequisite SOWK 300. This course examines social welfare issues from an historical perspective. Students are introduced to the origins of the welfare state, the development of the social welfare system, and the evolution of the social work profession. Social welfare issues, such as poverty, discrimination, employment, and criminal justice, are explored in terms of their social, ideological, political, and economic context. Particular emphasis is given to oppressed and vulnerable populations and the role of social workers as advocates in addressing social welfare issues. CJCU 416 Domestic Violence 3 Credits Domestic Violence CJCU 416 3 Credits This course provides an overview of the criminal laws and sanctions specifically applied to domestic violence. Students will address various types of court proceedings including family court, juvenile court, and civil trials. They will also consider incidence, research, and theories of domestic violence and their influence on criminal justice response and intervention. SOWK 445 Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Social Work 3 Credits Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Social Work SOWK 445 3 Credits This course introduces the major theories, issues, and treatment approaches related to drug and alcohol abuse. Students examine perspectives on the causes, effects, context, and unique treatment needs of different populations. An historical and multicultural perspective is introduced to examine the origins and social context of substance use and abuse. The role of social work and social workers in addressing drug and alcohol issues is explored as well as societal attitudes and policy approaches to this issue. A social work perspective is applied to understanding and responding to the issues of drug and alcohol use, abuse, and consequences for individuals, families, and societies. SOWK 391 Youth At Risk 3 Credits Youth At Risk SOWK 391 3 Credits This course will introduce students to various models, theories, and intervention of children and adolescents considered "at-risk". Topics covered include, but may not be limited to the following: a) socio-cultural factors in defining and influencing behavior; b) psychological models both biological and ecological that interact to shape behavior; c) types of at-risk categories including school dropouts, substance use and addiction, teenage pregnancy, antisocial behavior, delinquency, gangs, school shooters, and youth suicide; and d) specific types of clinical abnormal behavior including anxiety, mood, and impulse control disorders; e) theoretical and practical considerations related to community and school interventions. What is it like going to UMass Global? Instructor-Led, Session-Based This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support. Personalized Support Services UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point. Employer-Aligned Curriculum At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes. Instructor-Led, Session-Based This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support. Personalized Support Services UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point. Employer-Aligned Curriculum At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes. Next Session Starts 10 Days 18 Hours 18 Hours 35 Minutes 50 Seconds Already Started Our Faculty All Faculty Zoila Gordon, PhD Director of BASW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work Zoila Gordon PhD Jeannine Meza, DSW Director of DSW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work Jeannine Meza DSW Kimberly Toler, DSW MSW Field Director, Associate Professor of Social Work Kimberly Toler DSW Satara Charlson, PhD Professor of Social Work Satara Charlson PhD Anita González, LMSW Assistant Director of Field Education, Associate Professor of Social Work Anita González LMSW Justine Rangel, DNP Associate Professor of Social Work Justine Rangel DNP Admission Requirements Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include: 0 – 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS High school diploma or GED equivalent Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended Take LBSU 100 (Student Success Strategies) during their first session to build a solid foundation for college success. 12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended Active military? Admissibility and minimum transfer credit awarded will be determined based on the Community College of the Air Force, SMART, AARTS, or JST transcripts. Residency Restrictions This program is not available to residents of all states. Please contact a University Enrollment Coach for details. We support our Military Veterans! Yellow Ribbon School Recognized Military Friendly School Founded to Serve Military Personnel Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey. Learn How WASC Senior College and University Commission University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) UMass Global's Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Calculate Time and Cost Ready to pursue your bachelor's degree? Request Info Apply (800) 746-0082 Frequently Asked Questions In the United States and Canada, the requirements to become a licensed social worker vary by state, province, and territory. However, a common prerequisite is obtaining a degree in social work from an accredited institution. Typically, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, while a Master of Social Work (MSW) is often necessary for advanced clinical roles. A doctorate in social work is also available. According to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), licensure requirements can differ significantly depending on your location. You can find specific licensing requirements by state or province on their website: ASWB Licensing Requirements For further insight into the requirements and pathways to becoming a social worker, you can refer to the article: Social Worker Requirements: What You Will Need . This article may provide additional details and considerations for individuals pursuing a career in social work. Social worker licensure requirements vary by state. Typically, obtaining your licensure includes achieving a minimum level of education, reaching a required amount of supervised practice time, and completing an application. There are also optional and advanced licensures for specific social worker careers. You can learn more about requirements here It usually takes  four to six years. Aspiring social workers must earn their bachelor’s degree, and many continue on to earn a master’s degree as well. Social workers can help military clients address difficulties such as PTSD, depression or anxiety, unemployment, financial hardship, and more through individual or family counseling. Social workers support military personnel and their loved ones by developing community programs and initiatives that can improve their lives. Learn more about military social work Testimonials UMass Global gave me the strength to become an advocate for others and the skills to work toward changing unjust laws. Alyssa B. BA in Social Work The professors realized I have a life and wanted to pursue my dreams. They didn’t make me feel like I had to choose between family and school. They made me feel like I could be successful in both. Dominique H. Psychology, BA What I admired the most were the professors. They are very structured; they are very disciplined. Their communication was on point, and their leadership style. They never criticized me. They worked with me. Rojelio M. Organizational Leadership, BA From the moment I applied, my admissions counselor was such a huge support. Alison C. Human Resources, BBA As an adult learner UMass Global gave me the tools, flexibility, and support I needed. The faculty believed in me, the programs were designed to meet me where I was, and the encouragement I found here helped transform obstacles into steppingstones. Pearl Greta G. Bachelors of Social Work An Online Education Built For You Want More Information about Social Work? Dig deeper into this helping profession and explore its different career paths. Social Work Resources Featured Events All Events New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session Info Session New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session Thursday, April 30 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Online Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach Webinar Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach Wednesday, May 13 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Online Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career Info Session Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career Wednesday, May 13 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Online Featured Articles All Articles Behavioral Science A Complete Guide to Becoming a Social Worker in California Behavioral Science 10 Careers You Can Pursue With a Bachelor’s in Social Work Behavioral Science Leading Transformative Change in Social Work: Inside UMass Global’s New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) Behavioral Science Social Worker vs. Psychologist: Which Human Services Path Is Right for You? [Quiz] Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes All Council on Social Work Education programs measure and report student learning outcomes. Students are assessed on their mastery of the competencies that comprise the accreditation standards of the Council on Social Work Education. These competencies are dimensions of social work practice that all social workers are expected to master during their professional training. A measurement benchmark is set by the social work programs for each competency. An assessment score at or above that benchmark is considered by the program to represent mastery of that particular competency. This form is used to assist the COA in the evaluation of the program's compliance with the accreditation standards below: 5.0.1(d) The program posts its assessment plan and summary outcomes publicly on its webpage using Form AS The findings are updated every two years, at minimum. The program submits Form AS M5.0.1(d) to report its assessment plan and most recent assessment summary outcomes. The program provides a hyperlink to the program’s webpage where the assessment plan and summary outcomes are publicly displayed. The program provides outcomes for each program option and in aggregate.