Bachelor of Social Work | St. Ambrose University
Source: http://www.sau.edu/academic-programs/bachelors/social-sciences/bsw
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:28
Bachelor of Social Work | St. Ambrose University
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Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Classes start 05/18/2026
Apply now
Request information
What is a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree?
Our BSW program equips you to effect positive change in society through advocacy and empowerment. Graduate ready to make a meaningful impact on people and communities by working directly with clients or shaping systemic change through policy and advocacy.
Complete our request form
to receive details about our program. If you have further questions, contact
Jennifer Green
.
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
120 credits
39 gen ed credits
32 core credits
49 elective credits
Max transfer credits 90
Personal practicum placement process
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Why earn a BSW at SAU?
A BSW degree can lead graduates to work for social justice as a professional. Students are provided the knowledge, skills and values to pursue ethical social work while helping some of the most vulnerable people in society.
Expansive career options
The BSW offers a myriad of career options so graduates can pursue the area that interests them.
Focus on empowerment
Learn to identify strengths and resources to develop skills and create sustainable change for people and communities.
Earn a dual degree
Earn a dual degree by pairing your BSW with a BA in Psychology, Sociology, Justice, Diversity or Gender Studies
Personal practicum placement process
Work one-on-one with the Director of Practicum Education to secure a practicum that meets your interests and professional goals.
Fast-track your MSW
Eligible students can apply for advanced standing to earn their MSW in one year rather than two, saving time and money.
Strong foundation in social justice
The BSW is rooted in social justice. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills needed to make a difference.
Explore Bachelor of Social Work courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 39 gen ed credits,
32 major core credits, and
49 elective credits.
Explore social work courses
View all courses
Sample Courses
Class code
Class title
Credits
SWK 360 d1
Diversity
3 credits
SWK 330
Interpersonal Skills with Individuals
3 credits
SWK 333
Empowering Processes with Families and Group
3 credits
SWK 336
Transformative Practice with Organizations and Communities
3 credits
SWK 400/401
BSW Practicum Instruction I & II
6 credits
How much does a Bachelor of Social Work degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee.
You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses.
Explore the cost of attendance
.
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By semester
By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$19,674
$39,348
Housing**
$4,313
$8,625
Food***
$3,135
$6,270
Technology fee
$150
$300
Total direct charges (billable)
$27,272
$54,543
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Explore campus housing
Bachelor of Social Work program accreditation
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
represents social work education in the U.S. Its Board of Accreditation is the only accrediting agency for social work education in the U.S. and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Read more about our accreditation
How does SAU support students in the BSW program?
Faculty serve as sponsors for the Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society and Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. They mentor students in the honors program and actively support students who enjoy additional interests on campus.
Social work faculty
Chris E. Martin, MSW, LMSW, PhD
Jennifer Boedeker, MSW, LMSW
Jennifer Green
Kayla Behrens, MSW, LCSW/LISW
Kristi Lohmeier, MSSW, PhD
Kyle Bennett, Ph.D., MSW
Other support resources for BSW students
Student Success Center
Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Explore academic support services
Accessibility Resource Center
Need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements or disability support strategies? The Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.
Discover career support
Are cost savings available for the BSW program?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans.
Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage
.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement.
Explore SAU scholarships
.
Transfer previous credits into SAU
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money.
Learn how to transfer credits
.
Enroll in MSW Advanced Standing Program
Enroll in SAU's
MSW Advanced Standing
program and earn an MSW in one year rather than two. This saves time and money.
Campus resources for BSW students
BSW students may earn Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society membership and participate in Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. These organizations provide opportunities to create connections and develop leadership skills.
St. Ambrose is dedicated to your success
“The faculty at St. Ambrose are interested in your success above all else. They support their students in any way they can while still expecting the hard work and drive that comes with being Ambrosian. Whether it's faculty, staff, or a student led group, support is easy to come by when you ask for it.”
-Sarah Bisland ‘23, Bachelor of Social Work and Psychology
Visit Campus
How to apply for a Bachelor of Social Work at SAU
Apply to St. Ambrose
Students interested in the BSW program should first apply to St. Ambrose University. Here are the admissions requirements for first-year or transfer students at SAU:
You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED.
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5.
You must provide an official high school transcript.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different requirements for admission to St. Ambrose. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
Apply now
Fill out the BSW application
Apply to the BSW program
Admitted students fill out a supplemental application to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program. This application is open to current sophomores and transfer students. High school seniors can also for early admission to the BSW program.
If you have questions about the BSW program or application process, please contact us at
bsw@sau.edu
or 563-333-3938.
Admission for SAU sophomores or transfer students
Current SAU sophomores and transfer students may apply for Standard admission to the BSW program.
To apply,
fill out the BSW Standard Application.
Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement and contact information for a reference ready to attach. Review of applications begins April 1 and continues through July 15. Applications are reviewed in the order received.
Early admission for high school seniors
High achieving high school students interested in securing their place in the BSW program at SAU may apply for Track I consideration.
To apply,
fill out the BSW Track I Application
after you've been accepted to St. Ambrose. Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement ready to attach. Review of Track 1 applications will begin April 1.
High school students must earn a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.0 to qualify for early admission.
What can I do with a Bachelor of Social Work?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our BSW program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Social Worker
Healthcare Social Worker
Community Organizer
Policy Analyst
Potential employment settings
Non-profit
Community Organization
Family services
Local/state government
Traits of a Social Worker
Active listening
Self-awareness
Interpersonal engagement
Communication skills
Industry facts
The median wage for BSW graduates was $55,350 in May 2022.
Employment of BSW graduates is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032.
For more information on management employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook
.
News and events at SAU
From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z
St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026.
Read more
Get to know St. Ambrose chaplain Fr. Dale Mallory
Meet Fr. Dale Mallory, now in his second year as chaplain of Christ the King Chapel at St. Ambrose University.
Read more
From classroom to community: How St. Ambrose students grow through Project Renewal
For more than 50 years, Project Renewal has served as both a community anchor and a hands-on classroom for students from St. Ambrose University.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now
Skip to main content
Apply Now
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Classes start 05/18/2026
Apply now
Request information
What is a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree?
Our BSW program equips you to effect positive change in society through advocacy and empowerment. Graduate ready to make a meaningful impact on people and communities by working directly with clients or shaping systemic change through policy and advocacy.
Complete our request form
to receive details about our program. If you have further questions, contact
Jennifer Green
.
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
120 credits
39 gen ed credits
32 core credits
49 elective credits
Max transfer credits 90
Personal practicum placement process
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Why earn a BSW at SAU?
A BSW degree can lead graduates to work for social justice as a professional. Students are provided the knowledge, skills and values to pursue ethical social work while helping some of the most vulnerable people in society.
Expansive career options
The BSW offers a myriad of career options so graduates can pursue the area that interests them.
Focus on empowerment
Learn to identify strengths and resources to develop skills and create sustainable change for people and communities.
Earn a dual degree
Earn a dual degree by pairing your BSW with a BA in Psychology, Sociology, Justice, Diversity or Gender Studies
Personal practicum placement process
Work one-on-one with the Director of Practicum Education to secure a practicum that meets your interests and professional goals.
Fast-track your MSW
Eligible students can apply for advanced standing to earn their MSW in one year rather than two, saving time and money.
Strong foundation in social justice
The BSW is rooted in social justice. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills needed to make a difference.
Explore Bachelor of Social Work courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 39 gen ed credits,
32 major core credits, and
49 elective credits.
Explore social work courses
View all courses
Sample Courses
Class code
Class title
Credits
SWK 360 d1
Diversity
3 credits
SWK 330
Interpersonal Skills with Individuals
3 credits
SWK 333
Empowering Processes with Families and Group
3 credits
SWK 336
Transformative Practice with Organizations and Communities
3 credits
SWK 400/401
BSW Practicum Instruction I & II
6 credits
How much does a Bachelor of Social Work degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee.
You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses.
Explore the cost of attendance
.
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By semester
By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$19,674
$39,348
Housing**
$4,313
$8,625
Food***
$3,135
$6,270
Technology fee
$150
$300
Total direct charges (billable)
$27,272
$54,543
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Explore campus housing
Bachelor of Social Work program accreditation
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
represents social work education in the U.S. Its Board of Accreditation is the only accrediting agency for social work education in the U.S. and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Read more about our accreditation
How does SAU support students in the BSW program?
Faculty serve as sponsors for the Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society and Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. They mentor students in the honors program and actively support students who enjoy additional interests on campus.
Social work faculty
Chris E. Martin, MSW, LMSW, PhD
Jennifer Boedeker, MSW, LMSW
Jennifer Green
Kayla Behrens, MSW, LCSW/LISW
Kristi Lohmeier, MSSW, PhD
Kyle Bennett, Ph.D., MSW
Other support resources for BSW students
Student Success Center
Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Explore academic support services
Accessibility Resource Center
Need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements or disability support strategies? The Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.
Discover career support
Are cost savings available for the BSW program?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans.
Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage
.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement.
Explore SAU scholarships
.
Transfer previous credits into SAU
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money.
Learn how to transfer credits
.
Enroll in MSW Advanced Standing Program
Enroll in SAU's
MSW Advanced Standing
program and earn an MSW in one year rather than two. This saves time and money.
Campus resources for BSW students
BSW students may earn Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society membership and participate in Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. These organizations provide opportunities to create connections and develop leadership skills.
St. Ambrose is dedicated to your success
“The faculty at St. Ambrose are interested in your success above all else. They support their students in any way they can while still expecting the hard work and drive that comes with being Ambrosian. Whether it's faculty, staff, or a student led group, support is easy to come by when you ask for it.”
-Sarah Bisland ‘23, Bachelor of Social Work and Psychology
Visit Campus
How to apply for a Bachelor of Social Work at SAU
Apply to St. Ambrose
Students interested in the BSW program should first apply to St. Ambrose University. Here are the admissions requirements for first-year or transfer students at SAU:
You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED.
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5.
You must provide an official high school transcript.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different requirements for admission to St. Ambrose. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
Apply now
Fill out the BSW application
Apply to the BSW program
Admitted students fill out a supplemental application to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program. This application is open to current sophomores and transfer students. High school seniors can also for early admission to the BSW program.
If you have questions about the BSW program or application process, please contact us at
bsw@sau.edu
or 563-333-3938.
Admission for SAU sophomores or transfer students
Current SAU sophomores and transfer students may apply for Standard admission to the BSW program.
To apply,
fill out the BSW Standard Application.
Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement and contact information for a reference ready to attach. Review of applications begins April 1 and continues through July 15. Applications are reviewed in the order received.
Early admission for high school seniors
High achieving high school students interested in securing their place in the BSW program at SAU may apply for Track I consideration.
To apply,
fill out the BSW Track I Application
after you've been accepted to St. Ambrose. Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement ready to attach. Review of Track 1 applications will begin April 1.
High school students must earn a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.0 to qualify for early admission.
What can I do with a Bachelor of Social Work?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our BSW program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Social Worker
Healthcare Social Worker
Community Organizer
Policy Analyst
Potential employment settings
Non-profit
Community Organization
Family services
Local/state government
Traits of a Social Worker
Active listening
Self-awareness
Interpersonal engagement
Communication skills
Industry facts
The median wage for BSW graduates was $55,350 in May 2022.
Employment of BSW graduates is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032.
For more information on management employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook
.
News and events at SAU
From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z
St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026.
Read more
Get to know St. Ambrose chaplain Fr. Dale Mallory
Meet Fr. Dale Mallory, now in his second year as chaplain of Christ the King Chapel at St. Ambrose University.
Read more
From classroom to community: How St. Ambrose students grow through Project Renewal
For more than 50 years, Project Renewal has served as both a community anchor and a hands-on classroom for students from St. Ambrose University.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now