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Social Work, B.A.

About Social Work, B.A. at CSUSB

If you’re passionate about helping people and making a difference in your community, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program at Cal State San Bernardino will prepare you to turn that passion into a meaningful career.

As a pre-social work major, you’ll begin with foundational coursework that builds your understanding of human behavior, social systems, and community engagement. Once you complete the lower-division requirements, you’ll advance into the BASW program, where you’ll gain hands-on experience working with individuals, families, and organizations.

Whether you plan to enter the workforce right after graduation or pursue a master’s degree (MSW) to expand your career opportunities, your BASW from CSUSB opens the door to a future centered on compassion, advocacy, and social change.

Careers in Social Work, B.A.

Social Work classroom

The job outlook for social workers is bright, with faster-than-average growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The profession allows you to work in a variety of areas and settings, including advocacy and community organizing, child welfare, healthcare, justice and corrections, mental health and clinical social work, substance abuse and occupational/employee assistance, as well as focusing on specific populations, including children, older people and people with a disability. 

You could also decide to pursue a management role or work in policy and planning, politics or research, says the National Association of Social Workers.

Sample Courses

Introduction to Social Work

Introductory survey of levels of social work practice and fields of practice. Review of NASW professional code of ethics and social work resources.

Introduction to the Criminal Justice System

Criminal justice standards and goals and the relationship of the social and behavioral sciences to criminal justice will be emphasized.

Psychological Statistics

Introduction to statistical reasoning and application of basic statistical procedures in psychology. Includes both descriptive and inferential statistics with emphasis on parametric techniques.

Meet Alum Roberta Fox

Roberta Fox
Determined to provide her child with the support and stability she didn’t have growing up, Roberta “Bobbie” Fox '20 decided to get an education to better her future for her and her son.
—Roberta Fox

Opportunities for Students

The B.A. in social work program offers a competitive Public Child Welfare Training (Title IV-E) program for students interested in working with children and families. The program provides financial support to students. Other resources and opportunities for students are shared in the BASW Student Handbook and at the School of Social Work site.

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With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.

Social Work, School of
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Social Work Office

San Bernardino Campus:  Social Work Office, SB-423 (fourth floor of the College of Social Behavioral Sciences)

Palm Desert Campus: Social Work Office, RG-211