BSSW Program
The Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program has received continuous accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education since 1975. The mission of the Grace Abbott School of Social Work is to educate students to become highly qualified social workers who serve people of all ages and influence the systems that affect them, to advance knowledge through teaching and research, and to engage with communities to promote societal well-being.
The BSSW program prepares graduates for beginning social work practice within a variety of social service settings. This degree qualifies graduates to receive the Certified Social Worker credential (CSW) in the state of Nebraska. Other states with licensure and certification of BSSW level social workers will also recognize this degree for licensure or certification. It also prepares students for advanced graduate social work education (the MSW degree).
Contact Information
Grace Abbott School of Social Work
Email: graceabbott@unomaha.edu
Call - 402.554.2792
Admission to the BSSW Program
Upon completion of at least 60 credit hours, UNO general education requirements, and three pre-social work courses (SOWK 1000, SOWK 1500, and SOWK 2120), the student may apply for formal admission into the BSSW degree program. Students begin the BSSW program every Fall semester and apply to the program the Spring prior. The BSSW application is open mid-January to mid-February each year. Admission to the BSSW Program is competitive, based on a combination of the following criteria:
- Completion of UNO general education.
- Successful performance in the three pre-professional social work courses (SOWK 1000, SOWK 1500 and SOWK 2120) with a grade of B or better.
- Minimum of 60 credit hours complete with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Well written personal statement evidencing potential for successful practice in the field of Social Work.
- Positive references
Social Work is a profession for those with a strong desire to help improve people’s lives. Social workers aim to strengthen those who are vulnerable or living in poverty, build community, and improve overall well-being. Social work is a versatile career choice. Social workers can specialize in service to a particular population, work in a certain setting, or focus on research, social welfare planning and policy development. Social work is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States.
Social workers are employed in:
- hospitals and health care settings
- community mental health and private practice clinics
- Veterans Affairs
- child welfare agencies
- criminal justice, corrections, and victim advocacy programs
- elementary and secondary schools
- crisis and homeless shelters
- drug and alcohol treatment centers
- specialized non-profit organizations
- local, state, and federal government agencies