Achieving social justice requires social work. The Department of Social Work prepares students to promote social justice for people, families, groups and communities.

Objectives

The department works to prepare generalist practitioners in the knowledge, skills and values of the social work field. The department focuses on social work’s six core values:

1. Service
2. Social justice
3. Integrity
4. Importance of human relationships
5. Competency
6. Worth and dignity of the individual

The department uses evidence-based practices to inform and guide students’ work.

Career Opportunities

The Department of Social Work’s emphasis on generalist social work practice gives graduates great versatility as they pursue careers in the field.

Common employment areas include:

• Child welfare
• Aging services
• Nursing homes
• Hospitals and hospice
• Public health
• Community advocacy
• Family services
• Domestic violence services
• Homelessness services
• Criminal justice
• Education
• Legal services
• Substance abuse services
• Mental health
• Prevention programs

Special Aptitudes

Social work is a challenging and rewarding field. Effective social workers must be strong communicators who are emotionally mature, objective and sensitive. They must handle responsibility, work independently and maintain good working relationships with clients and colleagues.

An aptitude for mathematics is needed to analyze, compare and interpret complex data.

Accreditation

Nebraska Wesleyan University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Students who graduate from an accredited bachelor’s program may apply for Advanced Standing status at the graduate level. This status offers students the opportunity to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) in one calendar year.

Prospective social workers should research relevant licensure requirements in their state.