Social Work

Program Type
Undergraduate Major
Degree
Bachelor of Art (BA)
Modes of Study
Blended;In person

Tuition & fees

Costs include tuition, fees, & other costs such as books. See cost details

Financial aid

On average, 92% of enrolled students who file a FAFSA receive an offer. 91% of offers include scholarships, grants, waiver, and/or work-study. Explore aid

Program duration

Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options

Admissions

SAT & ACT scores optional. Early action & year-round admissions. View application process & deadlines

Program Highlights

  • Prepare for a wide range of careers in areas such as family support, mental health support, rehabilitation, residential care, outreach, community education and organization, and advocacy.
  • Gain real-world experience through a year-long internship in approved agency settings under professional supervision.
  • Build community and grow professionally by joining the Social Work Student Organization or Phi Alpha Honor Society.
  • Learn from full-time faculty who are PhD-trained social work scholars with diverse areas of expertise in practice, theory, research, and policy.
  • Study in a program that is nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
  • Qualify to apply for state licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) as well as a Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community (MHRT-C).
  • Connect with fellow students: Most Social Work courses are held in-person on our Portland campus.

Expected career outcomes

A student wearing a hijab and glasses smiles.

Licensure and certification

As a graduate, you’ll be eligible to apply for the MHRT-C and state licensure at the LSW level.

A group of students face each other and work on their assignments in class.

National accreditation

Our program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which is the national organization that accredits all social work programs in the United States.

A student discusses the lesson with another student sitting nearby.

Looking ahead to graduate school?

Our MSW Advanced Standing option allows you to earn your Master of Social Work in as little as 1 year, after obtaining your bachelor’s degree in Social Work.

A USM student smiles and poses with a group of younger children.

Real-world experience

Field education is at the heart of our BA in Social Work program, and it’s an integral part of preparing for generalist practice. You’ll intern with an agency for two semesters, where you’ll learn to integrate classroom theory with the realities of professional social work.

An aerial view of our Portland campus and the East End of the Portland peninsula.

Accomplished faculty

Our full-time faculty have a wide variety of experience in the profession of social work. All faculty engage in active research that is typically connected with their work in the field. Research topics include social justice, mental health, compassion and wellness, and child welfare, among others.

A group of diverse students sit in a row and pay attention to lecture.

Program requirements

Prepare for a profession that is deeply committed to relieving human distress and alleviating the causes of social inequality and oppressive conditions. Study a multi-level, strengths-based practice that emphasizes community to enhance the well-being of diverse individuals, families, groups.

A student in a graduation cap and gown gazes upward.

Scholarship opportunities

Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.

Three students walk down the sidewalk of our Portland campus on a sunny day.

Considering transferring to USM?

We welcome students who are transferring from another four-year university or community college. Our knowledgeable Admissions Counselors will help you to navigate the admissions and credit-transfer process.

You may also be interested in…
Next steps

Our helpful admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services. We also invite you to explore the many ways to visit campus or to engage with us through online experiences.

Get info
Visit
Apply