Department of Social Work
Admissions
Choosing to major in social work is an important professional and career decision which requires learning about social work as a profession, self-awareness and value clarification, and informed decision-making. As students think about choosing a major, they should be exposed to the profession of social work, career opportunities, and challenges. Our department requires that students engage in self-awareness and examine their motivations for becoming a social worker. In order to facilitate this process, students who wish to major in social work must complete the "Admissions to the Major" process.
For beginning students, Introduction to Social Work (SWK 215) is used as the initial means to present information about the profession of social work and social work practice. Students are exposed to concepts and definitions of social work, the relationship between social problems and social work, fields of practice, and job opportunities. Students also complete a volunteer experience in a human service agency. In addition, students must complete an essay as part of the course requirements. This essay assists students to synthesize their knowledge about social work while also examining their personal interest and motivation for a career in social work.
Admission to the Social Work Major
Students wishing to formally declare Social Work as a major should visit the program office at Stone 268 in order to fill out a change of major form.
For students choosing to major in social work, the Undergraduate Admissions Application may be completed after completing SWK 215. Applications are available online and must include the application form, SWK 215 essay, two letters of reference using the included forms, a resume which details your leadership, work and volunteer experience, and a current UNCG Social Work degree evaluation. (This can be obtained by students from UNCGenie.)
To be considered for admission, a student must have a minimum overall GPA of 2.5, have completed SWK 215 with a minimum grade of C, have completed 51 semester hours, and complete the UNCG BSW application process. Transfer students who have completed the equivalent of SWK 215 at another accredited BSW program will also need to apply for admission and complete the essay. Students must be admitted to the major in order to take the first practice class, SWK 351.
Consideration for admission to the major is based upon:
- Satisfactory completion of SWK 215 with a minimum grade of C.
- A minimum University GPA of 2.5 and completion of 51 semester hours
- Presenting a completed application form
The deadline for applications is May 1. Students should submit their completed application to the department secretary. Admission to the social work major is competitive and limited. Applicants will be notified in writing concerning the admissions decision in June of each year. Under some circumstances we also consider admissions in December, see the BSW Program Director for more information.