Social Work

Social Work

As one of the oldest bachelor degree-level programs in the nation, the Xavier Department of Social Work offers the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. The BSW program has been continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1980. 

The purpose of the social work profession is to promote human and community well-being. Guided by a person-in-environment framework, a global perspective, respect for human diversity, and knowledge based on scientific inquiry, the purpose of social work is actualized through its quest for social, racial, economic, and environmental justice, the creation of conditions that facilitate the realization of human rights, the elimination of poverty, and the enhancement of the quality of life for all people, locally and globally. (CSWE, 2022, p. 14)

 

Mission Statement 

Xavier University's Department of Social Work seeks to educate and prepare students for competent generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.  The department fosters an academic environment of critical thinking with specific attention to Ignatian belonging and solidarity, social justice, and the values and ethics of the social work profession.

 

College of Professional Sciences

Social work is one of 16 undergraduate majors in the College of Professional Sciences, united across diverse areas by the shared mission of changing human lives for the better. The College of Professional Sciences educates future educators, healthcare providers, and social scientists who are driven to lead compassionately and make a difference in the lives of others.

 

 

Generalist Practice

The BSW program prepares students for generalist practice. 

Generalist practice is grounded in the liberal arts and the person-in-environment framework. To promote human and social well-being, generalist practitioners use a range of prevention and intervention methods in their practice with diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, based on scientific inquiry and best practices. The generalist practitioner identifies with the social work profession and applies ethical principles and critical thinking in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Generalist practitioners engage diversity in their practice and advocate for human rights and social, racial, economic, and environmental justice. They recognize, support, and build on the strengths and resiliency of all human beings. They engage in research-informed practice and are proactive in responding to the impact of context on professional practice. (CSWE, 2022, p. 17)