Social Work

About

What is Social Work?

• Is a proud profession with a long history of helping individuals, families, groups and communities through direct and indirect interventions.

• The major is anchored in a liberal arts foundation, social work knowledge, values and skills.

• Is an exciting career choice with many options and rewards.

• Is a growth field.; employment of social workers expected to increase by 22 percent during the 2006-16 decade, which is much faster than the average for all occupations (http://www.bls.gov/ooh/).

• Salaries are competitive.

• Fields of practice include but not limited to: gerontology, child welfare, substance abuse, health, mental health, corrections, school social work, disabilities and homelessness.

Mission and Objectives

The Rutgers-Newark Department of Social Work prepares students to become BSW level generalist professionals to carry out the mandates of the social work profession with a diversity of client systems and with the most vulnerable members of society. With a focus on the urban environment, the program seeks to develop a cadre of competent generalist practitioners who:

• Have a passion and a calling for the profession.

• Understand and adhere to social work ethics and values.

• Exhibit respect for diversity, demonstrate cultural awareness and competency.

• Advocate for social and economic justice.

• Contribute to and influence policy and research.

• Engage in life long learning.

The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

A minor in Social Work/Social Welfare is NOT available.

How You Will Learn

Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards

Expected student learning outcomes/competencies:
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Competency 4: Engage In Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities.