Social Work: A Dynamic, Versatile, and Rewarding Profession

A career projected to grow much faster than the average for all other occupations in the US*

Social workers:

  • Constantly strive to understand the person in the context of their environment
  • Assist and advocate with individuals, families, and groups to improve well-being
  • Engage in community activism and organizing to advance social change
  • Work for structural change in organizations to address power inequities
  • Advance policies for economic and social justice, and human rights

Our social justice informed curriculum prepares you for community-based generalist social work practice through rigorous course work and hands-on learning. Our graduates report being well prepared for careers in social work and graduate school.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019

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Is Social Work for me?

Social work requires a centering commitment to social justice, valuing of human diversity, and desire to engage in social change. It is challenging, and not for everyone. Social workers leverage their knowledge, values, and skills to be change agents. How do your interests, personality, skills, and passions align with the profession?

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What is Social Work?

The primary focus of social work is in the interaction between the person and the context of their environment. We are advocates and activists who strive to improve human well-being with a particular focus on those oppressed, vulnerable, and living in poverty. Social justice is at the heart of our work.

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Degrees & Requirements

Our degrees include the Social Work major, Social Welfare minor, and Social Work with Honors. Classroom experience is connected to real world practice through your field practicum. Students who seek a path to help others, improve society, and advocate for just social conditions thrive in social work and have many career options.

Council on Social Work Education

Social Work News

“NASW offers its support to those who lost loved ones in terrorist attacks in Israel”

NASW (National Association of Social Workers) Logo

“The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) offers its condolences and support to people who lost loved ones in the terrorist attacks in Israel and to those continuing to suffer the loss of family members, homes, and communities in Israel and in Gaza.”
Oct 24, 2023

Read More about “NASW offers its support to those who lost loved ones in terrorist attacks in Israel”

From the NASW: "New Social Worker and Seasoned Pro: Fighting Burnout"

NASW (National Association of Social Workers) Logo

"Burnout can affect new and experienced social workers as well as students studying to enter the profession. Hear from [NASW] members about resources to manage and avoid burnout."
Sep 22, 2023

Read More about From the NASW: "New Social Worker and Seasoned Pro: Fighting Burnout"


Announcements

Latest News

Freshmen & Sophomore Social Work candidates and those interested in the Social Work major are invited to attend an Information Session (via zoom) to learn more about the program and profession:

Tuesday, February 13 2024 4:00pm - 4:45pm

Please RSVP mccainanna@seattleu.edu if you are attending. A zoom meeting invite will be sent to you.

Dr. Amelia Seraphia Derr, BSW Director / SW Department Chair, will be hosting this Information session along with other faculty members of the Department of Social Work. They will answer your questions and provide a peek into your potential future!

Graduating Seniors Receive Awards

Cullin Egge receives the 2022-23 President's Award, Richard P. Hickey Award and Dr. Madeline Lovell Academic Excellence Award.  Kiarra Woodman receives 2023 Social Work Social Justice Award... and more student acknowledgements. Read about them here.

Reinforcing the Essential Nature of Social Work

From the National Association of Social Work, Association of Social Work Boards, and Council of Social Work Education. Read the article.

Contact Us

  • Amelia Seraphia Derr, MSW, PhD

    Amelia Seraphia Derr, MSW, PhD

    Director, Bachelor of Social Work

    Associate Professor

    Email

  • Gabriela A. Hyre. MSW

    Field Director, Social Work

    Assistant Clinical Professor, Social Work

    ghyre@seattleu.edu

  • Anna McCain

    Anna McCain

    Administrative Assistant, Social Work Department

    Email