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Bachelor of Social Work, Online
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is designed for students looking to gain a foundational understanding of social justice issues and enter the social work practice.
The online BSW degree focuses on the skills and knowledge related to the impact of social work on families, institutions and communities.
By emphasizing social justice dynamics, as well as critical analysis, planning and implementation skills, this program educates and empowers you to effectively advocate on behalf of marginalized individuals, become an agent of change and help others live safer, healthier lives.
Offered by the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work & Family Science at the University of Louisville, this undergraduate social work program reflects a long-standing commitment to academic excellence, community impact and preparing students for meaningful work in the field and opportunities to further advance academically through an MSSW and a DSW degree.
CW-PREP Program
Are you passionate about the welfare of children and families? The Child Welfare - Prepare, Retain, Engage and Partner (CW-PREP) Program is now accepting applications. Created in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the CW-PREP will award students with two years’ worth of tuition and a stipend in exchange for two years of post-graduation employment with the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS)—plus a $50k starting salary!
Both full-time online and on-campus Bachelor of Social Work students accepted or going into the Upper Division (junior and senior years) are eligible to apply. You must be based in Kentucky.
90 years of impact
The Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work & Family Science is celebrating 90 years of existence, academic excellence and community impact. Join a legacy of change-makers shaping our communities for the next 90 years and beyond.
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
100% Online
The big picture
We’re setting the standard for social work education in Kentucky and beyond.
The online Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Louisville is designed for students who want to make a meaningful difference through service, advocacy and community engagement. It is an excellent fit for those beginning a career in social work or related fields, as well as transfer students looking to build on prior college experience. With a strong foundation in social work practice and an emphasis on real-world application, the BSW prepares graduates for entry-level professional roles and future graduate study.
Online BSW degree highlights
- Build foundational social work skills to assess needs, plan interventions and support individuals and communities
- Learn to analyze, plan and enact effective interventions in response to complex social justice issues
- Specialize your social work education with an optional track in Alcohol and Drug Counseling*
- Gain supervised, hands-on experience through service learning and practicum placements
- Complete your degree fully online with flexible access designed for working and adult learners
- Transfer eligible credits (up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited four-year college) to accelerate your path to graduation
- Accelerate your degree with the Soaring Scholars Programs (take up to nine credits applicable to BSW and MSSW)
- Plan ahead for graduate pathways (MSSW and DSW degree) and scholarship opportunities
*Special scholarship opportunities are available to Kentucky students enrolling in this track.
Is social work right for me?
Because the social work profession requires full commitment and life-long dedication to the wellbeing and advancement of others, we strongly encourage you to review the NASW Code of Ethics before applying to a master’s in social work online degree program.
Ensure your beliefs and behaviors align with the social work profession's mission, ethical principles and core values.
Online student success coaching
As an online student enrolled in the BSW program, you will have the opportunity to get additional support from our Online Student Success team to help you build strong academic habits, stay motivated and make progress toward your goals while connecting you with peers and the broader Cardinal community.
Whether you’re balancing school with work, returning after time away or facing academic or personal challenges, our team provides one-on-one guidance, access to resources and personalized strategies to help you succeed.
"Social work is about being an agent of change and so most of the people who come to our program are the people who see things that they feel like need to be changed and want to take an active role in being a part of that."
Armon Perry, PhD
BSW Program Director
Leadership learning and growth should fit real life and so should your bachelor’s degree.
Take the best next step for your future today and set your aspirations in motion!
How to apply to UofL’s Online BSW degree
Check out the typical application deadlines for the Social Work degree program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Applicants are encouraged to work on and submit their complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts, test scores and other materials may take more time. Applications submitted or completed after the preferred deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis for the next available start/term.
All applicants are admitted first to the Lower Division and can apply for any of the above terms. Once admitted, those eligible for the Upper Division then complete a second application directly reviewed and managed by the Kent School. Students should discuss their Upper Division application with their advisor.
How to Apply for the Online BSW Program
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Verify your identity - provide ID/documentation as requested
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
What is required for admission to the Online BSW
New students and transfer students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent also accepted)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale; AND for transfer students, a minimum college GPA of 2.5 for good standing, but will accept 2.0-2.49 for conditional standing.
- Composite ACT* score of 20 or higher (test optional admission is granted on a case-by-case basis)
Transfer students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum college GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
No ACT/SAT? Test-optional admissions are granted on a case-by-case basis and require a comprehensive review of high school transcript, including grades and college-preparatory courses. A personal statement may be requested during the admissions review process.
Transfer credit
- Complete the transfer credit pre-evaluation to get an idea of how many credits you'll be able to transfer in toward your UofL bachelor's degree and visit our General Transfer Student page for more details.
- Transfer students who have earned an Associates of Arts or Associates of Science (AA and AS) degrees from KCTCS satisfy UofL’s Cardinal Core.
- Please note: Additional coursework may be required for admission to the BSW’s Upper Division. Entry into the Upper Division is only available to students first admitted to UofL’s Lower Division. Learn more about eligibility for Upper Division or review the Upper Division application checklist here.
For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Enrollment Services team at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
How much it costs to earn an Online BSW at UofL
Academic year tuition
$559 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
Additional costs may include: Professional Liability Insurance, NASW Membership, SONIA Practicum Fee
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
What will you learn in the Online BSW program?
Online courses
The online Bachelor of Social Work is a 120 credit hour program comprised of 31 credit hours of General Education (Cardinal Core), 29 credit hours Lower Division General Electives and supporting requirements and 60 credit hours in core courses. Online courses are delivered asynchronously (anytime, anywhere), in standard term length.
- General Education (Cardinal Core) Requirements: 31 credit hours
- Social Work Lower Division Requirements 3 29 credit hours
- Social Work Upper Division Requirements: 60 credit hours
To see all available online courses and degree completion requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
Start working on your application early and contact us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What can I do with a BSW?
The expertise you’ll develop as an online BSW student enables you to become an advocate for individuals and communities. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of social justice dynamics, critical thinking, issues impacting human welfare and best practices within the field.
Specific knowledge gained from the program includes:
- Contextual understanding of social welfare policy and its history in the U.S.
- How to practice social work with people who have suffered oppression such as racism, sexism, heterosexism, classism, ageism and ableism at the individual, community and institutional levels of society
- Comprehensive understanding of the interrelationship between problem conceptualization, policy options and their impact on social work practice and clients
- Option to specialize your social work education with an optional track in Alcohol and Drug Counseling, with special scholarship opportunities available to Kentucky students enrolling in this track
The social work occupation is expected to grow 9% nationwide by 2033, much faster than the average national growth rate across all occupations, with a median annual salary of $51,760 (bls.gov) and 80,260 annual job openings (Lightcast data).
Career opportunities available to BSW graduates include:
- Child and family social worker
- Health care social worker
- Mental health social worker
- Substance abuse social worker (requires completion of the specialized track in Alcohol and Drug Counseling)
Social work graduates with a BSW degree are equipped with a critical perspective that allows them to address community issues in a variety of settings including:
- Public school systems
- Hospitals, nursing homes and related health care agencies
- Local and national government agencies
- Non-profit and charitable organizations
- Criminal justice systems
- Human resource departments
Take the step today to advance your education and be ready for the workforce of tomorrow!
What your support network looks like
At UofL, online students are supported by a team that understands the demands of working professionals and what it takes to achieve their education goals and career aspirations. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Tea' Rupert | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Armon Perry | Program Director | armon.perry@louisville.edu | 502.852.3234 |
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Sarah Springer | Program Manager | s.springer@louisville.edu | 502.852.3935 |
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Lynetta Mathis, Dsw | Associate Dean, Academic Affair | lynetta.mathis@louisville.edu | 502.852.6126 |
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Bobby Cortes | Coordinator for Admissions and Recruitment | brcort02@louisville.ed | 502.852.3234 |
If this education opportunity matches your needs and goals, contact us today and let us help you get started on the path to success!
What else should you know
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission process, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
Can I start the practicum early, during the summer, to ease my schedule during the semester?
The practicum and practice courses are co-requisites and must be taken during Fall and Spring semesters. Depending on the social service organization, students may be required to complete orientation, in the event that the orientation begins before the semester, hours of orientation can still count toward practicum hours. For more information, please review the Practicum Brochure or reach out to the Practicum Education office at fieldedu@louisville.edu.
When is the practicum class scheduled? It is listed as "TBA" on the class schedule.
“TBA” refers to the assigned placement site. All practicum hours are spent at the placement agency.
Is the practicum considered part of the practice course?
The practicum, seminar and practice courses are self-standing courses, each with separate credit and faculty.
Are there field seminars for this practicum?
Yes, students attend practicum seminars that integrate theory and practice and learn about social work sites and client populations.
I work full-time. Can I have a practicum in the evenings and/or weekends?
Most social work placements are Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm, so adjustments to your work schedule may be necessary.
I plan on getting a new job. Can my new job count as my practicum?
Roles of employee and student must be separate. An employment approved practicum might be an option after meeting criteria.
Can I meet with my faculty advisor to help me plan my practicum and other classes?
Yes, consulting with your faculty advisor about career plans and electives is highly recommended. Upon admission, students can connect with their advisor and schedule an appointment by Using CardSmart.
How do I go about getting a practicum? Am I responsible to find my own placement?
Students collaborate with a Field Coordinator to identify placements and then interview agencies to finalize the match.
I know a really good private therapist with whom I would like to study. Can I do my practicum with this person?
The BSW practicum is generalist-focused. Clinical skills are developed at the Master's level, so it would not be appropriate. Please refer to our website for practicum placement for more information regarding this process.
There are no social workers at the agency I am interested in, but some good supervisors in other disciplines. Can they supervise me?
Practicum supervisors must hold a master’s degree in social work with two years of post-master's experience. For more information regarding prospective sites, please feel free to reach out to our Practicum Education office at fieldedu@louisville.edu.
I have a lot of interests. Can I have a different practicum site for each semester?
Practicum requires a two-semester placement in the same agency for deeper learning and skill development.
When will I know I have an approved practicum?
Once your interview is successful and the agency agrees to accept you, the Field Education Office will confirm the placement. Please refer to our website for practicum placement for more information regarding this process.
I have several years of social services experience. Can I get credit for that and waive the practicum requirement?
No, accreditation standards do not allow course credit for life or previous work experience for this discipline and degree.
I have no prior experience in social work, how do I write my resume?
All life experiences count. Your resume should reflect both paid and volunteer work and can be longer than typical business resumes.
I am a student in the fully online program, how does this practicum work?
Online students complete practicum at a local human service organization. Meetings are conducted via videoconferencing.
Financial considerations
Can I get paid for my practicum?
Paid practicums are rare. Financial aid and scholarships may be available through the university.
Students who are Kentucky residents who are in the Upper Division (Juniors/Seniors) can apply for the Child Welfare (CW) Prep program. CW PREP is an innovative workforce development program in partnership with Kentucky’s Department of Community-Based Services *(KY DBCS) to develop expertise in the child welfare workforce. The goal of CW PREP is to foster an unparalleled pathway for recruiting, supporting and retaining a vibrant, dynamic child welfare workforce. Students that are accepted into this program are provided with in-state tuition, a stipend and a particular concentration in public child welfare training (including special practicums, retreats and mentoring) for their final two years in the BSW program. For more information, please visit the CW-PREP website or contact emily.watts.1@louisville.edu.
Do I have to buy insurance for my practicum?
Yes, professional liability insurance is required. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) membership offers discounted rates for students.
Which level of insurance coverage do you recommend I get?
If in a medical setting, opt for the highest level of coverage. Otherwise, you can choose the coverage level like with other insurance.
How should I dress for my practicum?
Business casual attire is required, unless otherwise specified by the agency.
Is there an orientation for my practicum?
Yes, orientation is mandatory and conducted online during the first week of the semester. Please review the practicum placement webpage for more information regarding orientation.
When can I register for my practicum course?
You can register for your practicum course after being admitted.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
