Students can earn undergraduate and graduate social work degrees. The most common undergraduate degree is a bachelor of arts in social work (BASW). At San Diego State University (SDSU), this is a 69-unit program designed to prepare students for a variety of social work environments. A number of biology, economics, public health, psychology, sociology, statistics and social work classes are required for completion of the program. Latter stages of the program allow students real-world work experience in the field. A minor in social work is another undergraduate option. At SDSU, this is a 24-unit program.
The most common social work graduate degree is a master of social work (MSW). At Azusa Pacific University, this is a 36-unit to 60-unit curriculum that can last anywhere from one to four years, depending on how aggressively students organize their class schedule. A master's program typically focuses in more specialized areas of the profession, such as clinical practice with individuals and families, and community practice and partnerships. Those who complete the program receive accreditation with the Council on Social Work Education and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
To earn a social work degree, students must take courses in general and specialized topics. For instance, general courses include introductory classes on social work and social welfare, society, policies and foundations of general practice. As students delve deeper into the curriculum, courses become more specialized. At San Jose State University, these courses integrate learning with real-world social work settings. Students are assigned to community projects and programs, introduced to social work research methods and learn how to work with children and families in different scenarios.
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences requires students at some California schools to complete additional courses, in addition to a school's specific social work course programming, to receive licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) certification. At California State University Fresno, these classes are programs that enhance and broaden a student's understanding of individuals and families in various situations. These include classes on human sexuality, alcoholism and other chemical dependency, child abuse assessment and courses on spousal and partner abuse.