4 CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Utah

Looking to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work in Utah? You have four excellent CSWE-accredited programs to pick from.

Utah takes social work education seriously. The state’s four universities with Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation uphold rigorous standards. Their graduates are ready for professional practice and qualify for licensure. The University of Utah welcomes about 300 BSW students each year. Utah State University specializes in rural social work practice with 150 students and gives students personal attention through its 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Utah Valley University teaches 200 students throughout Utah County and the Wasatch Front. Weber State University in Ogden has a tight-knit community of 175 students. These programs help you match your career goals through specialized training and hands-on field experience. Some of these schools might also let you earn your bachelor’s degree in social work online.

University of Utah BSW Program

The University of Utah has a complete Bachelor of Social Work program that gets students ready for entry-level work in human service settings. BSW graduates gain the knowledge, skills, and professional values they need to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of Utah creates professionals who can tackle personal and social problems while fighting for social justice. This CSWE-accredited program needs 120 total credit hours, with 65 credit hours of core curriculum and a 400-hour field practicum. Students must take courses in the right order to meet accreditation standards.

These foundation courses start your social work journey:

• SW 1010 Social Work and Social Welfare
• PSY 1010 General Psychology
• SOC 1010 Introduction to Sociology
• POLS 1100 US National Government
• WRTG 2010 Intermediate Writing
• MATH 1030, 1035, 1040, 1070, 1080 or higher

Students need a minimum 2.5 GPA in all program-required courses. The program has three tracks so students can shape their education around their career goals. BSW graduates can join the University’s three-semester Advanced Standing MSW Program if they want more education.

Specializations

BSW students get a solid foundation in general social work. Those moving on to the MSW program can pick from seven specialized areas:

1. Aging in Social Work
2. Child Welfare in Social Work
3. Forensic Social Work
4. Global Social Work
5. Health in Social Work
6. Mental Health in Social Work
7. Substance Use in Social Work

Each specialization digs deep into its field through advanced coursework. BSW students who want to work with children and families can apply for the Child Welfare Title IV-E Career Path grant. This grant comes from the College of Social Work and Utah State Division of Child and Family Services.

The program’s advanced generalist point of view helps social workers develop skills for micro, mezzo, and macro practice with clients of all types. This matches the social work profession’s goal to ease human suffering, improve well-being, and champion social justice.

Field education opportunities

Field education, considered the “signature pedagogy” of social work curriculum, forms an integral part of the University of Utah’s BSW program. All students must complete practicum clock hours, learning objectives, and practice requirements while receiving at least 75% in co-curricular Canvas coursework delivered through a practicum seminar.

BSW students typically begin their practicum after completing all other program curriculum. Although most students complete their practicum in one semester, they may elect to split it over two semesters. The practicum experience includes:

• Placement in approved community agencies
• Direct supervision by qualified practitioners serving as Field Instructors
• Careful vetting of all partnering agencies by the College of Social Work
• Assessment of credentials, experience, and teaching ability of agency Field Instructors

The University maintains partnerships with over 300 off-campus social service agencies, providing students abundant opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills. The Practicum Office manages the Field Education Program and tracks students’ progress during their practicum training using the web-based Intern Placement Tracking system.

Students receive orientation information about practicum at different times depending on their completion semester. Generally, campus-based students cannot arrange their own placements, whereas online BSW students residing outside Utah may research potential field placements in their geographic area with Field Liaison support.

Tuition and costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the University of Utah offers different cost structures based on living arrangements. The estimated annual cost of attendance for undergraduate social work students includes:

Tuition and Fees:

• Resident: $12,424
• Non-Resident: $15,306

Beyond tuition, students must account for additional expenses that vary by living situation:

For the online BSW program, tuition is currently $537.55 per credit (effective Fall 2025). This rate does not include additional fees for online textbooks or proctored exams, which vary by program. Scholarships are available to qualifying students in both campus and online BSW programs.

Admission requirements

The BSW Program operates under a selective admissions policy, ensuring program excellence, quality practicum placements, and adherence to accreditation requirements. Meeting minimum standards does not guarantee admission, as the program admits a limited number of students each year.

Key Application Deadlines:

• Fall Semester: March 15th (11:59 pm MST)
• Spring Semester: September 15th (11:59 pm MST)

Minimum Requirements:

• 75 cumulative GPA
• Completion of prerequisite courses with grade of ‘C-‘ or better (MATH QL requires ‘D-‘ or better)
• At least 30 college-level credits completed or in-progress at time of application

Required Application Materials:

1. Transcripts from all institutions previously or currently attended
2. Resume outlining volunteer/professional work experience in human services (maximum two pages)
3. Two professional recommendations (requested separately from application)
4. Personal statement essay responses to four prompts
5. Optional GPA statement if needed

All applicants receive notification via email within six weeks of the application deadline. Students denied admission may reapply during the next admission cycle or consult with a CSW academic advisor to explore alternative career paths.

Online bachelor’s degree in social work

The University of Utah offers a fully online BSW program through UOnline, giving students flexibility to complete coursework remotely. As one of only 16 BSW online programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program ensures students take relevant courses meeting professional standards.

The online program mirrors the campus-based curriculum, focusing on empowering students to become change agents who improve individual and community well-being. Students learn to collaborate with minority communities—including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and rural populations—to address challenges and create effective solutions.

Like the campus program, online students must complete prerequisite courses before applying:

• POLS 1100: U.S. National Government
• PSY 1010: General Psychology
• SOC 1010: Introduction to Sociology
• SW 1010: Social Work and Social Welfare
• QL: Lower Division Math
• WR2: Lower Division Writing

The program consists of general education requirements and 48 credit hours in the social work major, including a hands-on practicum. Most students complete their BSW coursework and internships over three to four semesters, taking 12 to 15 credits per semester, with part-time options also available.

Career prospects for graduates are promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 7% growth for social workers through 2033 and 67,300 new jobs opening annually. The median salary for social workers in 2023 was $58,380, making this a financially viable career path. Graduates work in diverse settings including public service, child welfare, nonprofits, policy, healthcare, and education.

Upon earning their BSW, graduates become eligible to apply for UOnline’s Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program, which can lead to licensure as a certified social worker or clinical social worker.

Utah State University BSW Program

Utah State University stands out in Utah’s social work education world. Its focus on preparing students to work in rural communities makes it unique. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program teaches generalist social work skills that help graduates tackle complex social issues in settings of all types.

Program overview

USU’s BSW program shapes students into knowledgeable and caring practitioners who understand professional values deeply. Students learn the significance of human relationships, social justice advocacy, respect for human dignity, and skilled practice. This CSWE-accredited program gives students the tools to work in human service positions and qualify for licensure across all 50 states.

Students need 120 credits to earn their BSW degree. They develop skills to help individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities effectively. The program follows a step-by-step approach. Each course builds on previous ones to create a complete learning experience.

USU students start as pre-majors until they’re accepted into the program. After admission, they follow a specific course sequence in their third and fourth years. This well-laid-out approach ensures they’re ready for entry-level jobs in social service settings.

The program rests on three main philosophies:

1. The strengths perspective
2. The empowerment approach
3. Social justice philosophy

These themes run through every course. They show the program’s steadfast dedication to solving today’s social problems like poverty, racism, discrimination, and economic injustice.

Specializations

The BSW program uses an advanced generalist framework that opens many career paths. Instead of narrow specializations, undergraduate students get broad training that works in many settings.

This advanced generalist approach helps students handle complex problems across multiple systems. They become adaptable professionals who can work with individuals, groups, communities, and policies.

Students can shape their education through elective courses. The program needs nine elective credits – at least two in Social Work and one upper-division elective from related departments. Some specialized courses include:

• SW 3350: Child Welfare
• SW 3650: Mental Health
• SW 5525: Aging in the 21st Century
• SW 5575: Substance Use Disorders
• SW 5920: Trauma and Resilience

Students wanting more specialized training can join USU’s MSW program. BSW graduates might qualify for the Advanced Standing MSW Program. They can finish it in one year at Logan campus or five semesters through USU’s statewide campus network.

Field education opportunities

Field education plays a significant role in USU’s BSW program. It bridges classroom theory and hands-on experience. Every student must complete a supervised internship at an approved site.

The practicum at USU involves two semester-long placements during senior year:

• SW 4870: Beginning Field Practicum (Fall semester) – 6 credits
• SW 5870: Advanced Field Practicum (Spring semester) – 6 credits

Students start their practicum placement process in spring of junior year while taking SW 4150 (Practice II) and SW 4160 (Practice III). The process includes orientation and application steps to find the right placement.

These ground experiences let students practice what they’ve learned while getting guidance from experienced professionals. The department connects students with placements that match their career goals through partnerships with Utah’s social service agencies.

Field education shows how USU values hands-on learning to prepare future professionals. This matches the Council on Social Work Education’s view of field education as social work education’s “signature pedagogy.”

Admission requirements

The Social Work program has its own admission process beyond general university requirements. New freshmen who get into USU in good standing can start as pre-majors. Transfer students need at least a 2.75 GPA.

Students apply for the Social Work major by March 1st of sophomore year or after finishing prerequisites. The application needs:

• An application through the social work website
• Unofficial transcripts from previous schools
• Contact details for an academic reference

After getting into the program, students must keep a 2.75 GPA in both major and overall courses. They need a B- or better in all SW courses and at least a C in other major-specific courses.

Anyone can take social work courses except practice and field practicum classes – these need formal admission. The program’s step-by-step nature means students must maintain good grades and show professional behavior throughout.

MSW program options vary based on whether students have a BSW degree. The traditional two-year MSW runs at Logan campus, while a three-year part-time option works through statewide campuses. BSW holders can choose between a one-year full-time program in Logan or a five-semester part-time program at statewide campuses.

USU maintains CSWE accreditation standards carefully. This means graduates can get licensed anywhere in the U.S., whatever state they choose to work in.

Utah Valley University BSW Program

Utah Valley University offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Social Work program in Utah Valley’s heart. The program focuses on behavioral health and substance abuse treatment. Around 200 students from Utah County and the growing Wasatch Front region benefit from this program.

Program overview

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits UVU’s BSW program, which meets national social work education standards. Students learn to address complex social problems that affect communities and individuals in today’s society. The program defines social work as “the professional activity of helping individuals, groups, or communities enhance or restore their capacity for social functioning and creating societal conditions favorable to this goal”.

The curriculum revolves around seven core learning outcomes:

• Demonstrating ethical and professional behavior
• Engaging diversity and difference in practice
• Engaging in practice-informed research
• Engaging in policy practice
• Assessing individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Intervening with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Evaluating practice with various client systems

The program’s location in Orem gives students access to diverse field placement sites throughout Utah County’s urban and suburban areas. Students build professional connections within local communities that boost their job prospects after graduation.

Specializations

UVU’s BSW program takes innovative approaches to social work education. Students practice intervention techniques in simulation labs under controlled environments. The curriculum’s strong behavioral health focus has specialized coursework in:

• Addiction studies
• Trauma-informed care
• Mental Health First Aid certification

Students work with local treatment centers, including the Utah State Hospital and community mental health agencies.

UVU also offers a Master of Social Work program that builds on the BSW foundation. This Advanced Generalist program gives students skills that span individual and community-level social work practice. The program has program planning, advocacy, policy analysis, and evidence-based interventions.

MSW students can choose electives from three emphasis areas:

1. Addictions
2. Mental Health
3. Engaging with Diverse Populations

Students attend in-person classes once weekly (usually Fridays) in this hybrid program. They complete remaining studies online, balancing flexibility with classroom learning.

Field education opportunities

Field education is a vital part of UVU’s BSW program. It connects theoretical knowledge with ground application. Senior year students must complete a 450-hour practicum with one agency. This experience lets them apply classroom learning in real-life settings under professional guidance.

The field education program’s key components include:

• Agency placements that line up with NASW Code of Ethics and CSWE standards
• Practicums that run with UVU’s academic calendar (mid-August through April)
• Weekly supervision from qualified professionals
• A Field Fair in February starts the placement process for next year

Students work in various settings like elementary and secondary schools, correctional facilities, hospitals, treatment centers, recovery programs, domestic violence shelters, and mental health clinics. These diverse placements help students explore different practice areas while developing professional skills.

Students track their progress through daily online time sheets that field instructors review and approve. They must maintain a B- or better in core social work courses and a 2.75 GPA overall to stay in their field placement.

Tuition and costs

For the 2025-2026 academic year, UVU’s tuition and fees are significantly lower than the national average for both in-state and out-of-state students:

These figures include both tuition and fees.

The total estimated expenses for undergraduate students vary based on living arrangements:

For non-resident students, total costs increase to $28,512.38 (living with parents) or $36,450.38 (not living with parents).

Financial aid is available to help offset these costs. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students at UVU was $6,442, with 41% of first-year students receiving need-based financial aid in fall 2023.

Admission requirements

Admission to UVU’s BSW program involves meeting specific requirements beyond general university admission:

1. Current admission to Utah Valley University
2. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
3. Completion of the following prerequisite courses:
   • ENGL 2010 with a C+ grade or higher
   • SW 1010 with a B- grade or higher
   • PSY 1010
   • All General Education courses

The application process includes several components:

• A well-organized 3-4 page personal statement in APA format
• A one-page professional resume detailing educational, professional, and volunteer experience
• Two references

After admission, students must follow a structured sequence of courses and maintain specific grade requirements. All BSW Social Work Core requirements must be completed with a grade of B- or higher, meanwhile social work electives must be completed with a C- grade or higher.

For students with transfer credits or associate degrees, the BSW Academic Advisor can verify requirement completion after transcripts have been processed by UVU Transfer Services.

Weber State University BSW Program

Weber State University in Ogden stands out with a social work program that serves approximately 175 students and maintains strong ties with Northern Utah’s healthcare and social service networks. Students who complete the BSW program can build successful careers that help communities create healthier social environments.

Program overview

Weber State’s bachelor’s degree social work program blends traditional education with fresh approaches, especially through team-based learning. BSW students work with peers from nursing, criminal justice, and health administration departments to solve complex case studies. This approach mirrors ground application settings and prepares graduates to work effectively in teams.

The curriculum shapes professionals who make real differences in people’s lives. The program’s open-door policy gives students personal attention that helps them develop both professionally and personally. BSW graduates can continue their education through Weber State’s Master of Social Work program, which offers traditional and advanced paths.

Specializations

The program’s gerontology certificate option sets it apart by addressing Utah’s aging population needs. This specialization creates career paths in:

• Aging services
• Long-term care administration
• Elder advocacy

The program’s Ogden location creates opportunities for students interested in military social work because of its proximity to Hill Air Force Base. Students learn specialized skills in crisis intervention and disaster response that prepare them for emergency management roles in social services.

Field education opportunities

Field education plays a vital role in Weber State’s BSW curriculum. Students complete 200 supervised hours at approved social service agencies where they turn classroom knowledge into professional skills. The WSU Community Education & Services clinic serves as one innovative placement site where faculty supervise students providing direct services.

Students pursuing a gerontology minor or certificate must complete GERT 4860 (Introductory Field Practicum) to gain specialized experience with older adults. Field education connects theory with practice while building crucial professional abilities.

Tuition and costs

Weber State’s competitive tuition rates for 2025-2026 academic year are:

These rates cover full-time tuition for two semesters. Students should plan for extra costs including $789 in student fees and about $1,400 for books each year. On-campus housing costs range from $4,024 to $9,572 per academic year.

Admission requirements

Students must complete two steps to join the social work program. They need acceptance to Weber State University first. Then they can apply to the social work program separately.

Students wanting the gerontology certificate must take these prerequisites: GERT 1010 (Introduction to Gerontology), GERT 3320 (Ethnicity and Older Women in American Society), and GERT 3500 (Social Welfare & Gerontological Policy Development and Service).

Spring applications are due in February, while Fall applications must be in by May. Accepted students become part of the Weber State University Social Work Club (WSUSW) and participate in community service and scholarly projects throughout the year.

Take the Next Step

Your first big step toward a social work career in Utah starts with picking the right BSW program. Four CSWE-accredited programs stand out, each with its own strengths that meet professional licensing standards. These universities bring something special to the table – from unique course focus to field work chances to program setup.

The University of Utah shines with its complete online program and seven specialized areas in its MSW track. Utah State University prepares students well for rural social work through its advanced generalist approach. Utah Valley University makes its mark with behavioral health focus and hands-on learning in simulation labs. Weber State University teams up with other disciplines and offers a valuable gerontology certificate option.

Tuition varies between schools, but all of them help students with financial aid to cut down costs. On top of that, you’ll get real-world experience before graduation through field education, which makes you more employable.

Each program has slightly different entry requirements. They all look for good grades and personal qualities needed to succeed in social work. These programs follow a set order, so you should start with clear goals and know what to expect.

Any of these schools will teach you how to tackle complex social issues and stand up for vulnerable people. Take time to visit the campuses, talk to students or graduates, and think over which program fits your career goals best.

These four CSWE-accredited programs will give you a solid foundation. You’ll be ready to start a rewarding career that helps people and builds stronger communities in Utah and beyond.