Our BSW program equips you to effect positive change in society through advocacy and empowerment. Graduate ready to make a meaningful impact on people and communities by working directly with clients or shaping systemic change through policy and advocacy.
Complete our request form to receive details about our program. If you have further questions, contact Jennifer Green.
A BSW degree can lead graduates to work for social justice as a professional. Students are provided the knowledge, skills and values to pursue ethical social work while helping some of the most vulnerable people in society.
The BSW offers a myriad of career options so graduates can pursue the area that interests them.
Learn to identify strengths and resources to develop skills and create sustainable change for people and communities.
Earn a dual degree by pairing your BSW with a BA in Psychology, Sociology, Justice, Diversity or Gender Studies
Work one-on-one with the Director of Practicum Education to secure a practicum that meets your interests and professional goals.
Eligible students can apply for advanced standing to earn their MSW in one year rather than two, saving time and money.
The BSW is rooted in social justice. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills needed to make a difference.
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SWK 360 d1 | Diversity | 3 credits |
| SWK 330 | Interpersonal Skills with Individuals | 3 credits |
| SWK 333 | Empowering Processes with Families and Group | 3 credits |
| SWK 336 | Transformative Practice with Organizations and Communities | 3 credits |
| SWK 400/401 | BSW Practicum Instruction I & II | 6 credits |
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $19,674 | $39,348 |
| Housing** | $4,313 | $8,625 |
| Food*** | $3,135 | $6,270 |
| Technology fee | $150 | $300 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $27,272 | $54,543 |
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) represents social work education in the U.S. Its Board of Accreditation is the only accrediting agency for social work education in the U.S. and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Faculty serve as sponsors for the Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society and Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. They mentor students in the honors program and actively support students who enjoy additional interests on campus.
Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements or disability support strategies? The Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Enroll in SAU's MSW Advanced Standing program and earn an MSW in one year rather than two. This saves time and money.
BSW students may earn Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society membership and participate in Empowerment and Beyond: Social Work Students for Advocacy. These organizations provide opportunities to create connections and develop leadership skills.
“The faculty at St. Ambrose are interested in your success above all else. They support their students in any way they can while still expecting the hard work and drive that comes with being Ambrosian. Whether it's faculty, staff, or a student led group, support is easy to come by when you ask for it.”
-Sarah Bisland ‘23, Bachelor of Social Work and Psychology
Students interested in the BSW program should first apply to St. Ambrose University. Here are the admissions requirements for first-year or transfer students at SAU:
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different requirements for admission to St. Ambrose. Here’s what you’ll need:
Admitted students fill out a supplemental application to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program. This application is open to current sophomores and transfer students. High school seniors can also for early admission to the BSW program.
If you have questions about the BSW program or application process, please contact us at bsw@sau.edu or 563-333-3938.
Current SAU sophomores and transfer students may apply for Standard admission to the BSW program.
To apply, fill out the BSW Standard Application. Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement and contact information for a reference ready to attach. Review of applications begins April 1 and continues through July 15. Applications are reviewed in the order received.
High achieving high school students interested in securing their place in the BSW program at SAU may apply for Track I consideration.
To apply, fill out the BSW Track I Application after you've been accepted to St. Ambrose. Please note that the application does not save; have your personal statement ready to attach. Review of Track 1 applications will begin April 1.
High school students must earn a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.0 to qualify for early admission.
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our BSW program could achieve.
For more information on management employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
