Social Work

Frequently Asked Questions

Social Work at Carthage

How do I know that the social work profession is right for me?

You are your own best guide, so follow your instinct. Read through the course listings, field placements ideas and visit the NASW web site to get a feel for the field. Try skimming the NASW Code of Ethics to see if these ethics match your own. Talk to current social work students about why they joined and where you see yourself working in the future. If possible, take an Introduction to Social Work course, which will give an overview of the field and your possible place in it.

Why should I choose Carthage's program?

The Carthage BSW program is fully accredited by the National Council on Social Work Education. Because of this accreditation, many of our students are able to enter graduate school with advanced standing, which means they are able to test out of most first semester classes.

Our curriculum covers work with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. Extensive field placements totaling more than 650 hours provide students with the experience and knowledge necessary to enter the social work profession, or continue on to a graduate education.

What are possible careers in social work?

Please refer to the Careers page, which includes information on potential salaries, field outlook and knowledge/skills recommended to become a social worker.

What are the field placements like?

You will have the following placements:

  • Introduction to Social Work— 32 hours volunteer work in a social work agency.
  • Practice I — 52 hours volunteer work in a social work agency, focusing on micro (working with individuals) practice
  • Practice II — 52 hours volunteer work in a social work agency, focusing on mezzo (working with groups) practice
  • Practice III — 52 hours volunteer work in a social work agency, focusing on macro (working with organizations/communities) practice
  • Senior Field Placement — 500 placement in area of your choice, done during the spring semester while taking the Senior Integrative Seminar

 You will be expected to arrange each of these placements, with assistance from the appropriate social work faculty. By finding these opportunities as undergraduates, students are prepared for finding graduate placements, volunteer work and paid positions after graduation.

Is it possible to minor in social work?

No. We do not offer a minor in social work.

What are popular minors for students who are social work majors?

Minors in other social sciences, such as sociology and psychology are popular. Foreign languages, specifically Spanish are also encouraged. It is not necessary to have a minor to graduate from the social work program.

What opportunities are available to become involved on campus as a social worker?

The social work department has two student organizations, The Student Social Work Organization (SWAK: Social Work Advocates for the Kommunity) and Phi Alpha. SWAK is open to students of all majors, but is primarily composed of social work students. Phi Alpha is the National Social Work Honor Fraternity on campus.

In addition, many social workers may choose to join other special interest or service groups including:

  • Circle K . service organization
  • Pi Delta Chi . service sorority
  • United Women of Color
  • Pals and Partners . after school tutoring for local children
  • Alpha Mu Gamma . National Honorary Foreign Language fraternity
  • Black Student Union (BSU)
  • ALLIES
  • NAACP
  • ADAPT
  • International Friendship Society
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Amnesty International

Academic Resources

Prospective Students

Carthage In-Depth

Carthage Symposium

Art Meets Biology. Students photograph biodiversity in Tucson, Ariz.


J-Term

A special month-long period of study in January to experiment, create and dream. Read more ...