What to Expect from an Online Bachelor's Program in Social Work
What Does This Degree Cover?
This degree teaches you how to put theories of human services into practice with individuals, groups, communities, and organizations. You will learn intervention techniques and good management practices, and develop skills in organization, planning, leadership, assessment, and evaluation. You will also learn problem-solving techniques and how to work actively as a part of a cohesive team. Coursework includes psychology, counseling, and social work. You will take classes such as:
- Introduction to Human Services
- Communication Skills
- Models of Effective Helping
- Case Management
- Human Lifespan Development
- Critical Thinking
- Theory, Practice and Application for Management
- Professional Ethics and Legal Issues
- Financial Analysis
- Organizational Psychology
- Advocacy and Mediation
- Cultural Diversity
- Building Community
- Marketing
What Does This Degree Prepare you for After Graduation?
A bachelor's degree in social work prepares graduates for entry-level positions in counseling, lower management, human services, and some social worker positions. This degree prepares you for the world of work through a combination of academic courses and real-life skills training. It also prepares you to continue into a master's program in social work, which can open up many more career opportunities and higher-income earning potential.
How Long Does it Take?
The length of time needed to graduate depends on several factors. Students with transferable course credit can earn their degrees faster, as can those who are able to dedicate themselves full-time to a degree, instead of part time. Students coming in with no transfer credits who can apply themselves full time should be able to earn a degree in four years.
How Much Does it Cost?
Online programs vary widely in cost, in part because some students begin with an associate's degree or previous coursework, which counts towards their bachelor's degree. Costs are also affected by whether you qualify for financial aid, scholarships, grants, loans, and reimbursement programs through your employer or the government. On average, most online schools charge between $300 and $500 per credit for tuition.
What Should you Look for When Choosing a Program?
Most importantly, you should check to see whether a program has accreditation before applying. “Accreditation” means that the school has undergone a thorough, rigorous evaluation of its degree programs, and it ensures that students there receive a quality education. You should therefore only seek programs that are accredited.
You should also inquire about payment options such as financial aid, tuition reimbursement, cash plans, direct employer billing, and military tuition assistance. The format of classes is also important, and helps determine your timeline for graduation. Other issues to consider are admission requirements, transferability of credits, program cost, and graduation requirements. Because everyone's circumstances are different, you should try to find a program that can be tailored to fit your needs as closely as possible.
Article Resources:
Ashford University
University of Phoenix: "Bachelor of Science in Human Services/Management"
University of Phoenix: "Human Services Degree Programs"
University of Phoenix: "Tuition and Financial Options"