As you sort through various degree programs looking for the right one to invest your time and money into, you should focus on programs that can bring out the best in your personal qualities and future desires. Individuals in Minnesota that have the desire to pursue a degree program that can put them in touch with people in need should review Bachelor of Social Work programs available in their area, such as:
- Augsburg College
- Bemidji State University
- Minnesota State University Moorhead
- Minnesota State University-Mankato
- Saint Cloud State University
- St Catherine University
- University of St Thomas
Already have your BSW? Check out MSW programs in Minnesota (includes online).
Looking Into BSW Programs Online
Online BSW programs may be quickly becoming a popular option for Minnesota residents, due to its versatility after graduation and its convenience with program delivery. Online BSW programs can also be fitting choices for both new college learners looking for flexibility and busy adult learners attempting to advance their careers.
Minnesota currently provides both online and traditional BSW programs for you to choose from during your educational path. Read through our guide below to learn more about what is included in the BSW program and the career field that awaits you after finishing your studies.
BSW Degrees at Minnesota Based Campuses
As you review what Minnesota has to offer in terms of CSWE-accredited degree programs, you may find alternative programs that are better suited for what you require for your degree. Other universities that currently provide reliable BSW programs include Bethel University, Minnesota State University, and North Central University.
While you are reviewing the curriculum for these programs, you might see that each have unique takes on the required topics for BSW programs. Even though the courses for each program may differ, the topics covered in each are part of a larger standard requirement for CSWE accreditation.
Coursework
Common courses that you can engage in during your BSW program include those such as Introduction to Social Work, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, and Social Welfare Policy. Each of these courses can provide you with foundation knowledge for later courses, focusing on the general social work field, psychological concepts, and ethical practice in social work.
- Specific practical courses like Social Work with Adults can introduce you to common social problems faced by the adult population and many methods for establishing and maintaining services for this population. Courses like this one can prepare you for positions working with the adult population after graduation.
- Substance Abuse Social Work is an example of a specialty course that may be included within your BSW curriculum. Within this course, you may find information about the diagnostics of addiction, psychological and environmental influences, and common intervention practices utilized by social work professionals.
- Courses focusing on research or ethics can also be a major part of your degree program, since these skills can contribute to your problem-solving abilities and your client-centered focus throughout your career. Many programs also include some independent research practice throughout the learning process.
Combining each of these courses and experience components can all for social work students to gain extensive knowledge of different practice areas, social problems, and relative practical skills for their future careers. You are encouraged to choose a program that provides focus into areas that mean the most to you.
Popular Accredited BSW Program at Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University's online BSW is currently Minnesota's prime choice for incoming learners that are seeking convenience with their education. This program can provide you with the same level of quality as its competitive traditional program, only with the convenience of learning at times that work for you.
Bemidji's online BSW program includes an internship requirement for all students currently enrolled in the program. This experience component requires that students participate in 480 hours of field experience at a local social work organization pre-approved by the university.
This internship can be pursued through your local community, with many students choosing large social work organizations such as the Department of Children's Services for their field practice. This experience component can allow you to visualize your curriculum as its applied to actual clients in the field.
The combination of online courses and field experiences in this program can provide you with valuable knowledge and insight into practice in the real world environment. Completion of this program can also ensure that you are entering the field with ample expertise for providing meaningful services to the public.
Minnesota BSW Careers and Salaries
Social work career options within your state may be found in multiple fields depending on the demand. Social workers may commonly be sought after by mental health agencies, social service agencies, and even non-profit organizations within your state.
The average salary for a social worker in Minnesota is currently $67,790 per year. This average was gathered from real-world salaries of social workers currently employed in diverse markets in the social work field.
Some of the most popular career titles for social workers in Minnesota include Rehabilitation Social Worker, Addictions Social Worker, and Child and Family Social Worker. In some fields, you may work as a general social work professional and provide services to multiple groups in need.
Choosing a BSW program for your education can lead you to many fascinating fields working with extremely diverse groups in your community. This incredibly rewarding field can be a great place for you to explore your capabilities as a professional and as a service provider.
2021 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Social Workers, All other, reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed March 2023.
