School of Social Work
Social Work Mission Statement
The mission of the Social Work Program is to prepare generalist social workers who possess the knowledge, skills, and values to holistically and proactively engage clients and community partners in a diverse multifaceted ever changing global society. Our graduates promote social justice through practice with diverse client systems. The program is committed to maintaining and expanding the unique contributions of the Black experience to the field of social work at Kentucky State University, a historically Black land grant institution.
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Kentucky State University prepares students to address the complex challenges affecting the social functioning of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the program develops and strengthens the values, skills, knowledge, and processes essential for effective social work practice. It equips students for generalist, entry-level professional roles in both public and private sectors and lays a solid foundation for continued professional development, including graduate-level education in social work.
Master of Arts in Social Work
Program Overview Kentucky State University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares students for advanced professional practice with a dual emphasis on medical social work and social justice. Rooted in a commitment to equity, advocacy, and community well-being, the program equips students with the competencies necessary to address systemic barriers and complex individual needs in both clinical and policy-driven environments. Students will develop specialized skills in areas such as patient advocacy, chronic disease management, hospital discharge planning, mental health integration, and health equity. At the same time, they will engage in critical analysis of social policies, community organizing, and anti-oppressive practices aimed at promoting social, racial, and economic justice. Through rigorous coursework and immersive field education, graduates will be prepared for careers in diverse settings including hospitals, school settings, mental health agencies, public health departments, community organizations, advocacy groups, and government agencies. The program emphasizes ethical practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultural responsiveness, aligning with national social work competencies and supporting pathways to clinical licensure and leadership in health and human service systems.
Program Options
A full-time, on-campus, program delivered over 15-week semesters, featuring in-person instruction and supervised field internships.
Designed to facilitate a smooth transition for students transferring from other institutions into the BSW program.
Offered in a flexible, accelerated 8-week format, this program is ideal for non-traditional students and maintains the same academic standards as the on-campus program.
MSW Program Preparation Provides academic advising and strategic planning for students interested in pursuing a Master of Social Work at KSU.
Chair & Program Director
Dr. Angela Williams
Chair & Program Director
Director of Field Education
CW PREP Site Coordinator
School of Social Work
College of Arts & Sciences
Office: Hathaway Hall, 409
Phone: (502) 597-5919