BSW Program
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Kentucky State University designed to prepare, develop, and strengthen the values, skills, knowledge and processes essential for addressing challenges that hinder the social functioning of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the program aims to equip undergraduate students for generalist, entry-level professional social work practice in both public and private sectors. Additionally, it fosters continued professional growth, including preparation for graduate-level social work education. The School of Social Work at Kentucky State offers a Residential BSW Program and a Fully-Online BSW Program.
Kentucky Licensure & Certifications
This program fulfills the educational requirements for the Certified Social Worker (CSW) credential in Kentucky. Additional supervised experience and exams are required post-graduation for clinical licensure.
Specialized field placements through the CW PREP (Child Welfare Preparation) initiative are available to BSW students who are interested in the Public Child Welfare Certification. These students are provided tuition assistance and a stipend each semester they are in the program. The student will be obligated, by legal contract, to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to seek and accept a position of employment within 2 months of certification and remain employed there two years.
The BSW is stackable with advanced certifications, certificates, or micro-credentials, including the Trauma-Informed Response Certificate, minors such as Gerontology, Criminal Justice, and Psychology and the CW PREP program.
Admissions Process & Contact Information
Submit an application to apply for enrollment.
Office of Admissions
Julian M. Carroll
Academic Services Building
Suite 406
400 East Main Street
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 597-6813
Toll-free: (800) 633-9415
Email: admissions@kysu.edu
BSW ProgRam Application Requirements
Students may declare Social Work as a pre-major and are eligible for formal admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program sophomore year. Please note that the School of Social Work has its own separate application process for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program. You will be provided with the BSW Application directly from the School of Social Work.
Below, you will find important details and requirements that are part of the BSW application process to help you prepare:
1. Completion of SOW 201 Introduction to Social Work Practice with Practicum (B or higher)
2. Reflective Admission Essay (1-2 pages)
Your statement should address the following prompts:
Why do you want to pursue a BSW degree? Explain your motivation for pursuing a BSW degree. Discuss your interest in social work, any relevant experiences, and your career goals. The essay should introduce your commitment to social work, emphasizing personal experiences and values that align with the principles of the profession, such as equity, diversity, and advocacy. Reflect on how these experiences have shaped your passion for addressing societal challenges and empowering individuals and communities. In the educational goals section, discuss your academic journey, highlighting courses, projects, or volunteer experiences that demonstrate your preparedness for the program. Show enthusiasm for gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for effective social work practice. This may include working with underserved populations, advocating for policy changes, or focusing on community-building initiatives. Share your vision for contributing to systemic improvements and promoting social justice through your professional efforts. Conclude by reaffirming your passion for social work, your readiness to engage with the program's challenges, and your desire to make a meaningful impact in the field.
3. Two Letters of Recommendation
Please submit two letters of recommendation. At least one must be from a professor, or professional in the field of social work or a related field.
GPA Below the Required Minimum? Submit a GPA Appeal
If your GPA is below the required minimum for the program (2.5), you may still submit a GPA Appeal. You may still apply by submitting a GPA Appeal as a separate document with your application.
Your GPA Appeal should include:
- Explanation of GPA Deficiency
What circumstances affected your academic performance?
(e.g., personal challenges, medical issues, family obligations) - Steps Taken to Improve Academic Performance
Describe any measures you have taken since the time of your academic challenges to improve your performance. This may include retaking courses, additional training, or other relevant educational experiences. - Why You Are Prepared to Succeed in the BSW Program
Provide reasons why you are confident that you will be successful in the program despite past academic difficulties.
Contact Us
Kaelen Brunson
Administrative Assistant
CW PREP Site Support Coordinator
School of Social Work
College of Arts & Sciences
Email: kaelen.brunson@kysu.edu
Phone: (502) 597-6442
Dr. Angela Williams
Chair & Program Director
Director of Field Education
CW PREP Site Coordinator
College of Arts & Sciences
Email: angela.williams2@kysu.edu