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Social Work

Undergraduate Major & Minor College of Health Professions

Bachelor of Social Work

Two PLU social work students look at a laptop at a front desk at local school where they're completing a social work internship.
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If you’re interested in a career helping others, including children, youth, families; working with marginalized and disenfranchised populations; addressing behavioral health needs of the community; bringing about social change; and if you have a passion for social justice and service, PLU’s social work program is a great fit. As a social work student, you’ll learn from professors who are experts in the field and passionate teachers, and you’ll get hands-on experience through a field practicum with a local social service agency. Social work graduates can directly enter the workforce or pursue graduate studies, such as a Master’s in Social Work. No matter your path as a PLU social work student, you’ll be well-prepared to work effectively with individuals, families, small groups, communities, and organizations, and be an ethical agent for global and local change.

Graduates from the last 5 years: Their jobs

  • Case Manager, Puyallup Community Court
  • School Social Worker, Bethel School District
  • Behavioral Health Coordinator, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization
  • Complex Care Behavioral Health Social Worker, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital
  • Clinical Intervention Specialist
  • Program Assistant, University of Maryland School of Social Work
  • Mental Health Therapist, Amber Norris PLLC
  • Social Worker, Harborview Medical Center

Graduates from the last last 5 years: Their graduate programs

  • London School of Economics
  • University of Washington
  • Pacific University
  • Boise State University
  • Boise State University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Maryland - School of Social Work
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I chose to study social work at PLU after much thought about how I could best serve my community. I did not initially know social work would be where I ended up, but my choice with the program has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have endured. The program is so welcoming and meets every student where they are at.

— Maddie L., ‘21

100% of social work majors get hands-on learning experience through over 400 hours of field practicum.

The PLU social work curriculum allows for graduates to apply for advanced-standing, a one-year Master’s in Social Work (MSW) degree in programs nationwide (typically, the MSW takes two years).

Want to study abroad? There’s a popular social work study away class that takes place in Tobago or Rwanda during some of our January terms, taught by PLU professors and staff!

Another study away course is “January on the Hill”, where students engage in the Tacoma community and learn about services and work with marginalized persons and communities.

The PLU Social Work degree has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education for 45+ years.

Ready to get involved? Join Phi Alpha Honor Society, (the American honor society for Social Work students) and participate in any of PLU’s many service-focused clubs.