Admission Policy

The social work program operates under a selective admissions policy. The policy is based on the need to maintain a program of excellence in the classroom, assure availability of quality internship placements, and adhere to accreditation requirements. The B.S.W. Program reserves the right to admit a limited number of students each year. Meeting the minimum standards does not guarantee a student will be admitted to the program. While students who are denied admission are advised to consult with their advisor regarding career alternatives, they are eligible to re-apply.

Admission to the B.S.W. program is open to all students who meet the requirements. Anyone interested in the program should declare a major in the field and seek advising from the B.S.W. program faculty.

Enrollment in selected upper division social work courses is restricted to students who have been admitted to the program. Students may appeal a denial of admission by following procedures outlined in the University of Utah B.S.W. Program Student Handbook.

A maximum of 40 students will be admitted to the B.S.W. Program each year. Conviction for past criminal activity or conduct will not be used as a criterion for admission into the B.S.W. Program. However, students are advised that past or future criminal activity or conduct may limit or inhibit the student from securing a social work internship which is required for completion of the B.S.W. degree. In addition, the student may be ineligible to receive state certification or licensure to practice social work.

Requirements

• Completion of an application form (See application procedures)
• Attainment of a 2.35 overall Grade Point Average
• Completion or registration of prerequisite courses
• Official transcript of most recent school attended
• Personal statement
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Read and Abide by the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics

Admission decisions for the B.S.W. program are based upon a review of academic performance, relevant work or volunteer experience, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Applications are reviewed after all materials have been submitted. If needed, a student may be asked to complete a formal interview with the Admission Committee, as well as submit additional documentation for those who can support the student's readiness for a career in social work. The Admissions Committee may seek additional information from social work faculty, the applicant, or other formal sources. The Committee will focus on academic achievement as well as criteria that demonstrate a commitment to social work values, beginning understanding of the social work profession, professional attitude and behavior, emotional maturity, and ability to express oneself clearly both orally and in writing.

Following review by the Committee, the applicant will be notified in writing of the Committee's decision. Committee options include full admission, conditional admission, or denial of admission. Denial of admission decisions may be appealed to the Committee and, subsequently, to the Director of the B.S.W. Program.

Anyone with an interest in social work who meets the minimum academic requirements is invited to apply. No student will be denied admission based upon race, gender, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, culture, creed, class, ethnicity, or national origin.

Transfer Students:

If you are attending a college or university in Utah (or BYU Idaho), the following link will assist you in determining what courses are offered at your current school and how they transfer into the B.S.W. Program: http://www.sa.utah.edu/admiss/Transfer/major/so_wk.htm