Online BSSW Program
Flexibility. Increased access. Quality education. Five words that describe our Online BSSW Program well.
Program overview
The Online BSSW Program is specifically designed for transfer students who have earned 60 transferrable credit hours and an Associate of Art (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree from a regionally accredited community college. Applicants who have not yet finished their A.A. or A.S. are eligible for admission as long as their A.A. or A.S. and 60 transferrable credit hours are complete by the fall semester. Transfer students who complete the Tennessee Transfer Pathway in Social Work are highly encouraged to apply.
All curriculum and program requirements for the Online BSSW Program are identical to those required for the on-campus BSSW Program. All required social work courses will be delivered exclusively online using real-time or synchronous video conference software. Courses will also feature asynchronous teaching methods to facilitate learning through the use of online learning resources outside predetermined time constraints. The Online BSSW Program offers cutting-edge electives, including courses on trauma, forensic social work, crisis intervention and suicidology, and social work with military and veteran populations. Like the on-campus BSSW Program, students will work with their field coordinator to secure their required field/practicum placements that occur in a real-world practice setting under the supervision of a professional social worker.
Why Choose the Online BSSW Program?
The University of Tennessee’s online Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program offers flexibility without compromising quality. Our top-ranked, CSWE-accredited program prepares students for meaningful, generalist social work practice while allowing them to pursue their degrees from anywhere.
Flexible Learning, Proven Results
Gain a high-quality education through our online format, which mirrors the rigor of our on-campus program. With support from experienced faculty and a curriculum designed to accommodate your schedule, you can achieve your academic and career goals on your terms.
Real-World Experience, Strong Connections
Our Online BSSW Program ensures students receive hands-on experience through field placements and industry partnerships. These opportunities, combined with our commitment to student success, prepare graduates to positively impact their communities.
Points of Pride
95%
employment rate
Over 95% of BSSW graduates report being employed within six months of graduation.
16
years in online education
The UTCSW has been a leader in online education excellence for over 16 years.
94%
retention rate
Our BSSW program holds a 94% retention rate for FY ’23.
What can you do with a BSSW in Social Work after graduation?
A degree in social work opens the door to a diverse array of career opportunities, allowing graduates to make a meaningful impact in various sectors. Social workers can pursue roles in healthcare settings, schools, community organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, corporations, sports teams, the legal profession, and many other areas.
Case Worker
Caseworkers support individuals and families by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to address personal and social challenges. They help develop care plans and connect clients with essential services.
Healthcare Social Worker
Healthcare social workers assist patients and families by providing support, resources, and counseling to navigate medical and emotional challenges. They help with care planning and connect clients to relevant services and support systems.
Advocacy and Policy
Advocacy and policy social workers work to influence and shape social policies and systems. They advocate for marginalized groups and work on initiatives to improve social justice and public welfare.
Gerontology and Aging Services
Gerontology and aging services professionals support older adults by helping them with aging-related challenges and improving their quality of life. They offer resources, counseling, and care coordination to help seniors navigate various aspects of aging.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse professionals assist individuals battling addiction by providing assessment, counseling, and treatment planning. They offer support and resources to help clients overcome substance use disorders and work towards lasting recovery.
Unlock more with an MSSW
An MSSW degree equips professionals with advanced skills in clinical practice, policy analysis, and program management. This degree prepares graduates to tackle complex social issues, provide high-quality support to individuals and communities, and lead impactful initiatives in various settings.
Tennessee Community College Graduate?
The University of Tennessee College of Social Work (UTCSW) now has GUARANTEED and PRIORITY admission for Tennessee Community Colleges transfer students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) degree in our Online BSSW Program.
Learn more about guaranteed/priority admission
Featured Courses
Requirements and Curriculum for the BSSW Program
SOWK 200 – Introduction to Social Work and Social Justice
Introduction to the social work profession, covering its history, scope of practice, service consumers, and commitment to social justice. Focus on professional skills, values, ethics, and practice settings, as well as career patterns and methods.
SOWK 316 – Social Justice and Anti-oppressive Practices
Exploration of human diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on multicultural and social justice practice frameworks, critical theories, and a human rights perspective. Emphasis on ethical decision-making and practice with historically excluded and underserved populations.
SOWK 380N – Field Practicum I
Supervised field experience with practice situations for developing professional skills, values, and attitudes. The concurrent seminar focuses on the integration of knowledge with practice experiences.
SOWK 425 – Mental Illness and Generalist Social Work Practice
Examines the generalist social work role in working with individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Complementary minors
Are you pursuing a major in Social Work and looking to enhance your academic experience? Consider selecting a complementary minor that aligns with your career goals and personal interests. A well-chosen minor can deepen your understanding of social issues, enrich your skill set, and broaden your professional opportunities. Below are a few examples of minors that complement a social work degree.
Admissions and aid
Apply Now! Our application for Fall 2025 admission is now OPEN. Start your application to join the Volunteer family today.
We encourage all students to carefully plan for any needed financial assistance and explore all funding opportunities to help pay for their social work education. Several options are available.
Ready to take the next step?
Attend an Online BSSW Information Session
