Social Work
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program prepares students for professional practice with a curriculum that integrates theory with practical experience in a Social Welfare Agency. Graduates are eligible for licensing in Pennsylvania and many other states.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits the social work program. Students who want to earn a Master in Social Work (MSW) may be eligible for advanced standing in many graduate schools of social work throughout the United States.
CSWE
Accredited
Hands-On
Field Work Experience
Flexible Program Options
Mission
The Mission of Misericordia University's Social Work Program is to prepare students for entry-level generalist social work practice with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. Inherent within this mission is a commitment to the development of BSW graduates who are dedicated to improving social, economic and environmental conditions among diverse populations and to promoting the Sisters of Mercy values of mercy, service, justice and hospitality.
Find out about the Social Work profession as well as the advantages of Misericordia's BSW programs
National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR)
NCUR 2021 Conference - April 12-14
Kendra Mattice - Social Work Student
Social work student, Kendra Mattice, submitted her proposal, The Relationship between the Number of Arrests and Drug Treatment Court Completion, that was accepted for presentation at NCUR 2021 @Home on April 12-14, 2021. Dr. Viviana Lucabeche, associate professor of social work, served as Kendra's research mentor, advisor, and contributor.
The purpose of the study was to examine the number of arrests that occur before an individual is referred to a Drug Treatment Court (DTC) program for alcohol or substance use for the first time and the relationship this has on successful competition of a DTC program. The relationship was also examined to determine if there is any influence from variables such as gender and race/ethnicity.
I have really enjoyed this experience; I feel very fortunate to be only the second social work student to ever be accepted to NCUR and will be the first to present.
- Kendra Mattice
The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) provides support and professional development opportunities for faculty, staff, administrators, and students. The mission of the CUR is to support and promote high-quality mentored undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative inquiry.
BSW graduates may begin to apply to take the BSW licensing exam through the
Pennsylvania Licensure System (PALS)
Formats
- Traditional (on-campus)
- Accelerated (mostly online)
ARCH Accelerated Degree Program
ARCH Accelerated Degree Program
You can earn your Bachelor of Science in as little as 2 1/2 years by attending classes part-time. The convenient and predictable schedule allows you take classes either once a week or online up to 12 credits per semester. Courses are offered face-to-face in 5-week sessions at Luzerne County Community College on the Nanticoke Campus, or online in 7 1/2 week sessions.
Social Work majors are strongly advised and encouraged to pursue minor areas of study or certificates in Gerontology and Addictions Counseling. The Social Work Program has been responsible for the development, administration and supervision of the Gerontology and Addictions Counseling Certificate and minor programs.
Social Work majors who pursue the gerontology option may complete either their junior or senior field experience, or both, in a setting serving the elderly. The Gerontology minor evolved as a response to the large number of aging services and extraordinarily large aged population in this geographical area (almost 20% of residents in Luzerne County are aged 65 or older). As our society in general continues to gray, trained personnel will be needed.
This minor consists of 15 credits in gerontology courses, including two required courses and three electives.
The addictions counseling program is designed to prepare graduates to work with addicted individuals and families addressing problems associated with chemical addictions.
This minor consists of 16 credits in Substance abuse courses, including four required courses and two electives. These courses meet the educational criteria for the Pennsylvania Certification Board, meaning that students who achieve this certificate may, after the required number of work hours, sit for the certification exam in Pennsylvania.
Related Minors
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- Gerontology Minor
- Addictions Counseling Minor
John Fabiseski is a person in Long Term Recovery. John's substance use condition has been in remission since January 26th, 2014. John is currently a Certified Recovery Specialist in the Administration of Luzerne County Community College for the AllOne Recovery Educational Institute. John is Region Three Lead for the Pennsylvania Recovery Advocacy Project and a Contracted Trainer for the Pennsylvania Recovery Organizations Alliance. John is also a current student pursuing a bachelor's degree in the Social Work Program at Misericordia University.
The Social Work Program at Misericordia University has provided me the opportunity to achieve my personal and educational goals. Of course, there are challenges as an adult learner that is working a full-time job, volunteering for policy change at the state and national level, and training other certified professionals across Pennsylvania. The guidance I received from the staff at Misericordia has permitted me to have an individualized pathway to success. The social work program has enlightened my learning while fostering my growth.
John Fabiseski
Accelerated BSW Student
Student Testimonials
It Starts At The Arch
Kendra Mattice
Kendra Mattice
The Social Work program pushes you to expand your knowledge inside and outside of the classroom. Through the program I have created friendships with peers and relationships with professors and field supervisors that I look forward to maintaining for many years to come.
Tim Kelly '17, BSW
Tim Kelly '17, BSW
What stands out to me in the Social Work program is that it is full of passionate faculty and eager students sharing the common ground of service and compassion to others. The staff know how to make the learning experience personable and professional.
Student Opportunities
Contact
Program Chair/Director
Phone: 570-674-6212
Email:
Trocaire building, Room 239