Undergraduate Programs
Both majors require admission to the program. Both Child and Family Studies (CFS) and Baccalaureate Social Work (BSW) prepare students for professional service careers by combining classroom and practicum learning that assist students with workforce readiness. Both undergraduate degree programs have strong curricular commitments to cultural diversity and social justice and share professional values, core curriculum and faculty.
Some FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
What are the differences between the School’s two undergraduate programs?
Child and Family Studies is an interdisciplinary major, with a focus on children, youth and families, preparing students for careers in the field of education as well as social and human services. Social Work is a professional education program, with commitments to populations at risk along the life span. A BSW degree prepares graduates to work in a wide variety of public and private sector human services organizations.
How do the two programs prepare undergraduates for a profession in a service career?
The Child and Family Studies professional preparation uses the integrative tool of a portfolio that ties together students academic, skill based and experiential learning. The BSW program uses the practicum and integrative seminar with the companion generalist practice course to ground students in the values, knowledge and skills of professional social work.
Is practicum the same for CFS and for BSW students?
There are three practicums in Child and Family Studies, and students may begin these community based learning experiences early in their program. CFS students have lots of input and flexibility in their practicum choices. The total hours of practicum is 300. The BSW practicum is taken in the senior year of the program and is highly structured, requiring a year-long companion course, a total of 500 hours in a single agency, and a field instructor who meets accreditation requirements. Student input is an important part of a collaborative selection process, but social work faculty are responsible for the field placement assignment to ensure curriculum and accreditation requirements are met.
What does accreditation mean?
The BSW program has applied for initial accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education and is meeting the standards of its professional accrediting body. The Child and Family Studies Program is not required to meet any external accreditation standards other than those all departments uphold as part of the University’s accreditation.
Are admissions different for the two undergraduate programs?
Child and Family Studies, established in 1994, is a popular, rapidly growing program at PSU that admits approximately 30 students fall, winter and spring terms. The BSW program is a newly developed program that will admit an annual cohort of 30-40 students each spring. The first classes begin fall term 2008.
How can an interested applicant decide between these two programs?
For specific program information see Child and Family Studies or Bachelor in Social Work (BSW). The faculty and staff in each program area will advise you towards an admissions strategy that meets your needs.
