Students in a social work class. Fredonia students can major in social work, earning a degree in social work while they major in social work

Social Work Program at Fredonia

What we offer

Bachelor of Science

Who to contact

Sociocultural and Justice Sciences

Sociocultural.Justice@fredonia.edu

716-673-3205

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Social Work Changes Lives

At the State University of New York at Fredonia, our Bachelor of Science in Social Work program is dedicated to nurturing compassionate, skilled professionals ready to make a meaningful impact in the world. Guided by a mission rooted in the principles of service, social justice, and human relationships, our program prepares you to meet the diverse needs of today’s society through hands-on learning and innovative instruction.

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on the world? Fredonia’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about becoming a force for positive change.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Real-World Experience: From day one, you’ll engage in real-life classroom experiences, preparing you to be an effective social worker in a complex and diverse society.
  • Accredited Program: Fredonia’s Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program qualifies you for advanced standing admission to graduate programs.
  • Ethical Practice: Learn to integrate the NASW Code of Ethics into your work, making decisions that prioritize service, justice, and respect.
  • Cultural Competency: Engage in culturally competent social work practice, understanding and addressing the needs of diverse populations.
  • Commitment to Social Justice: Be part of a program that actively fights social injustice and empowers communities.
  • Holistic Education: Build a foundation in liberal arts while mastering core competencies required for generalist social work practice.

Career Opportunities for Social Work

  • Chief of Behavioral Health Services
  • Clinical Social Worker
  • Family Mediator
  • Human Services Program Director
  • Public Health Social Worker
  • Victim Advocate
  • Clinical Director
  • Executive Director
  • Foster Care Clinician
  • Psychiatric Care Coordinator
  • Social Work Consultant
  • Workshop and Training Facilitator

SOC 218 Introduction to Social Work

Introduction to theoretical and practical foundations of social work. Examination of values, knowledge, and skills underlying a generalist approach to social work. Analysis of role of social workers in such settings as hospitals, schools, mental health agencies, and family and child welfare agencies.

SOCW 249 Social Welfare Institutions

Introduces students to the basic public and private sector mechanisms of social welfare policy and services through the lens of history. The importance of values/attitudes/beliefs in the political process and the concept of social justice are analyzed. The development of the social work profession is featured.

POLI 382 Social Welfare Policy

Examination of the politics and operation of the social welfare system in the United States. Emphasis on a policy analysis of current social welfare issues such as the Social Security crisis, welfare reform, the relationship between welfare and national economic policy, the functions of public welfare versus private charity, and the connections between direct service and social reform.

It's Different Here

High Placement

Fredonia alumni thrive in prestigious grad schools. Prepare to join their ranks.

15-20 Hours

Per week in internships provides every student with real-world experience.

16%

A Growing Field

Employment of social workers is projected to grow 16% through 2026.

people at a professional meeting. A social work major can lead to an interesting and rewarding career.

Clinical Director

Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers.

  • Median Salary: $110,680 per year
  • Job Outlook 2023-2033: 29% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics
woman at laptop. Social work degree seeking students develop skills useful in many fields.

Human Services Program Director

Social and community service managers coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being.

  • Median Salary: $77,030 per year
  • Job Outlook 2023-2033: 8% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Woman at computer. Social work programs like the one at SUNY Fredonia help students find jobs helping others.

Family Mediator

Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators facilitate negotiation and dialogue between disputing parties to help resolve conflicts outside of the court system.

  • Median Salary: $71,540 per year
  • Job Outlook 2023-2033: 6% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics

Why Social Work at Fredonia?

apple on books. Students pursuing a degree in social work get excellent internship experience at SUNY Fredonia.

Real-World Experience

From schools to prisons, intern where it matters. Build your resume, change lives.

student with laptop. Fredonia social work degree students are mentored by seasoned faculty.

Mentored by Experts

Faculty from diverse backgrounds fast-track your social work expertise.

Calculator and notes. Students who pursue a social work major get hands-on experience in conducting research.

Research as an Undergrad

Conduct cutting-edge studies typically reserved for PhDs. Shape social work's future before you graduate.

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