Carver School of Social Work

The Carver School of Social Work at Campbellsville University prepares compassionate, skilled social workers ready to make a difference in communities. With a focus on social justice, ethics, and hands-on experience, our program combines academic excellence with practical application. Led by faculty with real-world expertise, we equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the challenges faced by individuals and families, preparing them to lead with empathy and professionalism.

 

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Associate Program:

The Associate of Science in Social Services at Campbellsville University provides students with a solid foundation in social work, preparing them for a variety of entry-level roles in social service agencies, healthcare settings, and nonprofit organizations. This program emphasizes practical skills, including case management, advocacy, and working with diverse populations, and is designed to equip students with the knowledge needed to address the challenges faced by individuals and communities. Whether you plan to continue your education or step into the workforce, this program is the perfect start to a meaningful career in social services.

Degree Offered At: CU Online

Certificate Program:

The Certificate in Addiction Recovery at Campbellsville University is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to support individuals struggling with addiction. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the recovery process, including counseling techniques, case management, and ethical practices. Students will gain practical experience and the tools needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by addiction. Whether you're looking to enhance your career or begin a new path in the addiction recovery field, this certificate offers the foundation needed to succeed in this vital area of social services.

Degree Offered At: CU Online

Bachelor Program:

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Campbellsville University prepares students for a rewarding career in social work by providing a strong foundation in theory and practice. Students will gain essential skills in case management, advocacy, and ethical practice, while learning to work with individuals, families, and communities. Through hands-on field placements and engaging coursework, students are equipped to address social issues, advocate for social justice, and make a meaningful impact in diverse settings. The BSW program emphasizes a Christian perspective, ensuring graduates are prepared to serve with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to improving the well-being of others.

Degree Offered At: Campbellsville, Harrodsburg, and Somerset, & CU Online

Master Programs:

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Campbellsville University is designed for those ready to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Offered in both on-campus and fully online formats, this program prepares students for advanced social work practice with a focus on leadership, ethics, and diverse populations. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on field placements, you’ll gain the skills needed to tackle complex social issues and lead positive change in various settings.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) - Online Advanced Standing Track at Campbellsville University is designed for students who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and wish to fast-track their graduate education. This fully online program provides the flexibility to balance work, life, and academics while advancing your social work career. Students in the Advanced Standing track can complete the program in as little as one year, gaining expertise in clinical practice, policy, and social justice advocacy. The MSW program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for leadership roles in diverse social service settings.

 

At Campbellsville University, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and supportive education for future social workers. Here are a few reasons why CU is the right choice for your social work education:

  • Accredited Programs: Our Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring a high-quality curriculum that meets national standards.

  • Experienced Faculty: Learn from faculty who are licensed professionals with real-world experience. Our instructors are dedicated to providing personalized mentorship and preparing you for a successful career in social work.

  • Hands-On Training: Gain practical experience through internships and field placements that allow you to apply your classroom knowledge to real-world situations, ensuring you're career-ready upon graduation.

  • Supportive Community: At CU, you'll be part of a close-knit, faith-based community that values student success and offers strong support throughout your educational journey.

  • Flexibility: With options like online, on-campus, and hybrid programs, we offer flexible learning formats that fit your lifestyle and professional commitments.

At Campbellsville University, you’ll receive a high-quality education that equips you with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to make a positive impact in the field of social work.

  • Social Worker
    Social workers help individuals, families, and communities navigate life’s challenges, providing emotional support, resources, and intervention strategies.
  • Clinical Social Worker
    These professionals provide mental health therapy and counseling, helping clients manage emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues in settings such as hospitals or private practices.
  • School Social Worker
    School social workers support students, teachers, and families by addressing mental health concerns, bullying, and academic challenges, while promoting a positive school environment.
  • Healthcare Social Worker
    Healthcare social workers assist patients and their families in navigating medical, emotional, and financial challenges within healthcare settings like hospitals or nursing homes.
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
    Specializing in addiction, these social workers help individuals struggling with substance abuse by providing therapy, resources, and support to promote recovery.
  • Family Social Worker
    Family social workers assist families in crisis, providing support through counseling, resource management, and helping families cope with issues like divorce, abuse, or domestic violence.
  • Child Welfare Social Worker
    These professionals work to protect children from abuse or neglect, often investigating cases and working with families to provide a safer environment.
  • Gerontological Social Worker
    Gerontological social workers focus on the elderly population, providing support and services to help seniors live healthy, independent lives.
  • Social Work Administrator
    These social workers manage social service agencies or programs, overseeing operations and ensuring they deliver effective services to clients.
  • Community Social Worker
    Community social workers focus on improving community resources, organizing programs, and advocating for social justice issues to create positive community change.

Campbellsville University’s social work program began in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, accredited by regional organizations but not yet by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program was phased out in 1989. In 1994, due to community demand and institutional support, the program was revived with the goal of achieving national accreditation.

The program entered CSWE candidacy in 1998 and received initial accreditation in 2001. Students graduating during the candidacy period (1998-2001) were also recognized as graduates of a CSWE-accredited program. In 1997, Campbellsville University acquired the Carver School of Church Social Work from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, renaming it the Carver School of Social Work and integrating its Christian mission.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program has expanded to include main campus, Harrodsburg extension, and fully online options. It was reaffirmed in 2021 and will seek further reaffirmation in 2029. In 2008, the Master of Social Work (MSW) program was established and earned CSWE accreditation in 2012. The MSW program, now fully online, was reaffirmed in 2024 and will seek reaffirmation in 2032.

Today, the Carver School of Social Work remains dedicated to preparing students to advocate for social justice with a Christian servant leadership perspective, empowering them to make a positive impact in diverse communities.

 

Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep): 

The Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep) program is designed to help undergraduate social work students jumpstart their careers in child welfare. It provides a combination of tuition coverage, a stipend, and hands-on training to ensure students succeed in this vital field. Through field placements and real-world experience, students gain practical skills in case management, advocacy, and trauma-informed care, preparing them for impactful careers in child welfare. CW Prep aims to support and train the next generation of professionals committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Learn more about the Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep) program on the official website.

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Applications are Due in Fall by October 15th or in Spring by April 15th.

For any questions, please contact Carver School of Social Work's CW Prep Director, Dr. DeNika VanCleave at advancleave@campbellsville.edu.

 

Questions?

The team behind Campbellsville University’s Carver School of Social Work program is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need more information about our program, admissions process, or career opportunities, we’re just a message away.

Don’t hesitate to reach out via email at cssw@campbellsville.edu. We’re excited to help you take the next step in your journey to becoming a social worker!