School of Social Work

Photo of three students — Support, advocate, influence positive change

The primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet basic and complex needs of all people, with a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. If you’re looking for a career with meaning, action, diversity, satisfaction, and a variety of options, consider social work.

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The School of Social Work at WMU is home to high-quality bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. The curriculum is focused on social, economic, and environmental justice and is rooted in evidence-based practice. Courses are offered in two locations - Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. We educate social workers to advocate for social and economic justice and personal well-being for all people. Our faculty provides leadership on a local, national and international level through research, scholarship, community service and partnerships, and other creative activities relevant to the profession.

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96%

of social work graduates are employed or continuing their education

-2023/2024 Career Outcomes Report

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100%

of social work graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

-2023/2024 Career Outcomes Report

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96%

of Broncos had instructors who made them excited about learning

-2023/2024 Career Outcomes Report

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Undergraduate programs

Bachelor of Social Work

Western Michigan University's undergraduate professional program is designed to prepare you for beginning generalist social work practice and to prepare for graduate programs in social work and related professions.

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Minor in Social Work

WMU students with other majors can obtain a 15-hour minor in social work. This minor allows you to learn about the profession, about social justice, and some basic interpersonal skills that will be helpful in any profession.

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Graduate Program

Master of Social Work

The graduate professional program in social work at Western Michigan University prepares you for direct-service and leadership positions in the field of social welfare. Multiple concentrations and specializations allow you to customize your program to meet your needs.

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News and Updates

A photo of students in their graduation regalia taking a photo with a professor by Miller Fountain.

Broncos charging ahead in the workforce, according to latest report

Faculty-led India trip is interdisciplinary, international by design

Social work professor secures Fulbright Specialist award

International Partnerships

Study at our partner universities around the world during your BSW or MSW program and pay only WMU tuition. Consider studying for a semester or year at:

Rajagiri College of Social Sciences in Kerala, India in Social Work and engage with social entrepreneurship and non-governmental organizations
University Autonomo de Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico to study refugee and human rights in social work practice

Part-time instructors

For information on part-time instructor opportunities, follow the link to our Jobs page.

Jobs page

External job posting

To learn how to advertise your job opening with our alumni and community, follow the link for directions.

External job posting directions