Overview

The Social Work programme at Portland State University provides a comprehensive foundation in social justice, community collaboration, and professional relationship building. This CSWE-accredited major integrates rigorous academic coursework with practical field experience to ensure graduates are prepared to support diverse populations. Students join a supportive cohort-based environment that emphasises equity and advocacy within the human services sector.

Why Social Work at Portland State University?

Portland State University hosts the only public, CSWE-accredited undergraduate major in this field within Oregon. The programme is highly regarded, with rankings among the best in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. Students benefit from a practice-informed curriculum delivered by world-class faculty, many of whom are first-generation graduates and seasoned professionals with extensive regional networks.

The School of Social Work utilises a cohort-based model that fosters a deep sense of belonging among a diverse student body, including veterans, adult learners, and BIPOC students. This structure encourages the sharing of varied perspectives and a collective commitment to social change. Additionally, the dedicated Practicum Education team assists students in securing meaningful internships within government agencies and non-profit organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary for effective advocacy. Modules may include:

Social Work
Practicum Education
Social Justice
Human Rights
Community Collaboration
Equity and Advocacy

Careers with Social Work

Graduates from Portland State University are equipped for immediate entry into the workforce or for pursuing advanced standing in Master of Social Work (MSW) programmes. The hands-on nature of the degree prepares students for various roles in mental health, housing, and education. Common career paths include:

Case manager
Child welfare worker
Community health worker
Family support specialist
Housing program coordinator
Mental health assistant
Substance abuse specialist

Alumni frequently secure positions with prominent employers such as the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Portland Public Schools, and various local government bodies. Many others find success within community health organisations and regional non-profits, applying their skills to create immediate positive impacts in their communities.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 2011.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Social Work

Oppression and Privilege

Advocacy for Policy Change

Social Justice Practice

Human Behavior Through the Lifespan

Social Work Practice

Field Seminar

Social Research and Evaluation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-08-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Social Work View 779 other Bachelors in Social Work in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Social Work.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Accreditation

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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