Social Work Sacred Heart University

Overview

The Social Work programme at Sacred Heart University provides a comprehensive professional foundation for students dedicated to promoting human dignity and social justice. This degree equips undergraduates with the essential skills and ethical framework required for competent entry-level generalist practice in diverse settings.

The curriculum is built upon an anti-racist foundation, challenging students to engage with community and political concerns. By understanding the systemic causes of human suffering, learners are prepared to intervene effectively at individual, community, and global levels. The department emphasises a vanguard model of integrated practice.

Small class sizes ensure that students receive personalised attention from dedicated faculty members who are experienced practitioners.

Why Social Work at Sacred Heart University?

The institution is noted by the Council on Social Work Education for its innovative model of integrated practice. Students gain extensive field experience, spending three semesters as interns in practicum agencies. This involves 575 hours of supervised work to develop practical skills under professional guidance.

Global educational opportunities are a distinctive feature, with options for coursework in India, Ireland, and Costa Rica. These experiences broaden perspectives on international social welfare. Additionally, students can join the Social Work Club or the XiXi Chapter of Phi Alpha, the National Social Work Honor Society.

The university offers seamless dual degree pathways for high-achieving students to transition from undergraduate to graduate study. This includes options for a Master of Social Work with advanced standing. Such pathways allow students to fast-track their careers and move directly into specialised professional roles.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 26045 per semester
• National fee: USD 26045 per semester
• Local fee: USD 25042 per semester

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Social Welfare Policy and Services
• Human Behaviour in the Social Environment
• Social Work Practice
• Human Diversity and Social Justice
• Social Work Research

Careers with Social Work

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in casework, community organising, and social advocacy. The programme provides the necessary training for administration and economic advocacy positions. Many alumni secure employment in public and private social services, child welfare, and healthcare sectors.

Opportunities also exist in mental healthcare, human rights initiatives, and community development. Some graduates pursue careers in political campaigning or elder care. The rigorous training ensures that students are ready to advocate for vulnerable populations across micro, mezzo, and macro levels of society.

Many students continue their academic journey at prestigious institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and the University of Michigan. The foundation provided at the undergraduate level serves as an excellent springboard for advanced clinical or community practice research at the doctoral level.