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Welcome to Social Work, which is a profession of helpers, especially for those most in need. Social workers not only help individuals, they also work to advance human rights and social justice. 

Master level social workers are the largest group of mental health service providers (e.g. therapists). Per the National Association of Social Workers (NASW),  professional social workers are found in every facet of community life—in schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, senior centers, elected office, private practices, prisons, military, corporations, and in numerous public and private agencies that serve individuals and families in need. Many also serve as social and community service directors.

We are fortunate to be housed within a Franciscan university that places value on the diversity of all living things and our environment, service to the vulnerable and oppressed, human rights, critical thinking, and the dignity of others which aligns with the NASW Code of Ethics. Our curriculum is designed to ground students in theory, develop skills and bring real world social work practice into the classroom.  

Want to make a difference in the world? Learn more about our undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Bachelor of social work (BSW)

Baccalaureate Social Work (BSW) education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values for a professional helping career in a variety of roles that can include case manager, advocate, counselor, community organizer, etc. These can be in a variety of settings such as criminal justice, child welfare, elder services, housing support, adults with disabilities, substance use, and the list goes on.  

Master of social Work (MSW)

Siena’s MSW program provides a rigorous education that prepares graduates for practice with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations. The advanced clinical classes equip students with the tools to deliver effective, compassionate care that fosters healing and positive outcomes for clients across various contexts grounded in theoretical knowledge and self-awareness. Mezzo and macro practice courses challenge students to develop essential leadership skills, learn the fundamentals of grant writing and fundraising, understand dimensions of oppression in the U.S., and prepares students with conflict resolution and mediation skills to navigate sensitive topics and advance human rights. 

Siena’s Social Work Department offers students:
  • A commitment to coursework that is engaging and challenges students to grow their professional skills 

  • Cohort learning where students build a network of peers and ability to work closely with members of the department. 

  • Experiential learning that builds students’ resume and prepares them for the workforce and/or graduate education

  • Faculty with a range of professional experience and expertise in micro, mezzo and macro settings

  • Curriculum grounded in the Council of Social Work Education’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards and the NASW Code of Ethics.

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READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT AS A SOCIAL WORK SAINT?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment projections for Social Work from 2021-31 is 708,100.

Siena has a streamlined application process and straight forward admissions requirements.  

Hear From Our Saints

Our Saints have a lot to say about their time at Siena and their experience in the Social Work Program. 

Cynthia Bott

BSW Program Director, Department Chair, Professor of Social Work