Bachelor of Social Work

Undergraduate
On Ground
120 hours
4 years

Our Mission

The social work program equips students through a Christ-centered liberal arts education to serve individuals, families and communities with compassion, competence, and integrity. Grounded in faith, the program equips students to steward their knowledge, skills and gifts in the pursuit of human flourishing and social well-being. Through academic excellence, experiential learning and a commitment to service, students are prepared to advocate for and empower vulnerable and marginalized populations. They are also equipped to strengthen communities and humbly respond to human needs with hope.

Make a Difference in the Lives of Others

A Bachelor of Social Work prepares you to turn your passion for helping others into a meaningful career. As a social worker, you can serve individuals, families, children and communities in multiple settings. You might serve in a hospital, school, mental or behavioral health agency, child and family services, a nonprofit, community organization or faith-based ministries. 

You’ll develop the knowledge and skills to advocate for vulnerable populations, connect people with vital resources, strengthen families, and help individuals and communities thrive. Whether you’re called to direct practice, community service, advocacy, or further graduate study, a BSW equips you to use your gifts and professional skills to bring hope, healing, and positive change to those you serve.

That’s what I want for the students to be prepared for: when the call comes, that they are not necessarily prepared, but they are competent.
Dr. Kathy Helpenstill, DSW, MSW, LCSW

Social Work Program Director

Consider a Minor in Child Advocacy

The Child Advocacy minor offers a menu of cross-disciplinary studies with a focus related to the specific needs of children in the areas of advocacy as well as welfare.

Students with majors in any department, including Behavioral Sciences, Applied Human Sciences, Education, Nursing, and Communication Sciences and Disorders, may earn the Child Advocacy minor. Students must earn at least nine credit hours outside of their major department as well as nine credit hours at the 3000-level or above.

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Quotes From Our Alumni

"My knowledge, heart, and skill set have grown so much thanks to the professors in this department and have instilled in me the confidence to do what I feel I was called to do."

Makenna Gibbs, Class of 2022

"Harding’s program is not only an incredible launching pad into the professional world, but also a beautiful support system to learn back on, even post-graduation."

Audra Crisler, Class of 2022

"In reflecting on my time at Harding, I cannot express the level of excellence, care, and support I received during my time in the social work program. I give my highest recommendation for pursuing a social work degree from Harding University."

Susannah Ayers, Class of 2020

Catalog and Cost

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