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Sophie Breslow ‘24, now an MSW candidate, credits the Learning Resource Program for her successful college experience and preparing her to support other neurodivergent students navigating their own college journeys.
Undergraduate Social Work Program
Join one of the highest-ranked social work degree programs in the country, designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in social work.
Why Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work?
With a bachelor’s degree in social work, commonly referred to as a BSW degree, you will learn the knowledge, values, and skills to be an effective social worker. With a BSW from Adelphi in New York, your career options are limitless. You will be able to provide professional services (i.e. case management and crisis intervention) to those in need. You can join the illustrious ranks of social workers in hospitals, schools, child welfare, senior centers, community organizing, policy making and policy advocacy.
Why Be a Social Work Major at Adelphi University in New York on Long Island?
- Learn in small classes taught by our world-class faculty, who will guide you academically and professionally.
- Gain a deep understanding of social issues through our innovative curriculum, emphasizing hands-on learning in real-world community settings.
- Graduate career-ready after two years of valuable internship experiences in the New York area.
- As a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school, students with a BSW are eligible to obtain their MSW in one year with 30 credits through the Advanced Standing Program.
- Save on tuition with a generous Social Work Scholarship or Merit Transfer Scholarship. Awards range as high as $18,000 annually if you qualify.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work?
As a social worker, you can work in mental health, addictions, healthcare facilities, schools, shelters, domestic violence prevention programs, forensics, the criminal justice system, legal aid, community centers, legislative agencies, advocacy groups, programs for immigrants and refugees, and many more career options. Our social work degree program will give you the confidence and knowledge to pursue a wide variety of careers that fit your personal goals and career aspirations.
Stravroula Kyriakakis, PhD inspiring a classroom full of future social workers.
Adelphi Partners With Suffolk Community College to Offer Bachelor's Degree in Social Work
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Published:
Adelphi University has forged an innovative partnership with Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) to expand access to its nationally recognized social work program to eastern Long Island starting this fall.
92%*
* based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
of our baccalaureate graduates say that Adelphi University increased their intellectual curiosity, ability and potential
based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
$58,380*
* Bureau of Labor Statistics
the median annual salary for social workers, reflecting a rewarding career with significant impact.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Prior to Adelphi, I was a regular volunteer, but I didn’t think about becoming a world changer. My mentors helped me realize that I was not a dot in a sea of uncontrollable circumstances—that I can create what I need to create for myself and others. I learned that loving something means challenging it.
Florie St. Aime ’11, MSW ’13
Trainer at Global Trauma Research Inc., Co-facilitator, at Radical Social Workers Clinical Workgroup
Social Work Minor and Degree Paths
The Social Work Transfer Program
A convenient evening BSW program for social work undergraduates. Its flexible model accommodates you if you’re changing fields to pursue a career in social work, and you may be eligible for 10 work/life credits.
Child Development and Family Studies Minor
You can follow your interest without the additional work of a second major. The School of Social Work offers an interdisciplinary minor in child and family studies.
Exceptional Hands-On Learning with our BSW in New York
Studying social work at Adelphi is a hands-on experience. Before graduating you’ll complete 700 hours of fieldwork and follow in the footsteps of fellow Adelphi alums who held internships at some of the top human services organizations in the New York area, including:
BSW Degree Program Info
Courses & Requirements
Application Requirements for Our BSW Degree
To apply for this undergraduate social work program, submit the appropriate application requirements:
Transfer Student Admission Requirements
The application process for all transfer students wishing to enter the traditional BSW program and Social Work Transfer Program will include submission of:
- An application including transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended
- A current resume
- An Interview with the Undergraduate Director/ Site Director (only if deemed necessary)
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Overall GPA 2.5
- 60 approved college credits (exceptions will be reviewed by the Undergraduate Director) to enter into the Junior Year
- Demonstrated motivation and capacity to work with people
- Personal Values congruent with the NASW Code of Ethics
- Experience in human services (highly desirable)
Transformative Educational Opportunities
All undergraduate social work majors in the social work program have the opportunity to apply for the following programs to expand their educational landscape:
- The Honors College – fostering intellectual perspectives and critical skills
- Levermore Global Scholars – preparing students to become global thinkers and leaders
- Study Abroad – providing opportunities to experience another culture and see the world from a new perspective
FAQs About a Social Work Degree
Social workers strive to improve the lives of others in a variety of settings–from schools and residential care facilities to outpatient clinics–by analyzing complex problems and situations and identifying the best way forward.
For instance, they may counsel victims of domestic violence or advocate for policy changes to address racial inequities. Child, family or school social workers specialize in improving the well-being of children and their families. Social and community managers address problems like homelessness, substance abuse and hunger. Healthcare social workers advise patients adjusting to an illness or injury as they manage lifestyle changes or traumatic experiences. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors provide a holistic perspective as they guide people who have problems with substance abuse through a recovery plan.
Salaries will vary by specialization, but the average social worker salary exceeds the national salary for all occupations. For more insights on pay, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Awards & Recognition
Council on Social Work Education
Adelphi’s baccalaureate and master’s social work programs have earned accreditation from the prestigious Council on Social Work Education since 1951, reflecting the institution’s steadfast pursuit of excellence and adherence to rigorous educational benchmarks.
CSWE Accredited
Colleges of Distinction: Military Support
Adelphi is named as a stand-out institution dedicated to helping veterans overcome their obstacles and achieve success.
Top-Ranked for Military
Wall Street Journal/College Pulse
Adelphi is the highest-ranked university on Long Island in the 2025 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Best Colleges. It also ranks #7 in New York, with outstanding scores for student outcomes including graduation rate and salary impact.
Ranked one of the best
U.S. News & World Report
Adelphi University has been named a Best College among National Universities for seven consecutive years. Adelphi remains the top-ranked private university on Long Island.
A Best College
Princeton Review
The Princeton Review has ranked Adelphi University among the Best Northeastern Colleges based on academic offerings and career preparation for students, campus policies, initiatives and activities.
Best Northeastern College
Military Friendly® Schools
Adelphi University earned a 2024-2025 Military Friendly® School with a Silver ranking — reflecting our strong commitment to supporting our military and veteran students.
Our Military Friendly Rating
BSW Program Contact
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LMSW
Contact-
Social Work Building 225
Location
Nexus Building First Floor
Hours
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