Find your social and behavioral sciences degrees at Carlow 

Carlow University offers a variety of social and behavioral science degree programs to prepare you for a career in social work or counseling. You will develop social work skills that can be translated into practice with individuals, families, organizations and communities, and learn the theories of human behavior related to how personality, environment and culture interact with one another to shape an individual.

Minor in Behavioral Health

In the Behavioral Health minor program, you will learn about the social work profession as you study the connection between behaviors and mental and physical well-being. You will learn how to develop cultural competence in working with diverse populations, explore the individual and community context of behavioral health, and learn about case management.

The minor is open to all majors. It particularly benefits students who pursue careers in social and behavioral sciences, political science, psychology, anthropology and sociology.

A Behavioral Health minor enriches all career choices. With this minor, you will be prepared to work in behavioral health organizations and in settings where behavioral health impacts clients and communities, such as in health care, education, criminal justice and advocacy.

Behavioral Health Minor curriculum

The minor required 18 credits. Two elective courses focus on topics such as practice with groups and families, crisis intervention and substance abuse. The forensic context will further prepare you to work in these areas.

Understanding humanity: History minor

You can supplement your interest in learning about the past with a History minor. You will uncover the value of history through research of recorded events, analysis of patterns and critical thinking in order to present the past, better understand contemporary problems and predict future challenges.
A minor in History is a perfect addition to comprehensive Liberal Studies and English majors.

History minor curriculum

This minor is open to any major. A minimum of 18 credits is required.

Dig into life’s important questions with a Philosophy minor

Studying for a philosophy minor, you will examine and ask the largest and most important of human questions concerning life and the nature of the universe. You will immerse yourself in a critical study of past and present systems of philosophic thought and learn to investigate the truths and principles pertaining to the nature of existence, knowledge, values and conduct. 

With its emphasis on language skills, critical thinking and abstract reasoning, the Philosophy minor has numerous practical applications. It complements majors such as Psychology or Education, and students majoring in Liberal Studies will find the Philosophy minor a superb addition to their other minors.

Philosophy minor curriculum

The minor requires 15 credits, including five courses in philosophy.

Improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree at Carlow University is designed to provide you with an understanding of human nature and cultural diversity. As a student in the program, you will participate in a one-year, agency-based field placement, a corresponding classroom seminar, and at least 50 hours of volunteer service. This will equip you with the hands-on experience you need to work through upper-level coursework and graduate with real-world experience. 

The program is concentrated in social work theory and practice with a foundation of liberal arts studies. Throughout the curriculum, you will develop entry-level social work skills that can be translated into practice with individuals, families, organizations, and communities.

Social work curriculum 

The social work curriculum includes:

Upon completion of selected courses, social work majors must proceed with an application process into the upper-level social work requirements. This process must be completed prior to registering for field placement. Every social work major is required to participate in a 450-hour agency-based field placement, as well as a corresponding classroom seminar.

Additional information is available in the University’s course catalog.

Quick facts

• Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Experienced professors who continue to practice social work in their areas of expertise
• Concentration in Healthcare Social Work, Crisis and Trauma, or Restorative Justice
• Minors offered in Healthcare Social Work, Behavioral Health, and Crisis and Trauma

Alternate degree completion options

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

3-Year Degree

Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation is responsible for developing accreditation standards that define competent preparation and ensuring that social work programs meet them. CSWE administers a multistep accreditation process that involves program self-studies, site visits, and reviews. Carlow University’s next accreditation visit will be in 2028.

Resources

• View or download the Bachelor of Social Work field manual [pdf]. It contains information and documents specific to the field placement component of the program  
• View or download theBachelor of Social Work program handbook [pdf]. It contains policies, procedures and information about the program
• View or download theAssessment of Student Learning Outcomes [pdf]. 

Admission requirements and application process

Social Work faculty

Kathryn Bonach, PhD, LSW, LPC Program Director, BSW Program, Associate Professor

Sheila Roth, PhD, LCSW Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Marsha Frank, PhD, LCSW Associate Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Jessica Friedrichs, MSW BSW Field Education Director, Assistant Professor

Kenneth Smythe-Leistico, EdD, MSW, LSW Field Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Carrie Stott, PhD, LSW Program Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Help assess, intervene and manage trauma

Build a foundation in theory and research pertaining to crisis, abuse, and trauma in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) with a concentration in Crisis and Trauma. The curriculum’s focus ranges from immediate crisis assessment, intervention, and management to more specific issues; child abuse prevention and treatment, intimate partner violence, and investigating the impact of trauma for individuals and families.

Crisis & Trauma curriculum

Students are to complete the major requirements as well as the following courses in crisis and trauma including the impact of trauma, crisis intervention, child abuse prevention and treatment and intimate partner violence. Prior to taking these courses, students complete the prerequisite of either “Introduction to Counseling” or “Theories and Methods of Direct Practice.”

With approval, transfer students may submit a transfer course for one of the above. A minimum of 9 credits in crisis and trauma must be taken at Carlow University.

Notable Courses

• The Impact of Trauma: This course introduces the student to the field of psychological trauma. The course will be composed of lectures, discussions, guest speakers and videos. It will provide the student with an understanding of the various types of trauma and treatment, trauma theory, the impact of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit, and the historical development of trauma as a clinical entity. Students will gain an appreciation of the depth of trauma and trauma reactions in the fields of social work and psychology.
• Crisis Intervention: An introduction to the various types of crisis situations practitioners may encounter. In addition, the course will offer various techniques and provide presentations on a variety of components needed to assist the student in understanding the concepts of crisis intervention. Crisis events can occur in a variety of ways, and as practitioners, how we deal with these events can make the difference between healing and hindrance. Emphasis will be upon a general understanding of the implications of techniques to modify, manage, and cope with crisis situations.
• Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment: This course is designed to familiarize students with child abuse in its multiple forms. Students will have the opportunity to learn the many signs and symptoms of child maltreatment that manifest in both childhood and adulthood, and will investigate poisonous pedagogy, open/closed family systems, and the impact of shame on our lives. Students will have an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the types of child abuse as well as the signs and behaviors associated with each type.

View Plan of Study

For a more detailed curriculum, view our course catalog, or request more information to talk to an admissions representative.

Alternate degree completion options

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

3-Year Degree

Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.

Accelerated

Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation is responsible for developing accreditation standards that define competent preparation and ensuring that social work programs meet them. CSWE administers a multistep accreditation process that involves program self-studies, site visits, and reviews. Carlow University’s next accreditation visit will be in 2028.

View or download the following for more information:

• View or download the Bachelor of Social Work field manual [pdf]: contains information and documents specific to the field placement component of the program  
• View or download the Bachelor of Social Work program handbook [pdf]: contains policies, procedures and information about the program
• View or download the Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes [pdf] 

Admission requirements and application process

Be prepared and confident in your career

Krista Burdett ’18 said the Carlow social work program challenged her to think like a social worker: from case studies to role-playing to writing a research paper. “When I entered the field after graduation, I felt confident in myself because I was fully prepared to handle situations. Now that I’m in the field, I reflect back to my course work to pull from competencies and skills I learned.”

Social Work faculty

Kathryn Bonach, PhD, LSW, LPC Program Director, BSW Program, Associate Professor

Sheila Roth, PhD, LCSW Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Marsha Frank, PhD, LCSW Associate Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Jessica Friedrichs, MSW BSW Field Education Director, Assistant Professor

Kenneth Smythe-Leistico, EdD, MSW, LSW Field Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Carrie Stott, PhD, LSW Program Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Minor in Crisis & Trauma

Study the various forms of crisis and trauma situations and how to support those in distress through this interdisciplinary minor with Psychology and Social Work. With a minor in Crisis and Trauma, you will focus on crisis situations that may be personal, such as death or assault or community-wide events such as natural disasters or threats to public health.

You will learn about the types of trauma, including acute, chronic and complex trauma as well as vicious or secondary trauma. You will gain an understanding of the physical, psychological and emotional symptoms of traumatic experiences to become better informed and ultimately a more competent professional in your career field of choice.

Crisis & trauma curriculum

The minor in Crisis and Trauma is offered to students who are not majoring in Psychology or Social Work. The coursework introduces students to the field of psychological trauma, different forms of abuse and violence, trauma responses and symptoms, and available treatment options and resources.

Elective courses include Psychology courses focused on children and on women, family counseling, substance abuse counseling, parenting, and death and dying.

This minor requires 18 credits.

Study theology at Carlow

You can study the mystery of human existence and the interdependence of women and men as they relate to God through Carlow University’s scholarly Theology minor program.

Theology examines the human experiences that have given rise to questions of religion such as the meaning of life and death, the existence of a personal God, the search for human values, issues of peace and justice, contemporary spirituality, and ministry of the laity. The Theology curriculum provides the discipline necessary for this unique way of inquiry through courses in scriptural, historical, systematic and moral theology, and pastoral ministry.

Theology minor curriculum

This minor is open to any major and can be customized to your interest. A minimum of 18 credits is required. 

Transform lives, transform your career.

The mission of the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program at Carlow University is to educate and prepare ethical, compassionate professionals committed to a more just and merciful world. The MSW program promotes a trauma and research informed approach to professional social work practice to promote human and societal well-being and human rights. The program is committed to preparing exemplary leaders to critically engage in service to and advocacy for diverse populations and complex systems using a cultural humility lens to promote racial, social, economic, and environmental justice.

Master of Social Work Program Specializations

Direct Practice

Macro Practice

Macro Practice specialization is designed to develop strengths-based and trauma-informed ethical leaders and managers of human services organizations and social change leaders who advance human well-being. Students are taught best practices for working with larger systems, including communities, organizations, and societies. 

The macro curriculum is grounded in a commitment to human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice. It is designed for students seeking a future in:

• human services leadership and management
• policy analysis and advocacy
• social change leadership at the local, state, and national levels

School Social Work

School Social Work specialization builds on key components of the MSW program’s direct practice track, teaching best practices for various assessment and intervention methods in working with individuals, families, and groups in schools and school-based settings.  

The school social work curriculum is grounded in the person-in-the-environment framework, trauma-informed approaches, human rights, and social and economic justice.

This specialization provides students with the knowledge and skills required for ethical leadership within:

• schools
• across larger educational programs and systems
• for policy practice related to public and private preschool, elementary, and secondary schools

The MSW program is also offered online.

Who can apply?

You do not need a BSW to enter the MSW Program.  People with a wide variety of undergraduate degrees can enter the MSW program to become a social worker.  Traditional MSW students can earn their MSW at Carlow by taking a minimum of 60 credits.

Advanced Standing track

If you already have a BSW from an CSWE-accredited program, you will qualify for application for advanced standing. This track allows you to complete this degree at Carlow in as few as 18 months (39 credits).

Students who have earned an undergraduate social work degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program within the past 7 years qualify for advanced standing status.  Advanced standing students are able to earn their MSW at Carlow by taking a minimum of 39- credits (an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above is required for advanced standing status).

Be supported at Carlow

What stood out for MSW graduate Brandy Patterson ’20 was how supportive Carlow’s faculty and staff were, especially in the Social Work Program. “I always felt like I was able to reach out to whomever I needed at the time to get the help that I needed. If I were to give a yelp review for the Masters of Social Work program I would say it is very supportive and flexible which is great for adult students. You will never feel alone or lost in this program.”

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

*Summer start is possible for advanced standing only

MSW faculty

Learn from world-class faculty devoted to your future success who are actively practicing and publishing in the discipline. Our six full-time faculty have a combined total of 100+ years of experience in the practice of teaching or in the field of social work 

Kathryn Bonach, PhD, LSW, LPC Program Director, BSW Program, Associate Professor

Sheila Roth, PhD, LCSW Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Marsha Frank, PhD, LCSW Associate Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Jessica Friedrichs, MSW BSW Field Education Director, Assistant Professor

Kenneth Smythe-Leistico, EdD, MSW, LSW Field Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Carrie Stott, PhD, LSW Program Director, Assistant Professor, Social Work (MSW)

Understand the cultural history of gendered experiences: Minor in Women’s & Gender Studies

With the Women’s and Gender Studies minor, you can explore the historical condition of women and the interpretation of women and gender in the various disciplines. You will come to understand the present and future position of women in society and issues of intersectionality, such as race, gender, social class and sexuality. With this minor, you will be equipped to debate gendered situations today.

A minor in Women’s and Gender Studies is valuable in careers in advocacy, social services-related occupations, community development and government. 

Women’s and Gender Studies curriculum

The Women’s and Gender Studies minor requires three courses and three electives totaling 18 credits.