BA Arts and Markets
The Bachelor of Arts in Arts and Markets at Hawaii Pacific University is designed to bl...
BSW Social Work
Honolulu, Hawaii
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is designed to prepare students for professional practice in social work and related fields. This program provides a strong foundation in social work principles, ethics, and practice methods, equipping students to address complex social issues and support individuals, families, and communities. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the BSW program at HPU aims to produce competent social work professionals ready to make a meaningful impact in various social service settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSW program at HPU combines core social work courses with practical field experience. Core courses include Introduction to Social Work, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, Social Work Practice Methods, and Social Work Research. Students also engage in specialized courses such as Social Welfare Policy, Diversity and Social Justice, and Clinical Social Work. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of social work theories, methods, and ethical practices, while also incorporating hands-on learning through field placements. These field placements allow students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world social work settings, gaining practical experience and professional skills.
Research Focus: HPU’s BSW program emphasizes research as a critical component of social work practice. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects that explore various aspects of social work, including community needs, policy analysis, and intervention effectiveness. Faculty-led research often focuses on issues such as social justice, mental health, and child welfare. Students have opportunities to participate in research activities, which help them develop critical thinking and analytical skills while contributing to the advancement of social work knowledge.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key element of the BSW program at HPU. The program offers numerous opportunities for students to connect with professionals in the field through internships, field placements, and networking events. Students gain hands-on experience in social service agencies, community organizations, and healthcare settings, where they apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges. Guest lectures, workshops, and collaborations with local social work practitioners further enhance students' understanding of current practices and career opportunities in social work.
Global Perspective: The BSW program at HPU incorporates a global perspective, reflecting the importance of understanding social work within an international context. Coursework and activities address global social issues, cross-cultural practice, and international social work policies. Study abroad programs and partnerships with international organizations provide students with opportunities to explore social work practices in different countries, broadening their perspective on global social challenges and solutions.
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 31440
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 100 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) offers various scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are intended to help ease the financial burden of higher education and are awarded based on a range of criteria, including academic achievement, financial need, and specific program requirements.
HPU International Scholarship: HPU provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students based on their academic performance and potential. The HPU International Scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and have strong potential for success in their chosen field of study. This scholarship can significantly reduce the cost of tuition and other academic expenses.
Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards offered by HPU. It is designed for high-achieving international students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities. This scholarship is highly competitive and offers substantial financial support to help cover tuition fees and other related costs.
Need-Based Scholarships: HPU also offers need-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships are intended to provide additional support to students who require financial assistance to meet their educational expenses. Eligibility for these scholarships is determined through a review of the student’s financial situation and academic performance.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic programs at HPU may have their own scholarship opportunities for international students. These program-specific scholarships are awarded based on criteria related to the student’s field of study, research interests, or professional goals. Students are encouraged to check with their specific program department for available scholarships and application procedures.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program from Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) are well-prepared to enter various fields within social services and community support. The comprehensive training provided by the program equips students with the necessary skills to address diverse social issues and support individuals, families, and communities effectively.
Social Worker: BSW graduates often work as social workers in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and community agencies. In this role, they assist clients in navigating social services, provide counseling and support, and work to resolve issues related to mental health, substance abuse, and family dynamics.
Case Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as case managers, where they coordinate and manage care for clients with complex needs. They work with individuals and families to develop care plans, connect them with necessary resources, and monitor their progress.
Child Welfare Specialist: BSW graduates may work as child welfare specialists, focusing on the protection and well-being of children and families. This role involves assessing and addressing child abuse and neglect, working with foster care systems, and advocating for children’s rights.
Community Outreach Coordinator: In this role, graduates work to engage and support communities by developing and implementing outreach programs. They may work for non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies to address social issues and promote community health.
Mental Health Counselor: With additional training, BSW graduates can work as mental health counselors, providing therapeutic services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. They may work in mental health clinics, private practice, or community organizations.
Substance Abuse Counselor: Graduates interested in addiction services can pursue careers as substance abuse counselors. They work with individuals struggling with addiction, providing counseling, support, and resources to help them achieve and maintain sobriety.
School Social Worker: In educational settings, BSW graduates can work as school social workers, addressing students’ social and emotional needs, supporting academic success, and collaborating with teachers and parents to create a positive school environment.
Public Health Worker: The program also prepares graduates for roles in public health, where they work to improve community health through program development, health education, and policy advocacy.
Policy Analyst: With experience and further education, BSW graduates may become policy analysts, working to develop, analyze, and advocate for social policies that impact various populations and improve social welfare systems.
