JSU College of Public Service

The mission of the Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) Program is to prepare competent generalist entry-level social work professionals. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values and ethics that are required to meet the challenges and needs faced by diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities in a changing, global social environment. The B.S.W. Program seeks to prepare students to become leaders in enhancing the quality of life and seeking solutions to social problems. It is particularly concerned with the consequences of injustice, and thus focuses on the empowerment of at-risk populations and the advancement of social, economic, and political justice in all communities. The B.S.W. Program is especially committed to increasing students’ understanding and appreciation of diverse life experiences. While guiding both traditional and nontraditional students from varied backgrounds toward professional careers in social work, the program seeks to provide special support and sensitivity to students with the potential for success in this field. In fulfilling its mission, the undergraduate program supports and assists the missions of Jackson State University, the College of Public Service, and the School of Social Work.

for entry-level professional careers as generalist practitioners and leaders in social work and social services;
to develop a professional identity that incorporates the knowledge, skills, and values and ethics of the social work profession;
for competent social work practice with diverse populations of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities;
who are sensitive to issues of oppression and discrimination and equipped with strategies to advance social, economic, and political justice; and
for graduate education.

use effective oral and written communication skills with diverse clients, colleagues, and communities;
apply critical thinking skills within the context of generalist social work practice in a changing, global social environment;
understand and interpret the history of the social work profession and its contemporary structures and issues;
analyze the impact of social welfare policies on diverse populations;
apply the knowledge, skills, and values and ethics of generalist social work practice with systems of all sizes;
use theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual development and behavior across the life span as well as the interactions among and between individuals, families, groups,
organizations, and communities;
use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice;
develop an understanding and respect for all people regardless of their differences;
practice without discrimination and with sensitivity when serving diverse populations;
understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination;
develop knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values and ethics that will enable them to become advocates and leaders capable of formulating and influencing social policy to advance social, economic, and political justice;
evaluate research studies and apply research findings to practice;
evaluate their own practice interventions; and
develop an understanding of organizational structure and their roles as professionals and change agents within that structure.

Definition of Generalist Social Work Practice

Generalist social work practice is the application of social work knowledge, skills, and values and ethics to enhance human well-being and promote social, economic, and political justice with diverse client systems.

B.S.W. Program Mission, Goals and Objectives