UNK Launches Online Programs in Social Work

There’s a new way to make a difference in your community, thanks to two social work programs launching in the online format at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) in Fall 2017.

Rural communities around the country, including many within Nebraska, have a shortage of qualified professionals to fill social work positions. To help address this shortage, UNK is expanding the reach of its longstanding on-campus social work programs through an online Bachelor of Science in Social Work and an online social work minor. The online programs will prepare students for social work positions while they reside within and strengthen their own communities.

“Social workers serve individuals, families, groups, and communities, while empowering them to accomplish life’s tasks, alleviate distress, and realize their full potential,” said Ben Malczyk, assistant professor of social work at UNK. “They often work in positions where they can interact with vulnerable and oppressed populations and help clients to improve their own lives.”

The online programs will be taught by the same on-campus faculty who believe that social work is more than a profession—rather, it is a calling and a personal mission that compels people to make a meaningful difference in society. That philosophy can now extend to students no matter where they live during their studies.

“Online students will take the same courses from the same instructors as on-campus students, and they’ll also get the chance to interact with on-campus students,” Malczyk said. “They learn that ordinary individuals can make extraordinary efforts aimed at creating a more compassionate, moral, and inclusive society, and it can begin in their community.”

Graduates of the online Bachelor of Science in Social Work—one of only 16 online programs of its kind nationwide—are trained and qualified to work as generalist social workers. Completing the program opens the door to a master’s degree in social work with advanced standing because of an additional accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Advanced standing at the baccalaureate level reduces the time and financial investment required to reach a graduate-level education in the social work field. The 24-credit-hour online minor in social work complements many UNK undergraduate degrees, whether on campus or online.

Both of UNK’s online social work programs will prepare students for human services jobs that are projected to remain in high demand over the next few decades, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These careers include positions within medical and public health; mental health and substance abuse; youth and family services; geriatrics; community action agencies, and many other areas.

Rise up to make positive changes for your community by getting started in the online Bachelor of Science in Social Work or online social work minor through UNK eCampus.