UNC Pembroke Social Work Programs

UNC Pembroke provides accredited social work education that prepares future leaders to boost quality of life and tackle rural challenges. The university’s social work programs focus on advancing economic, political, and social justice. These programs enable populations-at-risk in communities of all types.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program got its original accreditation in 1982. Students attend classes at the Pembroke campus, with some courses available online. The Department of Social Work runs a Master of Social Work (MSW) program that trains students through an advanced generalist model.

These programs excel in preparing students to practice in rural settings. MSW graduates learn to work effectively in rural areas and with indigenous communities. They gain experience in clinical and healthcare settings while following evidence-based practices. The programs also follow the NASW Code of Ethics. This prepares graduates through anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.

Working professionals can benefit from flexible learning options at UNC Pembroke. Students can take courses in hybrid (reduced-seat time), online, and evening formats. The MSW program lets you choose between fully online or hybrid delivery methods. Hybrid classes usually meet once a week.

Both programs feature field practicum experience as their cornerstone. Students get a chance to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills under professionally trained social workers’ supervision.

North Carolina expects its population to reach 11.7 million residents by the early 2030s. This growth creates a rising need for healthcare and social service professionals. Healthcare social workers can expect 16.6% job growth through 2032. Average annual salaries range from $52,000 to $68,000. UNC Pembroke’s social work programs are a smart investment in your future.

Types of Social Work Degrees Offered at UNC Pembroke

UNC Pembroke offers two social work degree paths that match your career goals and academic background. Both programs have full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which ensures education meeting national professional standards.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares you for entry-level professional practice. This undergraduate degree needs completion of 120 credit hours, including 41 hours in the major concentration. Students get a well-rounded foundation through a curriculum that combines liberal arts education with specialized social work courses. The program requires BSW students to maintain a 2.5 GPA in social work courses and overall studies. You’ll also complete two field practicum experiences with 440 hours of supervised practice in social service agencies.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program features two distinct tracks for students seeking advanced credentials. Students new to social work or those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can choose the Traditional MSW pathway. This track needs 60 credit hours and takes two years of full-time study.

The Advanced Standing MSW track serves students who have earned their BSW from a CSWE-accredited program in the last five years. Students can complete this accelerated option with 33 credit hours in just three semesters of full-time study.

The MSW program requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, three professional references, and a personal statement. Advanced Standing applicants need a BSW with a minimum 3.2 GPA in social work courses.

Both programs focus on the advanced generalist practice model that prepares students for versatile career options in rural social work practice. Students gain academic knowledge and real-life skills through a curriculum blending theoretical concepts with practical field experience. The programs emphasize field education, with MSW students completing 900 hours of supervised practice in social service settings.

Degree Specializations

UNC Pembroke’s social work programs provide specialized pathways that open up many career paths in the field.

The BSW program emphasizes generalist practice with special attention to rural communities. The program has managed to keep its strong commitment to addressing unique challenges and strengths in rural settings since its accreditation in 1982. Students get ready to take on entry-level positions in social work settings of all types.

MSW students learn through an advanced generalist model that centers on two key areas: rural communities and indigenous populations. This unique combination makes UNC Pembroke’s program stand out in social work education. Students develop broad skills while gaining specialized knowledge they can use to help underserved communities.

The MSW curriculum starts with foundation courses and moves into concentration courses for advanced practice. Students tackle significant topics like advanced rural practice, social work administration, intervention research, and specialized work with indigenous populations. The program lets students shape their education further through elective courses.

Students can choose from these career-focused elective options:

• Child welfare in rural/indigenous communities
• Grant writing
• School social work
• Substance use disorders and addictions
• Human trafficking
• Forensic social work
• Military social work
• Integrated healthcare
• International social work

UNC Pembroke features two specialty tracks worth noting. The School Social Work specialty guides BSW and MSW students toward school social work licensure through the NC Department of Public Instruction. The program also meets “Criteria C” requirements set by the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board, which helps students qualify for Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS) licensure.

These specializations create paths to many careers. Graduates work in clinical practice, social administration, public policy, research, community organizing, trauma treatment, and fields ranging from child welfare to medical social work.

Online and Hybrid Options

UNC Pembroke’s social work education puts flexibility first. You’ll find multiple learning formats that fit your schedule and lifestyle. The program works great if you’re a working professional, have family commitments, or just learn better in different environments.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program uses a hybrid format that blends classroom learning with online convenience. You’ll spend less time on campus but still get valuable face-to-face interaction. Many BSW courses run in the evening to help working students. While most classes follow this hybrid model, you can take some courses entirely online.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program gives you even more options. You can pick between fully online and hybrid delivery methods. The hybrid option mixes online and in-person learning. You’ll only need to be on campus one day per week from 3:00-8:30 PM. Some hybrid setups are even more flexible – you just need to show up every other week.

The MSW program’s versatility goes beyond just how classes are taught. You can study full-time or part-time based on what works for you. If you already have a BSW degree, the advanced standing option helps you get your MSW faster.

This setup shows UNC Pembroke’s steadfast dedication to adult learners who just need education that lines up with their daily lives. The online MSW program works especially well when you have a busy career and want to improve your community impact without giving up your current job. You’ll find a good mix of self-paced work and scheduled class time that lets you handle coursework on your terms.

UNC Pembroke makes quality social work education available to everyone, whatever your location, work schedule, or personal situation might be.

Graduation Rates

Program success rates tell a compelling story at UNC Pembroke. The graduation statistics offer valuable insights to future social work students who want to evaluate their educational investment.

Latest numbers show UNC Pembroke’s six-year graduation rate is approximately 44.5%. Female Black or African American students lead the pack with a 53.4% graduation success rate. These numbers match the university’s diverse makeup, with People of Color representing 65% of BSW and 70% of MSW students.

Social work programs boast strong completion numbers. The 2021-2022 academic year saw 57 students earning their bachelor’s degree in social work. The graduate program celebrated 66 students finishing their MSW degree during this time. These achievements showcase the department’s success in helping students meet program requirements.

Student retention rates paint an impressive picture. UNC Pembroke retains 72.73% of students after their freshman year. This number beats the national average of 68%. The high retention rate points to robust student support systems and strong academic programs.

The numbers reveal interesting demographic patterns that showcase UNC Pembroke’s diverse student body. Male students make up 20% of BSW graduates. The age diversity stands out with 47% of BSW and 76% of MSW students aged over 25. These figures highlight the program’s appeal to both traditional and working professionals.

UNC Pembroke’s graduation rates have steadily climbed over the last several years. The rates rose from 32.7% for 2013 graduates to 41.0% for 2019 graduates. The university matches or outperforms about half of its peer institutions.

Students typically complete their bachelor’s degree in 4.5 years at UNC Pembroke. This timeline helps set realistic expectations as you plan your educational path in social work here.

Career Outcomes

A UNC Pembroke social work degree leads to many career opportunities in North Carolina and beyond. The numbers speak for themselves – 90% of UNCP graduates find employment within 12 months of graduation. This shows how much qualified social workers are needed right now.

Your salary potential changes based on your degree and specialty. UNC Pembroke’s BSW graduates typically earn $31,695 annually. MSW graduates earn more with a median salary of $43,986 per year. Advanced degrees clearly boost your career prospects.

North Carolina’s growth creates great job opportunities. The state should become America’s seventh-largest by the early 2030s. This means social service professionals will be more needed than ever. Healthcare social workers can look forward to a strong 16.6% job growth rate through 2032.

UNC Pembroke’s social work graduates have many career paths. BSW graduates usually start in generalist roles that boost quality of life in rural communities. MSW graduates, with their advanced generalist training, work in:

• Clinical practice (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
• Healthcare and medical social work
• Child welfare and family services
• School social work
• Substance use disorder treatment
• Community organization and advocacy
• Non-profit management

UNC Pembroke’s Career Center helps students find jobs through tailored development programs. Students get one-on-one advice, career assessments, and networking events. The center teaches job search strategies and connects students with employers.

Most graduates stay close to home – 81% remain in North Carolina after graduation. This local retention rate is higher than many other UNC System schools. This shows the program’s strong regional influence. Graduates who move often head to Washington D.C., New York, or Atlanta.

Field practicum experiences boost job prospects significantly. Students work in settings that line up with their career goals. These hands-on experiences at behavioral health agencies, schools, hospitals, and social services create professional networks that often turn into job offers after graduation.

What’s Unique about the Social Work Programs at UNC Pembroke

UNC Pembroke’s social work programs stand out from others in North Carolina with some unique features.

The programs focus on rural communities and indigenous populations, creating a unique learning experience you won’t find in many other places. This focus helps you prepare to work in areas where social workers are needed most but hard to find.

Student diversity goes beyond what’s taught in class. The numbers tell the story – 65% of BSW and 70% of MSW students are People of Color. This creates a learning environment that mirrors the communities social workers help every day.

The age mix in these programs shows how well UNC Pembroke works for students of all backgrounds. About 47% of BSW and 76% of MSW students are over 25 years old. Their varied life experiences make classroom discussions richer and more meaningful.

The programs really shine when it comes to flexibility. You won’t find many social work programs with such complete options. Students can take MSW courses fully online or choose hybrid formats with just one campus visit per week. This makes quality education available to you no matter where you live or work.

Career paths are clear and focused. The programs include specialized tracks for School Social Work licensure and “Criteria C” designation for addiction counseling licensure – credentials that many other programs don’t include.

The programs’ local influence speaks volumes. About 81% of graduates stay in North Carolina after finishing – more than most other UNC System schools. This shows how well these programs meet local workforce needs.

Job prospects look great too. About 90% of graduates find work within 12 months, which proves these programs work well.

Looking for a BSW or an advanced MSW degree? UNC Pembroke’s social work programs combine specialized focus areas, student diversity, flexible options, and proven career success in ways you won’t find anywhere else in the state.