General Information

The B.S.W. program was brought to the Indiana University Northwest campus in 2010 and graduated its first class in 2012. 

This four-year degree program prepares students for generalist social work practice. It helps students develop the competence to apply knowledge, values, and skills to practice with individuals, small groups, organizations, and communities. The program also prepares students for graduate education. The B.S.W. degree equips the practitioner to work with people who are encountering challenges related to personal or social circumstances. In addition, qualified graduates may apply for advanced standing to the IU School of Social Work or other M.S.W. programs nationwide. Following the equivalent of a minimum of two postgraduate years of supervised social work practice experience, B.S.W. graduates of IU are eligible to apply for licensure by the state of Indiana. Upon successful completion of licensing requirements, the Indiana State Health Professions Bureau designates the B.S.W. graduate a Licensed Social Worker (L.S.W.).

B.S.W. Program Mission and Vision

In 2011, the School of Social Work B.S.W. Program reaffirmed its mission and vision.  The educational mission of the Bachelor of Social Work program of Indiana University is to prepare students for generalist social work practice with vulnerable people in Indiana and beyond and prepare graduates as critical thinkers and lifelong learners, who reflect a global perspective, recognize strengths, enhance opportunities, create change, and contribute to the empowerment of the people they serve.

The B.S.W. Program’s vision is to be a leader in preparing social workers for strengths-based generalist social work practice with vulnerable populations. As stated in the B.S.W. Student Handbook, the B.S.W. Program is committed to high standards for educational delivery and achievement; the core values of the profession (service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence); diversity among students, faculty, and staff; and, development, dissemination, and assessment of effective practices.

The B.S.W. degree is offered on the Indianapolis (IUPUI), Bloomington (IUB), Gary (IUN), Richmond (IUE), South Bend (SB) and Fort Wayne (IUFW) campuses. Students in the B.S.W. Program must complete all sophomore and junior social work courses and achieve senior standing before enrolling in the senior social work courses.

For specific information regarding the B.S.W. Program at IU Northwest , contact

B.S.W. Program
Indiana University Northwest
3400 Broadway
Gary, IN 46408-1197
Telephone: (219) 980-7111
E-mail: darlynch@iun.edu

BSW Scholars Program (Title IV-E)

The Title IV-E Program is offered to students involved in the Indiana Partnership for Social Work Education in Child Welfare, funded in part by Title IV-E.  The program provides training and financial support for seniors pursuing a career in protective services through the Indiana Department of Child Services. Students apply for this program in the junior year with the final selections made by the Department of Child Services. Students begin the program by enrolling in a required course in their junior year and begin their practicum within the Department of Child Services in the senior year.