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California State University, Chico
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Social Work BA

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  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Major

  • Delivery Type

    Hybrid

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Use your passion for justice, anti-racism, equity, and inclusivity to pursue a meaningful career in social work. We’ll teach you how to address complex issues like poverty, racial disparities, mental health, housing and food insecurity, and environmental justice using skills rooted in social work values and competencies.

With small, supportive classes and practical training experiences, you’ll be well-prepared for work in a range of professional settings—from community health centers to government programs, hospitals, and schools. Our graduates are ready to begin careers or embark on postgraduate studies in social work, psychology, public administration, and other adjacent fields.

Students looking on in class

Fieldwork and Theory

Our program provides an engaging mix of theory and training. You’ll pair classes on mental health, diversity and social justice, and child welfare with a variety of fieldwork opportunities, including a year-long professional internship during your senior year.

Specializations and Options

The School of Social Work offers two programs, both with the same fully accredited curriculum, as well as a credential program:

  • Faculty presenting in front of a group of students in a classroom setting

    Campus-Based Program

    Courses are offered two days a week with an additional two days a week for seniors participating in a required internship.

  • A social work counselor is in their office and working on their laptop.

    Distributed Learning (DL) Program

    A hybrid format with courses on Chico State’s campus two weekends per semester and regularly scheduled live evening class sessions through an online platform. Seniors will also participate in a year-long required internship two days a week.

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    Wellness Coach Certificate

    All students in the major are eligible to enroll in our program to become a certified wellness coach through the state of California. You’ll receive additional training and support to address the many issues faced by children and youth across our regional and statewide geographic areas.

A Higher Calling

Michelle Thorpe stands in the Hub while students study behind her.There's a growing need for trained professionals who can help people overcome mental, emotional, and physical barriers—providing them with the support they need to thrive. Our graduates work for public schools, higher education, state and government agencies, and a range of nonprofits.

“
When you take courses that you’re very interested in, it opens this little pathway and captures all of your attention—that’s how I felt about social work.
Selena Thao (Social Work, ’22)
Read Selena's story

A Community of Advocates

There’s a variety of ways to get involved and connect with like-minded peers in the social work programs.

  • View of the row of tables and people at the clubtacular event

    Student Clubs

    Make friends, gain experience, and level up your skillset by joining the Student Association of Social Work, one of the more than 220 student-run organizations offering meetups, professional development workshops and trainings, and volunteer opportunities that connect you with local agencies and organizations.

  • A group looks on toward the front of the room

    Impact Policy

    Students are encouraged to attend and participate in the annual National Association of Social Work Legislative Days at the Capitol with students from across the state.

Discover Stories and More

Chico State Today
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