Utah MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Utah Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Utah Social Work Licensure
BSW Programs in Utah: Overview
Utah’s commitment to social work education is evident through its four CSWE-accredited universities offering BSW programs. These institutions offer rigorous curricula that prepare students for immediate entry into the social work profession or advanced study in MSW programs. Each program maintains the high standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional practice and eligible for social work licensure.
The state’s BSW programs serve students across major metropolitan areas, including Salt Lake City, Ogden, Logan, and Orem, with additional reach through online offerings. These programs combine theoretical knowledge with extensive field education, preparing graduates to address Utah’s unique social challenges, from rural healthcare access to urban homelessness and substance abuse issues.
CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Utah
- University of Utah – Salt Lake City (Traditional and Online)
- Utah State University – Logan (Traditional)
- Utah Valley University – Orem (Traditional)
- Weber State University – Ogden (Traditional)
Utah BSW Programs Comparison Table
| University | Location | Format Options | Annual Tuition (In-State) | Program Duration | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Utah | Salt Lake City | Traditional & 100% Online | $10,287 | 4 years (full-time) | Child Welfare Title IV-E specialization |
| Utah State University | Logan | Traditional | $8,997 | 4 years (full-time) | Rural social work emphasis |
| Utah Valley University | Orem | Traditional | $6,163 | 4 years (full-time) | Behavioral health focus |
| Weber State University | Ogden | Traditional | $6,752 | 4 years (full-time) | Gerontology certificate option |
Detailed University Program Information
University of Utah BSW Program
The University of Utah’s College of Social Work stands as the state’s flagship social work program, offering both traditional and fully online BSW options. Located in Salt Lake City, the program serves approximately 300 BSW students annually and maintains strong connections with Utah’s largest healthcare systems and social service agencies.
The University of Utah’s BSW program distinguishes itself through its Child Welfare Title IV-E specialization, which provides specialized training for students interested in child welfare careers. This federally funded program offers financial support to eligible students who commit to working in public child welfare after graduation. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and social justice, preparing graduates for diverse practice settings.
Field education at the University of Utah includes 480 hours of supervised practice across two semesters, with placement sites ranging from Primary Children’s Hospital to the Utah Department of Human Services. The program’s location in Utah’s capital provides unparalleled access to state agencies, legislative advocacy opportunities, and major healthcare facilities.
Utah State University BSW Program
Utah State University’s BSW program in Logan serves Northern Utah and surrounding rural communities with a unique emphasis on rural social work practice. The program enrolls approximately 150 students and maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and mentorship opportunities.
USU’s curriculum addresses the specific challenges of rural social work, including limited resources, professional isolation, and the need for generalist practice skills. Students learn to navigate the dual relationships common in small communities while maintaining professional boundaries. The program’s field education component includes placements in frontier counties, Native American reservations, and agricultural communities throughout the region.
The program integrates research opportunities through USU’s Social Work Research Institute, where students can participate in studies addressing rural mental health, substance abuse prevention, and family preservation. Graduates are particularly well-prepared for careers in rural healthcare settings, school districts, and county social services departments.
Utah Valley University BSW Program
Utah Valley University’s BSW program serves Utah County and the rapidly growing Wasatch Front region. With approximately 200 students enrolled, UVU’s program emphasizes behavioral health and substance abuse treatment, addressing critical needs in Utah’s communities. The program’s location in Orem provides access to diverse field placement sites across Utah County’s urban and suburban settings.
UVU’s curriculum incorporates innovative approaches to social work education, including simulation labs where students practice intervention techniques in controlled environments. The program’s behavioral health focus includes specialized coursework in addiction studies, trauma-informed care, and Mental Health First Aid certification. Students benefit from partnerships with local treatment centers, including the Utah State Hospital and various community mental health agencies.
The university’s open enrollment policy and flexible scheduling options, including evening courses, make the BSW program accessible to non-traditional students and working professionals. UVU also offers concurrent enrollment options, allowing students to begin MSW coursework during their senior year.
Weber State University BSW Program
Weber State University’s BSW program in Ogden combines traditional social work education with innovative specialization options, including a gerontology certificate program that addresses the needs of Utah’s aging population. The program serves approximately 175 students and maintains strong connections with Northern Utah’s healthcare and social service networks.
WSU’s curriculum emphasizes interprofessional education, with BSW students regularly collaborating with students from nursing, criminal justice, and health administration on complex case studies. The program’s gerontology certificate prepares students for careers in aging services, long-term care administration, and elder advocacy. Field education placements include innovative sites such as the WSU Community Education & Services clinic, where students provide direct services under faculty supervision.
The program’s location in Ogden provides unique opportunities for students interested in military social work, given the proximity to Hill Air Force Base. Weber State also offers specialized training in crisis intervention and disaster response, preparing graduates for emergency management roles within the social services sector.
Online BSW Program Options in Utah
The University of Utah’s online BSW program represents a significant advancement in social work education accessibility for residents of Utah. This 100% online program maintains the same CSWE accreditation and rigorous standards as the traditional program while offering unprecedented flexibility for working professionals, rural residents, and caregivers who cannot attend campus-based classes.
The online format includes both full-time and part-time enrollment options, with part-time students typically completing the degree in 6-8 years. All coursework is delivered asynchronously, allowing students to complete assignments and participate in discussions on their own schedule. However, field education requirements still require in-person participation at approved agencies in students’ local communities.
Online students have full access to university resources, including academic advising, career services, and the university library. The program uses advanced educational technology to facilitate group projects, case study discussions, and virtual office hours with professors. Graduation rates for online students match those of traditional students, with 78% completing their degree within six years.
BSW Degree Curriculum and Coursework
Utah’s BSW programs follow CSWE-mandated competencies while incorporating state-specific content addressing local social issues. The typical 120-credit curriculum is divided into general education requirements (40-45 credits), social work core courses (45-50 credits), electives (15-20 credits), and field education (12-15 credits).
Foundation Courses (First Two Years)
- Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
- Human Behavior in the Social Environment I & II
- Social Work Research Methods
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Cultural Diversity and Social Justice
- Statistics for Social Workers
Advanced Practice Courses (Final Two Years)
- Social Work Practice with Individuals
- Social Work Practice with Families and Groups
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
- Trauma-Informed Practice
- Case Management and Documentation
- Professional Ethics in Social Work
Specialized Electives Available
- Substance Abuse Assessment and Treatment
- Child Welfare Practice
- Gerontological Social Work
- School Social Work
- Healthcare Social Work
- Criminal Justice Social Work
Field Education Requirements
All Utah BSW programs require a minimum of 400-480 hours of supervised field placement, typically completed during the senior year of study. Field education represents the signature pedagogy of social work education, where students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of licensed social workers.
Students complete placements in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, child welfare agencies, and community organizations. Each university maintains partnerships with over 100 field sites throughout Utah, ensuring students can find placements aligned with their career interests and geographic preferences.
BSW Careers and Salary Outlook in Utah
Utah’s growing population and expanding healthcare sector create strong demand for BSW-prepared social workers. Graduates find employment across diverse settings, with particularly strong opportunities in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health services. The state’s emphasis on family services and community support creates unique career paths not available in all regions.
2024 Utah Social Work Salary Data
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Utah earn competitive salaries that reflect the state’s moderate cost of living and growing demand for social services:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $37,910 | $18.23 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,840 | $20.60 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $49,070 | $23.59 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,740 | $31.13 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,920 | $41.79 |
| Mean (Average) | $56,410 | $27.12 |
These figures represent base salaries and don’t include benefits packages, which typically add 25-30% to total compensation. Utah social workers employed by state agencies receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and tuition reimbursement for continuing education.
Top Employment Settings for BSW Graduates
- Healthcare Settings: Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health, and regional hospitals employ BSW social workers for discharge planning, patient advocacy, and care coordination roles
- Child Welfare: Utah Division of Child and Family Services offers numerous positions for new BSW graduates, with opportunities for advancement and specialized training
- Mental Health Centers: Community mental health centers throughout Utah employ BSW workers as case managers, crisis intervention specialists, and program coordinators
- School Districts: Utah’s school districts increasingly employ social workers to address student mental health, family engagement, and crisis response
- Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations like United Way of Salt Lake, The Road Home, and Family Support Centers offer diverse opportunities in program management and direct service
Career Advancement Opportunities
BSW graduates in Utah enjoy clear pathways for career advancement. Many individuals pursue LCSW licensure after completing their MSW and fulfilling the required supervised hours. The state’s Advanced Standing MSW programs allow BSW graduates to complete their master’s degree in just one year, accelerating career progression.
Utah’s growing healthcare sector particularly values social workers with specialized skills in integrated healthcare, telehealth delivery, and care coordination. The state’s aging population also creates increasing demand for gerontological social workers, with projected job growth of 15% through 2032.
Admission Requirements for Utah BSW Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, Utah’s BSW programs share common admission standards designed to identify students prepared for the rigors of social work education. Understanding these requirements helps prospective students prepare competitive applications.
General Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED: All programs require proof of secondary education completion
- Minimum GPA: Most programs require a 2.5-3.0 cumulative GPA for direct admission
- Prerequisite Courses: Common requirements include English composition, college algebra, introductory psychology, and sociology
- Application Materials: Personal statement, letters of recommendation (typically 2-3), and official transcripts
- Background Check: Required for field placement eligibility; conducted after admission
Program-Specific Requirements
University of Utah: Requires completion of pre-major coursework with a minimum 2.75 GPA, including specific courses in human biology, statistics, and diversity studies. Students apply to the BSW program after completing 40 credit hours.
Utah State University offers direct admission to incoming freshmen who meet the university’s requirements. Transfer students must have a 2.75 GPA and complete the Introduction to Social Work course.
Utah Valley University: An open-enrollment university with program admission after completing prerequisite courses. Requires 2.5 GPA in prerequisite coursework and volunteer experience documentation.
Weber State University: Students declare social work as their major upon admission to the university. Formal program admission occurs before junior year, requiring 2.5 overall GPA and completion of introduction course with B or better.
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah BSW Programs
What is the difference between a BSW and a BA in Social Work?
In Utah, all accredited social work programs award the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree rather than a BA in Social Work. The BSW is a professional degree that includes specific coursework and field education requirements mandated by CSWE accreditation standards. This distinction is important for students planning to pursue advanced standing MSW programs or professional licensure.
Can I complete a BSW entirely online in Utah?
Yes, the University of Utah offers a 100% online BSW program for Utah residents. While all coursework is completed online, students must still complete field placement requirements (480 hours) at approved agencies in their local communities. The online program maintains the same accreditation and academic standards as the traditional on-campus program.
How long does it take to complete a BSW in Utah?
Full-time students typically complete their BSW in four years (8 semesters). Part-time options are available at most universities, allowing students to extend their timeline to 6-8 years. The University of Utah’s online program offers particular flexibility for part-time study. Students with associate degrees or significant transfer credits may be able to complete their BSW in 2-3 years.
What GPA is required to be admitted to Utah BSW programs?
Minimum GPA requirements range from 2.5 to 3.0, depending on the university. The University of Utah requires a 2.75 GPA in pre-major coursework, while Utah Valley University and Weber State University require a 2.5 GPA. However, competitive applicants typically have GPAs above 3.0. Programs also consider volunteer experience, personal statements, and demonstrated commitment to social work values.
Do Utah BSW programs require field placements?
Yes, all CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Utah require field education as an integral component of the curriculum. Students complete 400-480 hours of supervised field placement, typically during their senior year of study. Field placements take place at approved agencies, where students work under the supervision of licensed social workers, applying classroom knowledge to real-world practice.
Can I work while completing my BSW in Utah?
Many BSW students successfully balance work and school, particularly in part-time programs. The University of Utah’s online program is specifically designed for working adults. However, field placement requirements (typically 16-20 hours per week for two semesters) may require schedule adjustments. Some agencies offer evening and weekend placement options to accommodate working students.
What financial aid is available for BSW students in Utah?
Utah BSW students can access various financial aid sources, including federal Pell Grants, state need-based aid through the Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority, and university-specific scholarships. The University of Utah’s Title IV-E Child Welfare Education Program offers tuition support to students dedicated to pursuing careers in child welfare. Many programs also offer work-study opportunities within social service agencies.
Next Steps: Launching Your Social Work Career in Utah
Choosing the right BSW program marks the beginning of a rewarding career dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities. Utah’s BSW programs offer diverse pathways to enter the social work profession, whether through traditional campus-based education or flexible online learning. As you consider your options, take into account your career goals, learning preferences, and life circumstances to select the program that best suits your needs.
For those ready to advance their education after completing a BSW, Utah offers excellent MSW programs with advanced standing options. Many graduates also pursue specialized credentials or even doctoral degrees in social work to advance into leadership, research, or teaching roles.
The demand for qualified social workers in Utah continues to grow, driven by population growth, the evolution of the healthcare system, and an increasing recognition of mental health needs. By choosing to pursue your BSW in Utah, you’re positioning yourself for a stable, meaningful career with numerous opportunities for specialization and advancement. Whether you’re drawn to clinical practice, policy work, or community organizing, Utah’s BSW programs provide the foundation for making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities throughout the state.
Ready to take the next step? Explore social work career paths and learn more about the licensure process to plan your professional journey. Remember that social work is more than a career—it’s a calling to serve others and advocate for social justice, making it one of the most rewarding professional paths available.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
