WHAT IS SOCIAL WORK?
“Enhancing and empowering the lives of others”
Valerie Holland, Senior Social Work Student

Social workers are concerned with social problems, their causes, their solutions and their impact on individuals. Social workers work with children, individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities, as members of a profession which is committed to social justice and human rights.
A social worker must genuinely care about the welfare of others, have a
willingness to advocate for changes in political and other systems, and possess a strong belief in the ability of people to change and grow.

Students take courses that prepare them to work in a variety of areas. Courses required address: social work ethics, human behavior, social work practice (interviewing and counseling skills), social policy and research. An internship is also required. Each student identifies her area of interest in selecting the internship site. The Social Work Program emphasizes the development of leadership skills.

Because the Columbia College program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), students are eligible for “advanced standing” status at most Masters of Social Work (MSW) programs. Admission to advanced standing essentially means that the student exempts the first year of the two-year master’s program. Other graduates have pursued degrees in law, public administration, and education.