As the entry point to professional social work education, the BSW provides a strong foundation rooted in service, social justice, human dignity, and integrity.

Considering a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW)? CSWE’s BSW Spotlight Series features voices from BSW students, alumni, faculty, and professionals across the country who reflect on how the degree shaped their paths. From career entry points to long-term professional growth, these stories highlight the many ways a BSW opens doors in social work and related fields. 

Have a BSW story to share—or know someone who does? Let us know at comms@cswe.org.

Introducing the Series

CSWE spoke with Christa Gilliam (PhD, MSW) and Makeba Green (PhD, MSW), two experienced social work educators and leaders, about why BSW programs matter, how visibility affects student recruitment, and the return on investment for a BSW degree. They shared insights and advice for students who want to contribute in meaningful ways to healthy and thriving individuals, families, and communities. Read more.

Story Spotlights

Makeba Green, PhD, MSW

Makeba Green, PhD, MSW, chairperson and professor, Department of Social Work, Bowie State University, discusses the code of ethics that undergirds the BSW and how that code translates to the world outside the classroom.

Angel Pérez, PhD

Angel Pérez, PhD, CEO of the National Association for College Admission Counseling, shares how his BSW shaped his leadership, highlighting the degree’s versatility, real-world impact, and enduring value.

AJ Tiffany

AJ Tiffany is an Army veteran and current BSW student at Fordham University. He plans to pursue his MSW and become a licensed clinical social worker, with a focus on supporting underserved veteran populations.

Reisha Kidd

Reisha Kidd, who received her BSW from Lipscomb University, explains how her BSW prepared her for an important role within a ministry organization serving Tennessee's largest women's prison.

Murray Penner

Murray Penner, who received his BSW from Bethel College in 1984, discusses what initially led him to pursue his social work degree at Bethel and how that created the foundation for this eventual career in public health.

Haley

Haley, who recently received her BSW from St. Francis University, shares how the BSW prepared for her current role in case management and set the foundation for her future pursuit of a master's degree in social work.

Alexis Hendricks

Alexis Hendricks, who received her BSW from Mississippi State University's Meridian describes her role as a case management worker with the Salvation Army and how her BSW degree served as the foundation to her career.

Hailey Messier

Hailey Messier, who received her BSW from Eastern Connecticut State University in 2024, works in communications for a nonprofit that provides free social, emotional, and physical wellness programs to youth in her community.