Cumberlands Bachelor of Social Work Degree Program Granted Full Accreditation

University of the Cumberlands’ Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program has been granted accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The newly acquired accreditation marks the first time in the university’s history that it has offered an accredited social work program. 

Launched in 2023, the BSW program at Cumberlands prepares students through generalist, evidence-based practices designed to enhance human and social well-being. Core courses cover essential knowledge and skills, including social welfare policy, counseling and interviewing, and assessment and problem-solving processes.

In addition to classroom learning, students gain hands-on experience through 400 hours of fieldwork, applying their education in real-world, face-to-face settings. The program comprises 60 credit hours and is in a flexible hybrid format. Graduates will emerge as ethical leaders and change agents, equipped to make a meaningful impact in the social work field. 

The recent accreditation of the BSW program marks a significant milestone, validating both the quality of its content and the caliber of its graduating students. 

“This milestone affirms our dedication to providing our students with a comprehensive social work education, encompassing rigorous academics, practical field experience, and a strong ethical foundation,” explained Dr. Jennifer Knuckles, department chair and associate professor. “This ensures our graduates are well-prepared for licensure and success in the job market.”

According to the CSWE’s website, “Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the Board of Accreditation means that it meets or exceeds standards of program quality evaluated through a peer review accreditation process. An accredited program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals, and the BOA has verified that it demonstrates compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS).  Accreditation applies to all program options, which include locations and delivery methods.  Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.” 

To learn more about Cumberlands’ Bachelor of Social Work degree program and other academic offerings, visit https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics.