Social Work Department

Professor: M. Frost (chairperson)
Assistant Professors: K. McCoy Coleman
Lecturer: K. Dague, P. McQuinn

The social work program prepares students for generalist professional practice in a wide range of agencies, including social services, health, mental health, developmental disabilities, education, aging, youth services, addictions, and related organizations. The social work program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

The social work program is completed in the junior and senior years. The curriculum includes both course work and an agency-based field internship under professional supervision. During the freshman and sophomore years, social work students complete a liberal arts base that includes the General Education requirements and a minimum of 57 credits.

Both SUNY Plattsburgh students and transfer students may apply for admission to the social work program. Transfer students apply through the college’s admissions office. Currently enrolled Plattsburgh students apply through the Social Work Department. Applications are available in Ward Hall, main office, room 109, in February of each year.

Admission requirements include substantial completion of SUNY Plattsburgh’s General Education program, or its equivalent as determined by admissions. Applicants must have completed: SOC 101 , PSY 101 , MAT 161 , and BIO 100 or BIO 103 (human biology). A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, completion of the application form, and a letter of reference assessing applicant’s suitability for a career in social work are required.

Transfer credit for courses taken at another accredited social work program will be granted to prevent duplication of academic content. Procedures for granting transfer credit for courses from other accredited baccalaureate social work programs are detailed in the Program Manual, available in Ward Hall, main office. Transfer courses from unaccredited programs will only be considered for SWK 260 - Introduction to Social Welfare (3 cr.) in those instances in which a formal articulation agreement exists. No academic credit for life experience or previous work experience will be granted under any circumstances.

Practicum and internship candidates are expected to follow the external and professional practicum guidelines appropriate to their discipline (please refer to specific department/program student/internship manual for details).

Successful completion of the social work program leads to the bachelor of science with a major in social work. Students earning this degree are recognized as BSWs within the profession of social work and are eligible for membership in the National Association of Social Workers.

Programs

Majors (Undergraduate)

Social Work, B.S.