Social Work
College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
At the University of Maine School of Social Work, we prepare proficient and ethical social work professionals committed to social change in a variety of organizations, specializations, and professional roles.
We provide the highest quality education for Social Work undergraduate students who want to earn a BSW. We educate in an atmosphere of individual and group learning, respect for individual rights, and a celebration of diversity.
As a member of our diverse and dedicated community of students, faculty, field instructors, and alumni, you will transform your commitment to improving the quality of life for people into professional knowledge and skills. You may have an impact on policies, social justice and social change.
You will be poised for a successful and personally rewarding career promoting social change by providing service to individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations.
Graduates from the School of Social Work with a BSW degree practice in a variety of settings meeting the needs of people throughout the lifespan. BSW careers include: Behavioral health professionals, case management, community outreach, Department of Human Services in a variety of capacities, medical social workers, residential case managers, discharge planners, juvenile court liaisons, social policy, researcher, advocate, crisis workers, and many other positions.
Our field is ever changing. Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook).
Social Work
College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
Social Work Building
207.581.2389
Social Work Field Practicum
The School of Social Work is a professional degree program. The student capstone project is a 400 hour field placement in a variety of field agencies throughout the state of Maine. Field practicums are the gold standard of BSW Programs. It is where students integrate knowledge into practice and social work comes alive. Students who earn a BSW degree are eligible to continue their education towards a MSW degree with the ability to enter as an Advanced Standing Student. This option allows a student to earn their MSW in one year, full time and two years, part time.
Examples of field practicum sites include:
United Cerebral Palsy of Maine, Shaw House, Partners for Peace, Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Bangor YMCA, Eastern Area Agency on Aging, Care & Comfort, Indian Island Health Center, My Friend’s Place, Preble Street Teen Center, Penobscot Nation Department of Human Services, and Equality Maine.