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School of Social Work

WHY SOCIAL WORK AT SOUTHERN?

Southern’s social work program prepares students to be local and global leaders in providing services to individuals, families, and communities.

Students are introduced to the latest in concepts, theories, and field experiences, all within the context of a Christ-centered environment. They are able to implement the knowledge gained in the classroom during assigned field practicums.

Our 4+1 program (4 years BSW, 1 year MSW) allows students the opportunity to complete both degrees in just 5 years.

Faculty members have extensive experience in social work practice and continue to develop research and ministry projects.

Proximity to Chattanooga's urban environment provides a variety of practicum and internship partners.

Students may work with faculty and staff on formal collaborations with the local government.

Southern’s social work programs at both the bachelor's and master's levels are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The high curriculum standard required to achieve CSWE accreditation thoroughly prepares undergraduate students for graduate studies.

EXPLORE MAJORS AND MINORS

Beyond the Classroom

Academic programs are complemented with practical learning experiences in the community and beyond.

Study Tours

Study tour destinations include Europe and New York City. A Washington, D.C. Policy Tour is part of senior-year requirements for BSW majors.

Mu Chi

Mu Chi is Southern’s chapter of Phi Alpha, the national honor society for social work students.

Social Work Club

The Social Work Club provides student leadership opportunities in organizing service, social, and professional activities.

PROFESSORS

Headshot Photo of Laura Racovita

Laura Racovita

Dean

Headshot Photo of Corneliu Rusu

Corneliu Rusu

Professor

Headshot Photo of Kristie Wilder

Kristie Wilder

Professor

Headshot Photo of Stephanie Guster

Stephanie Guster

Associate Professor

Headshot Photo of Nina Nelson

Nina Nelson

Associate Professor

Headshot Photo of Evie Nogales Baker

Evie Nogales Baker

Associate Professor

Headshot Photo of Lunelle Bertresse

Lunelle Bertresse

Assistant Professor

Headshot Photo of Candy Dolcy

Candy Dolcy

Assistant Professor

Accreditation

The Commission on Accreditation (COA) of the Council on Social Work Education at its 2018 meeting voted reaffirmation of the accreditation to Southern Adventist University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Accreditation is granted from 2017-2025 per CSWE.

Alumni Voices

Lauren Souza and Tekoa Penrose discuss how Southern prepared them for fulfilling careers in Social Work. They describe the many opportunities they have to share Christ's love through their actions on behalf of those most in need.

Contact

Office

423.236.2768

MSW Office

423.236.2629

School of Social Work PO Box 370
Collegedale, TN 37315

Start your Social Work career with us.