The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Work prepares the student for the beginning professional social work practice upon graduation. As part of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, the Social Work Program involves students in the studies and activities which will enable them to cope effectively with the socio-cultural and interpersonal process of a constantly changing, complex society.
Students interact with minority groups, the elderly, and the poor.
Through this direct contact, students learn about the life situation of individuals who have rural values and must learn to survive within an urban environment. The University is surrounded by families on fixed or at low income level. Students entering the program gain more than preparation for a professional career as there is emphasis on caring about individuals and concern about changing social conditions which have an impact on individuals. The Social Work Program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff emphasizes a generic-based model which allows students the ability to provide direct services, understand social policy, and to contribute to social change. This model emphasizes the common ground of casework, group work, and community organization with the knowledge and skills of social problem-solving.