Social Work

Overview

Students in the Social Work program at California State University Long Beach learn to practice as professional social workers with persons and groups representing the range of human diversity and with all size systems (individuals, families, groups, communities and institutions). In addition, students are prepared for advanced, specialized practice in one of the following specializations: Child and Family Wellbeing, Adulthood and Aging, or Integrated Health.

Our MSW Program emphasizes ecological and systems perspectives which focus on the fit and interactions of a person or system in relation to the various environments likely to be encountered. Within these perspectives, knowledge, values, and skills are used in a change-oriented process within a multicultural context to help individuals and social systems achieve an improved quality of life and social participation, including advocacy for just institutions and equitable access to opportunities and resources.

Outcomes

Graduates of our program are prepared to work with diverse populations, advocate in a variety of settings, ensure equitable access for disenfranchised populations and promote social justice.

We address community challenges related to child welfare, health and behavioral health integrated care, substance use, poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, the growing aging population, and social change.

We educate students for micro and macro practice and leadership in government agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, and non-traditional settings.