The social work faculty is committed to assisting all entering students evaluate career goals and objectives to ensure that the student meets minimum academic standards and has an understanding of the philosophy and value base of the social work profession. An admissions procedure is intended to strengthen the student's certainty regarding this career choice and to enhance the student's focus and sense of purpose in curriculum planning. The first step in admission to social work program is to contact the departmental office located in Lakeside Hall, Room 214, 910-962-3872.

The Department of Social Work reflects the commitment of the social work profession to encourage diversity both in or society and in the profession. This commitment thus seeks the development of a community of students and faculty, which reflects the diversity of our regional community.

Students with Special Needs

The Social Work Program supports the profession's commitment to recognize and serve special populations; and in accordance with State and Federal law, does not discriminate or deny admission on the basis of disability to any disabled person who is otherwise qualified. In order to give students with visual, learning, motor, or other conditions or learning disabilities special assistance, the program must be cognizant of these needs. Although students are not required to reveal disabilities during the application process, such information will be maintained in confidence and will help the faculty and staff in planning and advising around special needs. If a student desires special assistance, it is suggested that she/he advise the Chair and/or the Director of Field Education.

Requirements for Admission in the Major

The nature of the educational goals for social work majors requires that admissions be limited and competitive.

Prior to completing the Application, students are required to contact the Department of Social Work secretary, Helene Harris, (PH: 962-3872, harrish@uncw.edu, Room 214, Lakeside Hall) to be assigned to meet with a member of the faculty. This faculty member will become your faculty advisor as soon as you are accepted into the social work major.

Regular Admission: Students are required to have an overall grade point average at UNCW of 2.40.

Application for Regular Admission: Following your conference with your assigned faculty member, students must complete the Application for Admission form and provide all the necessary documentation required.

Provisional Admission: Students with an overall grade point average below a 2.60 at UNCW but above a 2.0 may apply for provisional admission. Any student granted provisional admission must have a high probability of obtaining an overall grade point average of 2.60 within one semester from the time of provisional admission and before they can be admitted into the Field Practicum which is required for completing the baccalaureate degree in social work (BSW).

Students considered for provisional admission will meet with the department's coordinator of admissions, Dr. John Nasuti, to evaluate the probability of their obtaining the required grade point average to be admitted into the Field Practicum and to be retained as a social work major.

Application for Provisional Admission: The student must arrange a meeting with the coordinator of admissions and document the feasibility of his or her obtaining the required grade point average over the next two semesters. If there is a high probability that the student can meet this requirement, the student must complete the standard application form as well as the additional supplemental material asked for under the
provisional application requirements.

Transfer Students: Since transfer students do not have a UNCW grade point average, they will be required to accumulate a grade point average at UNCW of 2.6 within their first two semesters and prior to acceptance into the Field Practicum. It is important that transfer students recognize that you will not be able to continue in the social work major if you have not obtained a 2.6 overall grade point average within the two semesters.