WKU Glasgow News

WKU will launch a new online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) this fall, giving students the option to complete their degree in person at WKU in Owensboro or 100% online – or a combination of both.

All BSW students work as a cohort, meaning they progress through the program as a group. This format provides a setting for students to work closely together as they earn their degree. The new 100% online program will provide an additional option for adult learners throughout the region.

Assistant Professor Dr. Whitney Harper teaches social work courses at WKU in Owensboro and says the program offers in the region a unique, personal experience.

“Students in our social work program are very close,” said Harper. “They work together throughout the two years they spend in the program. They lean on each other and support each other in ways that have been so meaningful.”

Harper added that all students enrolled in the BSW program at WKU in Owensboro gain valuable skills that prepare them to serve in the social work field throughout the region. “Many achieve career goals after graduation,” she said. “Some also seek their MSW, which is only one year at WKU!”

BSW Program Director, Dr. Simon Funge, said that WKU’s Online BSW Program offers the same high-quality CSWE-accredited education as the more traditional face-to-face option ­ – just in an online format.

“We are so excited to announce this additional online program,” Funge stated. “Our students will receive the same outstanding educational experience, only in a format which will help us serve students who need the flexibility of an online program.” 

Most courses will be delivered asynchronously in 8-week bi-terms. Students will take two classes at a time on a Fall/Spring calendar and complete their two-semester internships at an agency in their community. Students also complete field studies, allowing them to turn the knowledge and skills they learned with the classroom into practical experience.

“While many courses at WKU in Owensboro were moved to online formats due to the pandemic, in-person courses will resume on campus this fall through our typical hybrid learning format,” said Dr. Beth Laves, associate vice president of extended learning and outreach. “We look forward to having students back on our campuses this fall,” she said.

Laves stated that WKU in Owensboro has completed a significant classroom upgrade project that allows students in Owensboro to connect with WKU classrooms throughout the region.

“These expansions will provide students with even more flexible, engaging learning experiences without leaving their community,” she added.

Students must apply for acceptance into the BSW program. The deadline for submission is April 1. Applications are available online. WKU in Owensboro will continue to offer the face-to-face degree option, as well. 

For more information about the program, visit the Online BSW Page. Details about the application process are available on the BSW Applications Procedure page.