School of Social Work

Mission Statement

The Salem State College School of Social Work, as part of a comprehensive publicly-supported institution of higher learning, educates undergraduates (BSW) and graduate (MSW) students for generalist and advanced generalist practice. The School is committed to the advancement of knowledge through study, practice, and research in selected areas of social work and social welfare. Its goal is the achievement of the highest standards of teaching, scholarship, and community service. The School promoted effective functioning of individuals, families, groups, institutions, and communities. The School provides programs of excellence to meet the multiple needs of professional social workers and to respond pro-actively to changing labor market conditions.

The BSW and MSW programs prepare students to work with all people in need of social services with particular emphasis on those seeking services from public sector, publicly-funded, and community-based organizations. The School trains students to provide leadership in meeting the human service needs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the region, national, and international communities. The core of this mission is a commitment to promote social and economic justice by working with vulnerable groups facing discrimination, poverty, and social marginalization. The School sensitizes students to widely varying perspectives and diverse groups within our multi-cultural society. The N.A.S.W. Code of Ethics provides the overarching framework for the implementation of all programs and practices in the School.