From the Director’s Corner
Dear BSW Students,
As we close out another successful semester, I want to take a moment to say that I am incredibly proud of you. This semester required a lot from you. It required your time, your energy, your critical thinking, and on some days, your sheer determination to keep going. And here you are on the other side of it.
To those of you who are continuing in the program — take a breath. Reflect on how much you have grown since the first day of this semester (and academic year). The knowledge and experiences you have gained, the professional relationships that you have made, and the resilience you have built are all preparing you for the profession. Take it easy and stay curious about learning. The best is still in front of you, and we can’t wait to continue this journey with you.
To our graduating seniors — you made it! You came into this program with a purpose, and you are leaving it with the knowledge, the skills, and the professional foundation to move forward. Graduation is the beginning of your next chapter, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. Whether it is graduate school, the workforce, or a path that you have not imagined, take the lessons learned from the BSW Program with you.
It has been an honor to walk alongside each of you this semester. We do not take for granted the trust you place in our BSW Program, in the School of Social Work faculty and staff, and in the social work profession. We are excited to see the impact that you will make in Alabama and beyond.
Roll Tide,
Dr. Sherron Wilkes
Program Director, BSW Program
UA BSW Program
Mission: The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students at the baccalaureate level to become generalist social work professionals who are committed to the core values and professional ethics of the social work profession. Through rigorous education and community engagement, students develop proficiency in the knowledge, skills, and processes essential to professional practice that are anchored in the nine core social work competencies.
Aligned with the profession’s purpose to promote human and community well-being, the program is guided by the person-in-environment framework, a social justice education framework, a global perspective, respect for human diversity, and knowledge grounded in scientific inquiry. This purpose is actualized through the program’s pursuit of social, racial, economic, and environmental justice, the creation of conditions that support human rights, the elimination of poverty, and the improvement of quality of life for all people, locally and globally.
The program’s curriculum is embedded in the social work’s core values of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. These values shape both the explicit and implicit learning environment and affirm the program’s commitment to respect, collaboration, and accountability. Students learn how to advocate for vulnerable and marginalized populations and to promote the well-being of individuals, families, groups, and communities.
To learn more about our BSW Program, click here BSW Program.
Academic/Professional Advising
Advising– All students are assigned two advisors: an academic advisor to assist with educational plans in Degree Works and a professional advisor to help with career readiness.
If you have not met with your academic advisor for summer/fall registration, it is not too late.
If you have not received an email from your professional advisor and would like to schedule a meeting, please contact Renee Bell at renee.bell@ua.edu.
Important date – April 24th – Last Day to Withdraw from the Spring Full/Spring 2 Terms. This is the last day students have to withdraw from the term (all classes) without requiring approval from the student’s college Dean’s office.
Course Substitution- Occasionally, students wish to substitute another course for a required course. All such requests should be presented first to the student’s advisor, who will weigh the merits of the proposed course substitution and determine whether the content of the proposed course is appropriate as a substitute. If the advisor agrees, the advisor will recommend that the Program Director approve the substitution. The advisor will notify the student of the decision that is made, and a record of the substitution will be placed in the student’s file. Academic credit for life experience and previous work experience will not be given as a whole or in part in lieu of the practicum education course or any other course in the BSW Program.
Understanding Access Granted
“Access Granted” means your instructor has worked with the Supe Store to grant you special access to course materials at the lowest cost. This is the only option we provide for this course. You were automatically enrolled in the Access Granted program when you registered for the class. The course content is available on the very first day of class through your Blackboard account. Instructions on how to log in are sent to your Crimson e-mail and may also be provided by your instructor. The cost of the course content plus applicable sales tax will be added to your student account after the add/drop deadline. If you choose not to participate in the Access Granted program, you must opt out before the add/drop deadline to avoid the course material charge to your student account. You will then need to find the course materials on your own. Access Granted | University of Alabama Supply Store
BSW Practicum Education Program
Starting your practicum is a rewarding experience. As a student in our Experiential Programs, you’ll work with seasoned social work professionals to develop a responsible, analytical approach to social work practice and discover areas you’re passionate about serving to help others. Click here to learn more about our BSW Practicum Education Program.
Practicum Student Spotlights
Ella Bashara, BSW Practicum Student:
This spring, Ella completed 450 practicum hours with Sea Level Counseling in Norfolk, VA, and was supervised by Abby Morgan. Here’s what Abby had to say about Ella:
“Ella did a fantastic job and showed maturity, dedication, and dependability, along with self-regulation and care and concern for the sensitive information she was involved in. She was always willing and available for a learning opportunity and coordinated with much of our staff to enhance these opportunities. Her capstone project was better than I could have imagined—it was thoughtful and ethically minded. Our staff was very impressed by the considerations included and the culturally sound tone of the entire project. It was a fantastic experience for us, and I wanted to personally send my positive notes to you all about Ella and her contributions to Sea Level.”ghts here.
Undergraduate Research
Are you interested in engaging in undergraduate research? See resources below.
- Undergraduate Research & Creative Activity Conference (URCA)
- Student in Research Collaborative Action Training (SIR CAT) SIR CAT
For more research information, contact Dr. Nicole Ruggiano at nruggiano@ua.edu
BSW Student Spotlight
Meet Kenahdi Williams
Kenahdi Williams is a Main Campus freshman majoring in Social Work, and her first year has already been marked by meaningful growth, leadership, and service to the campus community.
Meet Ashleigh Godby
Ashleigh Godby, a Distance Learner in the University of Alabama’s BSW program, is an LPN who has successfully transitioned into the field of social work.
Student Organizations
Undergraduate Social Work Organization (USWO)
Hey everyone! We hope you are all having a great start to your summer. We apologize for the delay, but the time is here to vote for your next executive board! Please read each candidate’s statement of interest (in the recent email) and then click on the Google form where you can select your choice. We will leave this open until May 25th. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns! – Reece Helms, USWO President
Please reach out if you have any questions!!
Form:https://forms.gle/kd65dhUHAw9pEfpV7
Reece Helms, Junior School of Social Work Ambassador | Student Government Association Undergraduate Social Work Organization President
School of Social Work, Theatre and Dance
Student Government Association
Congratulations to the 2026-2027 SGA Senators!
Hello, my name is Elisa Robinson. I am deeply honored to share that I have been elected as the senator for The School of Social Work. My campaign was centered on three platforms: increasing engagement within the school, encouraging community service initiatives, and boosting readiness for the MSW and practicum. I look forward to working collaboratively to create Legendary Change and to ensuring every student in our School of Social Work feels supported, prepared, and empowered.
Thanks,
Elisa Robinson
- Student in Social Work and African American Studies
- Resident Advisor- Housing and Residential Communities
- Board of Directors Member- Council on Social Work Education
Hello! My name is Emmi Luther, and I am a junior Social Work major at The University of Alabama, with plans to graduate in December 2026. I currently serve as the 2026–2027 School of Social Work Senator in SGA and am actively involved in Pi Alpha and the Undergraduate Social Work Organization. I am passionate about service and leadership, volunteering with organizations such as Home and Place, STARS Academy, and Jeremiah’s Garden. I also serve as President of Delta Gamma and work as a Returning Orientation Leader with Parent and Family Programs. After graduation, I hope to pursue a master’s degree in Higher Education and work with college students, helping them become engaged and make the most of their university experience.
The University of Alabama
Phone 2055655355
elluther@crimson.ua.edu
Emmi Luther
Social Work Major, Social Work
For more information on the Student Government Association, click here: Student Government Association.
Professional Program
The BSW Professional Program is for currently enrolled students majoring in social work who are ready to begin taking 400-level professional social work courses.
Who Can Apply?
Social Work majors who have earned 54 hours in core requirements (this does not include electives) with the required overall and social work GPAs. Students must seek admission to the BSW Professional Program through the School of Social Work.
The deadline for Fall 2026 applications is now closed. Applications are under review.
BSW Practicum Education Program
Starting your practicum is a rewarding experience. As a student in our Experiential Programs, you’ll work with seasoned social work professionals to develop a responsible, analytical approach to social work practice and discover areas you’re passionate about serving to help others. Click here to learn more about our BSW Practicum Education Program.
BSW Practicum Placements
This spring, 12 BSW students in the School of Social Work successfully completed their practicum placements and are preparing for graduation on May 1st. This semester, our areas of reach included Alabama, Virginia, Texas, and Washington, DC. Congratulations to these wonderful BSW Practicum Students: Ella Bashara, Victoria Bradly, Gracelyn Bowerman, Kara Edwards, Thalia Filer, Sarah Ann Haynes, Marianna Miller, Raegan NeSmith, Kanira Pettaway, Jeremy Sullivan, Mallory Suski, and Ragan Hope Wilson.
We are thrilled to welcome our 16 BSW students as they begin their practicum education this summer, beginning on May 4th. Students are placed in agencies throughout Alabama, Florida, Texas, and Nevada. This experience will mark an exciting milestone in their social work journey – one where classroom learning meets real-world practice, and their passion, values, and skills come to life in meaningful ways. As they step into agencies and communities, they will gain invaluable hands-on experience, deepen their professional identities, and make a real impact alongside clients, supervisors, and colleagues. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and look forward to supporting them as they grow, learn, and lead with purpose throughout this experience. If you have any questions regarding your Practicum Education, feel free to contact Destiny Thomas.
Destiny Thomas, LMSW
BSW Practicum Education Coordinator
Email: dbmcfall@ua.edu
Practicum Student Spotlight
Ella Bashara, BSW Practicum Student:
This spring, Ella completed 450 practicum hours with Sea Level Counseling in Norfolk, VA, and was supervised by Abby Morgan. Here’s what Abby had to say about Ella:
“Ella did a fantastic job and showed maturity, dedication, and dependability, along with self-regulation and care and concern for the sensitive information she was involved in. She was always willing and available for a learning opportunity and coordinated with much of our staff to enhance these opportunities. Her capstone project was better than I could have imagined—it was thoughtful and ethically minded. Our staff was very impressed by the considerations included and the culturally sound tone of the entire project. It was a fantastic experience for us, and I wanted to personally send my positive notes to you all about Ella and her contributions to Sea Level.”
BSW Freshman-Sophomore Year Experience
Freshman-Sophomore Year Experience (FSYE) Our FSYE program is focused on our first and second-year BSW students. This group is a great opportunity to explore the various pathways in social work, connect with experienced professionals, and build relationships with your peers. Join us to discover the many opportunities available in your BSW program and beyond, while also making valuable connections that will support your academic and professional journey.
FSYE Lunch & Learn Series
Are you interested in attending the next Spring FSYE Lunch & Learn series? Join us for A Heart for Social Work: Pathways to Purpose, an engaging opportunity to explore your passion for social work and your future in the field. If you’re interested, please visit the FSYE page. We look forward to learning more about your plans to become a professional social worker and how we can support your journey toward success.
Relive the moments! Check out highlights from some of our FSYE Lunch & Learn Series.
UA Commencement Ceremony
Congratulations to our BSW Spring graduates! We are proud to celebrate your hard work, dedication, and accomplishments. Roll Tide!
Ellanor Sophia Bashara, Evie Louise Binder, Sierra Alexandria Blair, Gracelyn Bowerman, Victoria Marie Bradley, Caroline Price Brown, Kayli Burlingame, Hailey Nicole Chappel, Serenity G Covington, Kara Lynn Edwards, Morgan P Ehrhart, Thalia J Filer, Sarah Ann Haynes, Natalie Elisabeth Heiser, Karen L Horton, Olivia H Howell, Rebecca Faythe King, Aniyah Mykal Kingston, Margaret J Lewis, Marianna De’Janae Miller, Anastasia Michelle Mullins, Raegan Shyanne Nesmith, Kanira Monique Pettaway, John Riley Pyron, Lyric Se’Ana Rawlinson, Keri Stevens, Madison Jayde Stewart, Jeremy Sullivan, Mallory Jeffreys Suski, Reagan June Sutherland, Anna W Vandergriff, Lindsey Nicole Watson, and Ragan Hope Wilson.
Student Resources
UA ONLINE
- Your Academic Success Coach: Derrico’ Carr – Engineering, Interdisciplinary Studies (graduate), Human Environmental Sciences, Social Work
- Your Career Advisor: Susan Cowles – Undergraduate and Graduate Career Advisor Schedule an Appointment Phone: 205-348-6220 Text: 205-953-4880 Email: susanc.bama@ua.edu
UA FIRST GENS
Interested in being a part of UA FIRST-GENS? Click this link: https://students.culverhouse.ua.edu/firstgen/
BSW Scholarship
Students are encouraged to seek internal and external scholarship opportunities to help fund their graduate education. The BSW Program staff will intermittently reach out to admitted students to inform them of funding opportunities they may be eligible for. Students can also review this list of potential funding opportunities to explore.
Title IV-E Stipend Program
Title IV-E Stipend Program
Just a friendly reminder that stipend applications for fall 2026 graduates are due by June 1st.
Applications should be submitted no earlier than 30 days before the due date. Applications received after the due date will NOT be accepted.
Students must meet the following criteria to be considered for a Title IV-E stipend:
- Must be a BSW student who is preparing to enter their field placement, an Advanced Standing MSW student, or an MSW student in their second year with an emphasis on social work with children, adolescents, and their families.
- Have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a 3.0 or higher GPA for the last 30 semester hours of coursework.
- Must secure appropriate field placement with the assistance of the social work program Field Coordinator. Non-DHR employees must accept a field placement with a DHR County office. DHR employees must accept a field placement related to permanency in child welfare deemed appropriate by the Title IV-E Stipend Committee.
Applications and program information can be found on the program website.
Contact Melody Denton or Dr. Daphne Cain with any questions.
Academic/Professional Advising
Advising– All students are assigned two advisors: an academic advisor to assist with educational plans in Degree Works and a professional advisor to help with career readiness.
If you have not met with your academic advisor for summer/fall registration, it is not too late.
If you have not received an email from your professional advisor and would like to schedule a meeting, please contact Renee Bell at renee.bell@ua.edu.
Course Substitution- Occasionally, students wish to substitute another course for a required course. All such requests should be presented first to the student’s advisor, who will weigh the merits of the proposed course substitution and determine whether the content of the proposed course is appropriate as a substitute. If the advisor agrees, the advisor will recommend that the Program Director approve the substitution. The advisor will notify the student of the decision that is made, and a record of the substitution will be placed in the student’s file. Academic credit for life experience and previous work experience will not be given as a whole or in part in lieu of the practicum education course or any other course in the BSW Program.
Professional Development
The Career Center partners with students as they explore possibilities, develop skills, and connect with opportunities related to their professional endeavors.
Students can seek guidance selecting a major, planning a career, developing job-search strategies, and more. Our staff welcomes opportunities to speak to classes and student organizations about career preparation, professional school planning, and services we offer, and career consultants can help assess how personal factors influence career choices.
The Career Center hosts several career fairs and utilizes Handshake, a job and internship platform, to connect students, alumni, and employers. The center also facilitates on-campus interviewing and information sessions for recruiters interested in recruiting at the Capstone. Click the link below for more information.
The University Writing Center is open to all members of the UA community. We can help you build confidence, revise your work, and develop the skills necessary for long-term improvement. We offer feedback on any kind of writing, whether it is personal, professional, or academic. You can bring your draft at any stage in the process and get help with brainstorming, understanding the assignment, researching a topic, drafting, revising, working with sources, or improving your grammar & style. Click the link below for more information.
Upcoming Events
Suggestions for the BSW Newsletter?
Let’s celebrate our BSW community! ❤️
We encourage BSW students, faculty, and staff to contribute to this newsletter by sharing upcoming events, student accomplishments, and shout-outs for faculty, staff, or classmates who are making an impact in our School of Social Work community.
Submissions are welcome from everyone! Just email your contributions to renee.bell@ua.edu.