Social Work, Minor
The social work minor is for students who want their education to connect to real people and real issues. In just 18 credit hours, students gain insight into how social systems affect individuals and communities — and how professionals work to create change.
The minor pairs well with many majors across the university, especially in health/pre-med, education, psychology, criminal justice, public health and the humanities. It helps students build skills in communication, empathy, problem solving and advocacy — skills that matter in almost any career.
Students considering a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) should note that a minor in social work does not qualify for advanced standing. Advanced standing is available only to students who earn a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
I am a biology major on the pre-medicine track with a minor in social work. My social work minor has enhanced my pre-med education by grounding me in seeing patients as whole individuals rather than solely through their clinical diagnoses. Through this program, I have learned to value each person’s lived experiences, relationships, and environment. My social work coursework has broadened my perspective on patient care and encouraged me to prioritize meaningful patient relationships and advocacy, shaping my goal of becoming a physician who practices holistic, patient-centered care." - Ayushi Sahu, Class of 2027
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work Required Courses | 9 | |
| SWRK 1000 | Introduction to Social Work | |
| SWRK 2300 | Human Behavior Social Environment | |
| SWRK 3300 | Social Work Practice with Individuals | |
| Social Work Electives | 9 | |
| Select three (3) of the following: | ||
| Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis | ||
| Mental Health & Crime | ||
| Social Policy for Social Justice | ||
| Dismantling Oppression: Exploring Equity & Inclusion | ||
| Social Work Practice with Groups | ||
| Social Work Practice with Families | ||
| Social Work Practice with Organizations & Communities | ||
| Research Methods for a Diverse Society | ||
| Total Credits | 18 | |
Continuation Standards
- Cumulative GPA of at least 2.00.
-
A minimum grade of C in all 1000- to 4000-level social work courses.
For admission questions, contact:
Social Work School Graduate Admissions Office
sswadmissions@slu.edu
314-977-2752
For program questions, contact:
Rachel Crowe BSSW program director
Assistant clinical professor of social work; Faculty field liaison rachel.crowe@slu.edu
314-977-3359
