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Frequently Asked Advising Questions

How do I get into the BASW program?
  You must apply to both CSUSB and the BASW program. To get into the BASW program, complete the prerequisite courses; have an overall GPA of 2.0; achieve junior status (completion of 90 units); and earn at least a C grade in SW 200, CJUS 101, and Statistics. Applications to the BASW program are accepted in May and are available on the web site. (See the BASW admissions page)

 
Do all the prerequisite courses have to be met before I can apply?
  Most of them need to have been met. SW 200 is the one prerequisite that must be completed before a student can be accepted into the program.

 
What is a PAWS report?
  The Program Advising Worksheet for Students (PAWS) is an automated credit summary for undergraduate degrees that provides students with a listing of all coursework required for graduation from CSUSB. It allows students to map out their course selection at any point in their academic career by comparing the classes they have taken or are now taking to those they will need in order to complete their undergraduate degree program.

 
I am a new student, what courses should I take?
  The first priority for freshman students should be to complete their English and math requirements. Over the next two years, students should be working on completing the prerequisite courses for the BASW program and most of the CSUSB general education courses.

 
I am a transfer student, what courses should I take?
 

If you have been accepted to CSUSB, your PAWS report can guide you through the courses you need to complete for graduation. Be sure you are listed as a Pre-Social Work major so that your PAWS report accurately reflects the required courses.

If you have not received your PAWS report, you can go to www.assist.org and compare the courses you took at your community college to the general education requirements at CSUSB to see what requirements you have met. This will then allow you to come up with the list of requirements you have left to complete. Refer to the general education requirements in the CSUSB Bulletin of Courses for the list of courses to select from.

 
Who do I see for advising?
 

The advisor for the Pre-Social Work majors is Margaret Hughes, BASW Title IV-E Coordinator. You may e-mail questions to Ms. Hughes at mhughes@csusb.edu, or call and schedule an appointment.

 
How do I find out what I need to do to get into the BASW program?  
  Attend one of the BASW Program Information Sessions held each quarter. (See the BASW admissions page for dates)  
How long does it take to complete the program?  
  Two years. Because the social work courses are offered in sequence the time period cannot be shortened. (See BASW main page)  
What is the difference between the Sociology Department's Social Work program and the BASW?  
  The BASW within the Department of Social Work is a professional degree, nationally recognized through its accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education. All courses are taught by social workers and the field placement is supervised by Master's level social workers.  
Why are there so many prerequisites?  
  The program is based on a liberal arts foundation designed to help students develop the ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally, understand basic mathematical concepts, think critically, and gain foundation knowledge in the sciences and the humanities. These are all skills and knowledge that build a foundation for the professional social work coursework.  
Do I have to take those exact courses?  
  Applicants must complete or be close to completing all of the specified prerequisites courses or their equivalents before they can be accepted into the BASW Program. Equivalent courses may be taken at community colleges. (See Tips for Transfer Students)  
Can I enter the program in the winter or spring quarters?  
  Admission is granted only in the fall quarter due to the sequencing of the program. (See BASW main page and admissions page)  
How many students will be accepted?  
  Space in the program is limited. For this reason, it is best to apply by the end of the May deadline.  
When can I apply?  
  Applications will be available the first Monday in May. We recommend they be submitted to the Department of Social Work by 5 PM on the third Friday in May for early decisions. We will continue to accept applications after May as long as there are slots available. Applications may be obtained in the Department of Social Work, suite 402 or on this website. (See admissions page)  
I have taken an Introduction to Social Work course, why do I have to take it again at CSUSB?  
  The Introduction to Social Work course is designed to give an overview of the social work profession and work with students in deciding if social work is the correct career path for them. Students also write and receive feedback on their personal essays which are part of the application process. Students at a community college may use the cross-enrollment process to take SW 200 at CSUSB while still a student at the community college.  
Can I substitute Sign Language or another foreign language for Spanish?  
  Spanish is the language skill most needed in the Inland Empire. No other language can be substituted for Spanish, however students have the option of satisfying this prerequisite by passing a Spanish language exam offered by University.  
Can I still be considered for admission if I have prerequisite courses I will be taking in the summer?  
  Yes. The summer course(s) will be considered as work in progress pending the final grade in the summer course(s).  
How many hours is the field practicum and how do I get placed?  
  The field requirement is 16 hours per week during fall, winter and spring quarters of the senior year. In the junior year, students are surveyed on their placement preferences and needs. Most placements are arranged by the end of the student's junior year. (See BASW Field Practicum)  
Can I complete the field practicum on weekends or in the evenings?  
  The field practicum component gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge, skills and values to the profession under the supervision of an experienced social worker. Except in unusual settings, students benefit most from the field experience during the agency's regular business hours when adequate supervision and more client contact is available.  
   

 


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