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Social Welfare
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare at the University of Wisconsin is designed for students passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities through social policy, human services, and social justice. This four-year, full-time program provides a comprehensive education in the theories and practices of social welfare, focusing on the intersection of social policy, human rights, and community well-being. Students will explore the structural and systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations, such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination, and learn how to develop and implement policies that promote social change and improve quality of life for marginalized groups.
The curriculum combines social theory with hands-on practice, giving students the opportunity to engage in fieldwork and internships in community organizations, government agencies, and social service organizations. Students will develop a strong foundation in social research, policy analysis, and program evaluation, with specialized courses in areas such as social work, public health, child welfare, and mental health services. Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared for careers in public policy, social services, advocacy, or community organizing, and can continue their studies in social work, public administration, or nonprofit management.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Social Welfare
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: Social Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Social Welfare and Social Policy
- Introduction to Social Welfare and Social Policy
- Principles of Social Justice and Human Rights
- Sociology of Social Problems
- Introduction to Social Work and Human Services
- Introduction to Social Research Methods
Year 2 – Intermediate Social Welfare and Policy Analysis
- Social Policy and Program Development
- Social Welfare Systems: Global and Comparative Perspectives
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment
- Social Work with Individuals and Families
- Social Policy Analysis and Evaluation
Year 3 – Advanced Topics in Social Welfare and Advocacy
- Mental Health and Social Welfare
- Child Welfare and Family Services
- Public Health Policy and Social Welfare
- Policy Advocacy and Community Organizing
- Social Work with Vulnerable Populations
Year 4 – Capstone, Internship, and Professional Development
- Capstone Research Project in Social Welfare and Policy
- Internship in Social Services, Public Policy, or Advocacy
- Advanced Topics in Social Welfare Ethics and Practice
- Nonprofit Management and Fundraising
- Professional Development: Career Readiness and Networking
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare from the University of Wisconsin have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and nonprofit sectors. Many graduates work in social services, policy advocacy, or community organizing, helping to design and implement social welfare programs that address issues such as poverty, mental health, child welfare, and addiction recovery. Others may pursue careers in government agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services, policy think tanks, or nonprofit organizations focused on social justice and human rights. Additionally, the program provides an excellent foundation for students who wish to pursue graduate studies in social work, public administration, public policy, or nonprofit management, where they can specialize in specific areas of social welfare and social policy.
Why Choose This Program
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare at the University of Wisconsin offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with the most pressing social issues of our time while learning the tools and techniques necessary to create positive, lasting change. The program’s interdisciplinary approach combines social theory, policy analysis, and practical experience through fieldwork and internships in real-world social service settings. Students gain the knowledge and skills needed to assess, analyze, and design social policies that improve the lives of individuals and communities. With a focus on social justice, advocacy, and community development, graduates are well-prepared to enter careers in social services, public policy, and nonprofit management, where they can actively contribute to making the world a fairer and more equitable place. The program also offers opportunities for professional development and networking, helping students build the skills and connections they need to succeed in the competitive field of social welfare and policy.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
