Social Work Department Mission

The Social Work Department at James Madison University prepares social workers who are committed to addressing a broad range of social challenges and advocating for empowerment of diverse and vulnerable populations. Building on the foundations of ethical practice, generalist perspective and cultural humility, we prepare students to support and enhance individual, family, group and community well-being while promoting social justice and challenging systemic barriers to equity. We implement the mission of the social work profession through excellence in teaching, scholarly contributions and service with our local area, the nation and beyond. (Updated August 2021)

BSW Program Vision, Mission, and Goals

Vision

The BSW program graduates competent practitioners who are highly prepared for generalist professional practice as well as graduate education through exemplary commitment to ethical practice; diversity, equity and inclusion; and social, economic and environmental justice.

Mission

The BSW Program prepares generalist Social Workers committed to strengthening community life for diverse individuals, families, groups and organizations and promoting social justice through advocacy and action.

Goals

• To prepare students to work effectively in a broad spectrum of social service agencies to address poverty and challenge multiple forms of oppression, social injustice, and other human rights violations.
• To prepare students for life-long professional learning and advanced academic study by providing an environment geared toward achieving academic excellence.
• To advance excellence and integrity through the development of high-quality academic programs through high-impact teaching and engaged learning.
• To make contributions to professional knowledge through varied forms of scholarship.
• To respond to the profession and communities by providing service and continuing education opportunities