Set to launch fall 2025, a new Boise State College of Health Sciences online bachelor’s degree builds flexibility into a purposeful study and career path for rural students, those juggling jobs, families and hectic schedules, incoming and transfer students and many others.
The online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work equips students, wherever they are, for meaningful positions and careers in social work and the skills to strengthen communities, with fieldwork experiences in their local areas.
The curriculum adapts Boise State’s social work degree to the online environment; the university’s social work program is the oldest in Idaho, having launched in 1966.
Statewide job data show a strong demand for licensed social workers in Idaho, and top jobs include behavioral health counselors, marriage and family therapists, child welfare, mental health, substance use and healthcare social workers. Boise State has responded to this need.
“This program is for individuals who are passionate about strengthening their communities and supporting people as they work toward meaningful, lasting change,” said Stefanie Gilbert, the School of Social Work clinical associate faculty member who will serve as the program’s coordinator.
Some of the program’s features and benefits are:
- Engaging with faculty who bring experience and expertise from across the field of social work.
- A supportive learning environment centered on fully online coursework with no out-of-state tuition, making it an affordable and flexible option for students, particularly transfer students balancing work or personal commitments while staying in their own communities.
- Boise State is the only higher education institution in Idaho that secures field placements for undergraduate social work students; the hands-on experience also supports students in building professional connections and career opportunities.
- The program adheres to the rigorous standards set by the Council on Social Work Education, ensuring a high-quality and well-respected educational experience.
The new offering is also meant to be a seamless bridge for students wanting to go further — Boise State already offers a Master’s in Social Work Online. Graduates with a bachelor of social work degree can complete their master’s degree in one year.
Students working on associate’s degrees at the College of Southern Idaho, the College of Western Idaho, in other parts of the state and across the region are among those who could benefit from the offering.
“There has been quite a bit of early interest,” Gilbert said. “While our priority is meeting workforce needs in Idaho, we welcome all interested students.”
Learn more about the new online bachelor of social work program.