BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
INFORMATION PACKET & APPLICATION
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
APPLICATION DEADLINES
Deadline to submit application:
March 1st
(All prerequisites must be completed by the end of the Spring Semester)
Deadline to submit application:
October 1st
(All prerequisites must be completed by the end of the Fall Semester)
NOTICE OF ADMISSION
Students will be notified by mail of their admission status approximately 3-4 weeks
after the deadline date.
Failure to return a complete application packet by the due date will automatically eliminate you
from consideration for admissions at that time. What this means, in effect, is that you will only
be able to take social work courses approved for the minor in social work.
GENERAL INFORMATION

Read all instructions carefully

Complete all applicable information and sign in the appropriate places

This professional program is an extended major consisting of a sequence of courses,
including 480 hours of field placement, building upon prerequisite course
requirements leading to a Bachelors of Social Work.

It is vital that all Social Work majors meet with an Academic Advisor to discuss
course pre-requisites, co-requisites, and develop an academic plan for completion of
all degree requirements. Some courses are only offered once a year (Fall term only
or Spring term only). Some of these courses may have pre-requisites or be prerequisites for future courses.
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GREETINGS FROM SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Dear Prospective BSW Student:
Thank you for your interest in the Baccalaureate Social Work Program at Northern Arizona
University. Are you passionate about social justice and social change? Do you want a rewarding
career working with the disenfranchised, vulnerable, and oppressed? Are you interested in
providing assistance and support to diverse individuals, groups, and communities? A social
work degree will help you accomplish these academic and professional goals.
The Social Work major will provide you with the professional knowledge, values, and skills
needed to help people experiencing overwhelming life challenges such as substance abuse,
domestic violence, child abuse, homelessness, and death, as well as mental, behavioral, and
physical illness or disability. Social workers approach their work with people from the strengths
perspective, while also looking at the individual within their environment. Social workers also
advocate for social change and become involved in the political process. Our accredited BSW
degree enables you to become a licensed generalist social worker in many states.
The NAU Social Work degree is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and
is only offered on the Flagstaff Mountain Campus. The program’s teaching, research, and
service activities address needs of individuals, families, and communities. Our skilled and
knowledgeable faculty is prepared to help you be successful in all facets of your Social Work education.
We welcome your interest in the Social Work Program and look forward to reviewing your
completed application.
Sincerely,
Natalie Cawood, Ph.D., M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
Assistant Professor & Social Work Program Coordinator
PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Northern Arizona University Social Work Program, grounded in the history,
purpose, and values of the profession, is to educate competent generalist social workers for
practice with diverse populations and multi-level social systems in local, regional and global
contexts.
The generalist practice for which we educate is based on social work knowledge, values, and
skills; geared to practice with rural and Indigenous populations of the Southwest; and focused on
addressing poverty, structural racism, and oppression; providing leadership in promoting human
rights and social and economic justice; and service with vulnerable and underserved populations
locally, regionally, and globally.
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BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION:



Minimum cumulative 2.25 GPA at time of admission and throughout the program.
Have completed 24 credit hours by the end of semester of application.
Completion of Introduction to Social Work with a grade of B or better by end of semester
of application.
BY THE APPLICATION DEADLINE, APPLICANTS MUST:
1. Apply to Northern Arizona University at:
Northern Arizona University
Undergraduate Admissions
P.O. Box 4084
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
http://home.nau.edu/admissions/undergrad.asp
2. Submit a complete Social Work Program application:
Be sure to include:
1. Admissions Application Data Sheet
2. Statement of Educational and Career Goals (typed/ 3-5 pages/ double spaced)
3. Unofficial College/University transcripts (one (1) copy from each institution attended)
4. Two (2) Letters of Reference in sealed envelopes with signature on seal. (Letters of
reference should come from either academic or professional contacts and can be
obtained from previous instructors, supervisors, employers, volunteer supervisors, or
clergy.)
DROP OFF COMPLETED APPLICATIONS AT THE FOLLOWING
LOCATION:
Flagstaff:
Social and Behavioral Sciences Building (#65)
Room 330 (3rd Floor)
OR MAIL TO:
Social Work Program Admissions
PO Box 15300
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
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BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
FINGERPRINT POLICY
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work Degree at Northern Arizona University are
required to obtain a fingerprint clearance card after they are offered, and accept admission into
the program. Many social service agencies require that students have obtained a fingerprint card
in order to engage in work at that agency. According to Arizona State Law, a fingerprint
clearance card is required to work and care for children, the elderly, and vulnerable adults. All
Department of Economic Security (DES) employees are required to obtain a fingerprint card.
Fingerprint clearance is also required at the time of application for AZ Social Work Licensure.
Upon being offered admission to the Social Work Program, students will be advised of the
fingerprint requirement, and the program will provide an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance
application form. All fees associated with obtaining the fingerprint clearance card are the
responsibility of the student. Fingerprint Clearance Cards must be applied for within the
semester of acceptance, and obtained prior to applying for Social Work Field Placement
(SW 408). The entire Social Work Program Fingerprint Policy, including information for
students with past felonies/misdemeanors and frequently asked questions about applying for a
fingerprint card, can be viewed in the BSW Field Manual located on the BSW Program website.
DISABILITY SUPPORT SERVICES (DSS)
Undergraduate Admissions:
All programs at Northern Arizona University are open to qualified students. Special services for
students with disabilities are available by contacting a Disability Support Service Coordinator in
the office of Disability Support Services. Students are advised to provide documentation to DSS
at least eight (8) weeks prior to attending NAU so that arrangements can be made to meet
individual needs. Questions may be directed to Disability Support Services, P.O. Box
5633, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, or call 928-523-8773; TTY 928-523-6906; FAX 928-523-8747.
OFFICE OF AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
Northern Arizona University and the Social Work Program do not discriminate on the basis of
age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, disability, or veteran status in admissions,
employment, or educational programs and activities, as required by Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as
amended; the Civil Rights Act of 1990, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967.
Northern Arizona University’s policy on nondiscrimination is augmented by the voluntary
affirmative action policies of Executive Order 11246, Section 503, of the Rehabilitation Act and
the Vietnam Era Veteran’s Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973 as amended.
Inquiries regarding the application of these regulations may be made to:
Office of Affirmative Action
Coordinator of Section 504
P.O. Box 4083
Americans with Disabilities
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
P.O. Box 6045
928-523-3312
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
928-523-2261
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BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
ADMISSIONS APPLICATION DATA SHEET
Name (Last, First, MI)
NAU ID#
Current Street Address
Current Phone
City, State, Zip
Cell Phone
Permanent Street Address
Permanent Phone
City, State, Zip
Email Address
Credit Hours Completed: __________
Cumulative GPA: _________
Which BSW program option are you applying for:
Are you currently enrolled in courses at NAU:
Are you a transfer student:
yes
SW 220 Grade: __________
Flagstaff Mountain Campus
yes
Online
no
no If yes, list transfer institution: ________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
EDUCATION
List all community colleges and universities attended (most recent first).
Institution
City, State
Dates Attended
Major
Scholastic Distinctions (honor societies, scholarships, awards, etc.).
Additional significant education (summer courses, workshops, etc.).
List memberships in professional organizations (indicate leadership positions held).
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Degree
GPA
EXPERIENCE
List employment (including student wage/work study and military service) and volunteer experience in
social work or related areas. List latest experience first. If more space is needed, attach additional
pages. We may contact agencies listed.
Agency Name/Address
Dates (mm/yyyy)
From:
/
Hrs/Wk
To:
/
Supervisor Name
Status
paid
Phone
volunteer
Position held
Status
paid
Phone
volunteer
Status
paid
Phone
volunteer
Description of duties
Agency Name/Address
Dates (mm/yyyy)
From:
/
Hrs/Wk
To:
/
Supervisor Name
Position held
Description of duties
Agency Name/Address
Dates (mm/yyyy)
From:
/
Hrs/Wk
To:
/
Supervisor Name
Position held
Description of duties
REFERENCES
Please list from whom we can expect to receive reference letters. It is your responsibility to include
them in your application. The letters should be from faculty, employers, religious leaders
or other professionals who can attest to your potential.
Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone
Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone
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BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
STATEMENT OF EDUCATIONAL AND CAREER GOALS
A three to five page typewritten, double-spaced paper is required. It will be used to assess your
written communication skills and to evaluate your knowledge of your career choice, your
commitment to the social work profession, and your understanding of and commitment to the
mission of the NAU Social Work Program (see attached Program Mission Statement).
In order for the Admissions Committee to evaluate your statement,
it is necessary for you to SEPARATELY address each of the following areas.
Please answer each area as thoroughly as possible.
1. Identify experiences and/or relationships that have influenced your selection of social
work as your professional career (family, education, volunteer involvements, employment,
etc.).
2. Based upon your personal experiences, discuss what you see as your strengths and
weaknesses.
3. Professional values are intrinsic to social work. What personal experience demonstrates
your awareness of and sensitivity to issues of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual
orientation and disability?
4. What is your understanding of the responsibilities of the social work profession,
generally and specifically, the role and responsibilities that you wish to be able to assume
as a professional social worker?
5. Describe how you perceive our Program Mission Statement to relate to your career goals.
6. If applicable, please explain any concerns you may have that could impact your
professional education in the NAU Social Work Program such as health, housing,
financial, academic preparation, day care, etc. that you believe that admissions committee
needs to know.
How did you hear about the NAU Social Work Program?
To the best of my knowledge, the information in this application is accurate and complete.
_______________________________________________
Signature
Page 7 of 11
________________________
Date
LETTER OF REFERENCE
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
Northern Arizona University • PO Box 15300 • Flagstaff AZ 86011
928.523.2979
To be completed by the Applicant
Name of applicant: (please print/type) __________________________________________________________________________
I (do / do not ) give permission to the NAU Social Work Program Admissions Committee to make contact with my
reference if they deem it necessary to clarify any concerns or have additional questions.
Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date ____________________________
To be completed by the Reference
The above student is applying for admission or the NAU Social Work Program (BSW). You have been selected by the
applicant as someone who will be helpful to us in evaluating his/her readiness, motivation, and qualifications for the
program and for the profession of social work.
1. How long and in what connection have you known the applicant? _____________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Please rate the applicant relative to other students or employees you have known in the same field in recent years
placing an “X” in the box that best represents where the candidate lies on the continuum. Explain as needed in the
comment section.
1-Exceptional
CATEGORY
1.
Learning Potential
2.
Initiative
3.
Social Concern
4.
Appreciation for difference in
others
5.
Self-discipline
6.
Problem-solving ability
7.
Ease in relating
8.
Dependability
9.
Creativity
10. Communication skills:
ORAL
11. Communication skills:
WRITTEN
12. Communication skills:
READING
13. Appreciation of rural issues
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2-Good
1
3-Average
2
3
4
4-Below Average
5
N
5-Problematic
N-Not Observed
COMMENTS
3. Additional Comments (optional).
We believe that such personal qualities as intelligence, maturity, emotional stability, sensitivity, resourcefulness,
initiative, follow-through, sound judgment and a concern for the well-being of others are important for successful
professional practice in social work. Please assess the applicant’s academic and/or professional promise within this
context.
4. Summary Evaluation (please check only one)
I strongly recommend this applicant for admission and believe that he/she has the capability to
perform at a superior level.
I recommend this applicant for admission and believe his/her performance will be comparable to
that of most undergraduate social work students.
I think that the applicant’s qualifications are marginal, but if admitted, the applicant would greatly
benefit from study in the program
I do not recommend this applicant for admission to the NAU Social Work Program.
Signature __________________________________________________________
Date _________________________________
Name (please print) _________________________________________________
Phone _______________________________
Employer _________________________________________________
Position _______________________________________
Business Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City _________________________________________________
May we call you for additional information?
Yes
State ____________________
Zip ____________________
No
Please return your letter of reference directly to the applicant in a sealed envelope. Please sign the sealed
envelope on the back over the closed flap.
Thank you.
Page 9 of 11
LETTER OF REFERENCE
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
Northern Arizona University • PO Box 15300 • Flagstaff AZ 86011
928.523.2979
To be completed by the Applicant
Name of applicant: (please print/type) __________________________________________________________________________
I (do / do not ) give permission to the NAU Social Work Program Admissions Committee to make contact with my
reference if they deem it necessary to clarify any concerns or have additional questions.
Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date ____________________________
To be completed by the Reference
The above student is applying for admission or the NAU Social Work Program (BSW). You have been selected by the
applicant as someone who will be helpful to us in evaluating his/her readiness, motivation, and qualifications for the
program and for the profession of social work.
1. How long and in what connection have you known the applicant? _____________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Please rate the applicant relative to other students or employees you have known in the same field in recent years
placing an “X” in the box that best represents where the candidate lies on the continuum. Explain as needed in the
comment section.
1-Exceptional
CATEGORY
14. Learning Potential
15. Initiative
16. Social Concern
17. Appreciation for difference in
others
18. Self-discipline
19. Problem-solving ability
20. Ease in relating
21. Dependability
22. Creativity
23. Communication skills:
ORAL
24. Communication skills:
WRITTEN
25. Communication skills:
READING
26. Appreciation of rural issues
Page 10 of 11
2-Good
1
3-Average
2
3
4
4-Below Average
5
N
5-Problematic
N-Not Observed
COMMENTS
5. Additional Comments (optional).
We believe that such personal qualities as intelligence, maturity, emotional stability, sensitivity, resourcefulness,
initiative, follow-through, sound judgment and a concern for the well-being of others are important for successful
professional practice in social work. Please assess the applicant’s academic and/or professional promise within this
context.
6. Summary Evaluation (please check only one)
I strongly recommend this applicant for admission and believe that he/she has the capability to
perform at a superior level.
I recommend this applicant for admission and believe his/her performance will be comparable to
that of most undergraduate social work students.
I think that the applicant’s qualifications are marginal, but if admitted, the applicant would greatly
benefit from study in the program
I do not recommend this applicant for admission to the NAU Social Work Program.
Signature __________________________________________________________
Date _________________________________
Name (please print) _________________________________________________
Phone _______________________________
Employer _________________________________________________
Position _______________________________________
Business Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City _________________________________________________
May we call you for additional information?
Yes
State ____________________
Zip ____________________
No
Please return your letter of reference directly to the applicant in a sealed envelope. Please sign the sealed
envelope on the back over the closed flap.
Thank you.
(Revised 6/2013)
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