The WASC is one of six regional associations that accredit schools in the U.S. The western region spans California and Hawaii and a host of south Pacific islands.
The Council on Social Work Education is the national accrediting body for undergraduate and graduate social work programs.
Humboldt State now offers both undergraduate and graduate social work degrees online. One section of each required bachelor-of-arts course is available online each semester. The application process and program costs are the same as those of standard applications, although each online section is limited to 20-25 students.
The four-year master’s of social work combines online courses with campus intensives, and those classes will start January, 2012. Requirements, costs, and scheduling are listed on the MSW website. Applications will be accepted August 15 to September 15.
Professor Ronnie Swartz, Department of Social Work Chair, noted, “Our distributed learning BA Social Work and MSW programs advance our commitment to inclusive excellence and offer opportunities for rural and tribal communities to access high-quality education. Recognition by the WASC and the Council demonstrates the rigor of our program, our focus on outcomes, and our strong support of students.”
Social Work students receive preparation in entry- and advanced-level professional practice in public, private, tribal and community agencies, working with diverse populations. Emphasis is given to collaboration with Northern California’s indigenous populations.
Ribbon-cutting ceremonies to mark the inauguration of the new online Social Work programs are scheduled for Friday, September 9, 4:30-6:30 p.m., in the Foyer of Humboldt State’s Behavioral and Social Sciences Building
Information about HSU online programs is posted at the Distributed Learning Web site at humboldt.edu/dl.