Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program has earned reaccreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), reaffirming PNW’s high-quality undergraduate social work curriculum and commitment to preparing students for licensure in the professional field.

“The social work program at PNW ensures students gain the knowledge and skills required to engage, enrich and advocate for the communities they serve” says Shreya Bhandari, professor of Social Work at PNW. “Our program has an outstanding reputation in the community and reaccreditation underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in social work education.”

PNW’s BASW program is an applied, license-eligible, professional degree program with a 25:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The curriculum aligns with the nine core competencies outlined by the CSWE and provides students with skills that are transferable to different settings, population groups and problem areas. PNW Social Work faculty members bring a wide range of cultural, research and professional perspectives to the classroom, enriching the learning experience. Students also engage with the local community through practicums, field trips, service learning and student organizations. 

Accreditation qualifies graduates to sit for the social work licensure exam, opening doors to professional practice. Graduates of PNW’s accredited BASW program may also be eligible to skip certain foundational courses typically required in PNW’s Master of Social Work graduate program, providing the opportunity to earn an MSW in one academic year through the Advanced Standing Program starting Summer 2026.

“Our BASW program equips students with the foundational knowledge needed for entry-level positions in mental health, education and other social service sectors,” says Bhandari. “By addressing regional needs and preparing students for graduate level education, we help retain talented individuals who are ready to contribute and make a difference in our communities.”

The reaccreditation process involved a rigorous, comprehensive review of PNW’s BASW program, including an extensive self-study, site visit and evaluation by the CSWE Board of Accreditation. During the three-year process, the program was evaluated on curriculum, faculty qualifications and student-to-faculty ratio. PNW’s reaccreditation is valid through June 2031.

For more information on social work programs at PNW, visit pnw.edu/behavioral-sciences.