Social Work Minor

Social Work’s origins lie in the early twentieth century efforts to meet the needs of poor, neglected children, exploited workers, and other disadvantaged and disabled people. Today, social workers continue to be active in offering professional services to and advocating for those in need. They are employed both in private, nonprofit organizations and in government agencies. Many also offer services as professional consultants or counselors. Other social workers work in the public policy field, designing and advocating public and private programs that address the problems of the needy. Social workers are employed in such fields as child and family service agencies, drug treatment centers, hospitals and hospices, public health departments, social welfare agencies, probation programs, counseling centers, child care centers, and much, much more. More than most professions, social work is closely linked to the University’s Christian mission and its motto, "Freely ye received, freely give."

A minor in Social Work can be combined with a major in almost any field. Those majoring in sociology or psychology may find a social work minor especially helpful to their career goals, but those majoring in such fields as political science, economics, religion, communications, and others may find it equally helpful to them. A minor in social work will definitely help students gain admission to masters degree programs in Social Work. Some have even argued a minor is social work is essential to gaining admission to a strong graduate program in social work. It will also better equip students to secure employment in the human services field immediately after graduation with a bachelor’s degree.

Pepperdine University’s minor in social work involves two foundational courses in social work, several supplemental psychology or sociology courses, and an internship in the Los Angeles area in an appropriate agency. This curriculum provides students a good, solid foundation for pursuing graduate studies in social work or in securing human services employment directly after graduation.

Required Courses (15 units)

Choose two courses from the following (6-8 units)

NOTE: No more than 8 units from this minor may be counted toward fulfilling any requirements in either the Sociology major or the Psychology major.

Resources for Students