Chair's Welcome
Bienvendios and Welcome! I invite you to get to know the special community of students, staff and faculty that is our department of social work.
Our community is growing with the addition of an exciting new BSW program to complement our existing outstanding MSW program of social work educators and researchers advancing culturally competent social work practice and social justice, locally and globally. Working closely with our community partners as co-creators of new knowledge and innovative practices we are focused on leveraging impact and positive change that reflects our core values of inclusiveness, human dignity, rights, collaboration, equity and respect.
As part of a vibrant multi-cultural urban community, a burgeoning Hispanic-serving institution known for its cutting-edge research and excellence in education, we can offer a uniquely rich learning environment. Real-world community impact is a hallmark of our department, enhanced by the synergies afforded within our College for Health, Community and Policy and its sister disciplines. Explore our web pages to learn more and see where you can make your own unique contribution to our mission of bettering lives, systems of care, and the collective capabilities of underserved and marginalized populations.
Program Assessment
Please click here to download the Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes for 2020-21.
History
The UTSA Department of Social Work was founded by Dr. Dennis Haynes. It has grown significantly since its inaugural cohort of 17 students entered in January 2005. Initially, the program focused on meeting the needs of working professionals interested in attending school part-time, and all classes were offered in the evening. The program was fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) in 2008, with reaffirmation in 2012 and 2021, making it a CSWE accredited program through 2028. Graduates work in professional positions serving diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. They demonstrate commitment to social responsibility, cultural competence, and community collaboration within an inter-professional and global context.
The program has grown rapidly, with a current enrollment of over 200 students, and increased numbers of full-time students. A small number of day classes are now offered. This website introduces our faculty and their areas of research expertise, as well as our staff, including members of the Department of Field Education. Through the Title IV-E (SWEPT) program, we have also been able to offer the program to cohorts in Corpus Christi. The UTSA social work student body is diverse, with both non-traditional and traditional students representing a range of ages, ethnic groups, work and educational experiences, ideas, and interests. We strive to create a community of learners, incorporating a transformative education paradigm throughout all course work. Emphasis is placed on facilitating the transformation of students’ perspectives, so they in turn can facilitate the transformation of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Have an inquiry about our program?
We appreciate your interest in the Department of Social Work and extend our warmest welcome to you from the Department.
