Key Takeaways
- Campbellsville University is the leading provider of CSWE-accredited social work degrees in Campbellsville, Kentucky.
- Students can pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) on campus or online.
- Programs meet Kentucky licensure requirements for CSW and LCSW credentials.
- Field placements in central Kentucky provide hands-on experience in hospitals, schools, and community agencies.
- Graduates benefit from strong regional demand and competitive social work salaries across Kentucky.
Why Study Social Work in Campbellsville, Kentucky?
Campbellsville, located in central Kentucky, offers a community-focused environment aligned with the mission of social work. Students gain direct exposure to rural and small-city service settings where professionals address poverty, mental health access, substance use, family services, and faith-based outreach.
While Kentucky features several respected social work programs across the state, Campbellsville stands out for its local accessibility, flexible learning formats, and nationally accredited curriculum designed to prepare graduates for professional licensure.
Top Social Work Programs in Campbellsville
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville University is the primary institution offering accredited social work degrees within the city. Its programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the gold standard for academic quality and professional preparation.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
- Format: On-campus and online
- Accreditation: CSWE accredited
- Field Requirement: Supervised practicum experience
- Licensure Path: Prepares graduates for Certified Social Worker (CSW) track with advanced standing eligibility for MSW programs
The BSW curriculum emphasizes human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, ethics, and direct practice skills. Students complete field education in local agencies such as healthcare facilities, child advocacy centers, schools, and nonprofit organizations.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Format: Online and on-campus options
- Advanced Standing: Available for BSW graduates
- Specialization Focus: Clinical and advanced generalist practice
- Licensure Path: Meets requirements for Kentucky LCSW
The MSW program builds clinical assessment, intervention, and leadership skills. Students can tailor field placements to areas such as mental health counseling, school social work, medical social work, and community leadership.
Program Comparison: Top Social Work Options Near Campbellsville
University Distance from Campbellsville CSWE Accredited Online Option Estimated Tuition Range Campbellsville University In-city Yes Yes $26,000 to $30,000 per year (undergrad est.) University of Kentucky Approx. 85 miles Yes Yes (MSW) $31,000+ per year (in-state est.) Western Kentucky University Approx. 90 miles Yes Yes (MSW) $27,000+ per year (in-state est.)
For students seeking to remain in Campbellsville or pursue flexible schedules, Campbellsville University offers the most accessible and community-connected option.
Accreditation and Kentucky Licensure Path
Choosing a CSWE-accredited program is essential. In Kentucky, social workers must complete an accredited degree to pursue licensure through the Kentucky Board of Social Work.
Licensure Levels in Kentucky
- CSW: Requires MSW degree and supervised experience
- LCSW: Requires MSW, supervised clinical hours, and examination
Campbellsville University’s MSW aligns directly with these requirements, ensuring graduates can pursue professional licensing without additional academic coursework.
Field Placement and Hands-On Training
Field education is the cornerstone of professional preparation. Students complete supervised placements in:
- Hospitals and health clinics
- School systems
- Community mental health centers
- Substance use recovery programs
- Faith-based outreach organizations
These experiences provide real client interaction and skill development under licensed supervisors. Rural and regional placements also build high-demand competencies in trauma-informed care and community resource coordination.
Career Outcomes for Social Work Graduates in Kentucky
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for social workers is projected to grow nationwide. In Kentucky, demand remains strong in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health services.
Common Career Paths
- Clinical Social Worker
- Medical or Healthcare Social Worker
- School Social Worker
- Child and Family Services Specialist
- Substance Abuse Counselor
Salary Insights in Kentucky
Average annual salaries for social workers in Kentucky typically range from $45,000 to $65,000 depending on specialization and licensure. Licensed Clinical Social Workers often earn higher salaries, particularly in private practice or hospital settings.
Graduates who remain in central Kentucky benefit from steady workforce demand, especially in underserved rural communities.
Faculty Expertise and Academic Support
Campbellsville University emphasizes teaching-focused faculty with professional field experience. Many instructors maintain licensure and bring real-world perspectives into coursework.
Students also benefit from:
- Small class sizes
- Personalized academic advising
- Faith-integrated ethical instruction
- Online learning support services
This supportive structure contributes to strong student satisfaction and progression rates.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Flexibility
Cost is a major factor when choosing the best social work degree. Campbellsville University offers competitive private tuition with access to:
- Federal financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Transfer credit opportunities
- Flexible online scheduling for working adults
Online MSW pathways are especially attractive to professionals already employed in human services fields who need scheduling flexibility.
Who Should Choose Campbellsville for Social Work?
A social work degree in Campbellsville is ideal for:
- Students seeking a faith-informed educational environment
- Working professionals needing online flexibility
- Individuals planning to practice in Kentucky
- Students wanting rural and community-centered field experience
For those prioritizing local access, accredited preparation, and practical field training, Campbellsville offers a highly focused and accessible pathway into professional social work practice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Social Work Degrees in Campbellsville, Kentucky
What social work degrees can you earn in Campbellsville, Kentucky?
In Campbellsville, you can earn a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) through Campbellsville University, with both on-campus and online options.
Is Campbellsville University’s social work program CSWE accredited?
Yes. Campbellsville University’s BSW and MSW programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which is required for social work licensure in Kentucky.
Can you complete the BSW or MSW online at Campbellsville University?
Yes. You can complete both the BSW and MSW in online formats, with field placements arranged in approved agencies near where you live or in central Kentucky.
Do Campbellsville social work programs meet Kentucky licensure requirements?
Yes. The MSW program is designed to meet Kentucky requirements for Certified Social Worker (CSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials, including the needed coursework and supervised hours.
What kinds of field placements can you access in or near Campbellsville?
You can complete supervised field placements in hospitals, schools, community mental health centers, substance use programs, and faith-based or nonprofit agencies across central Kentucky.
What are typical social work salaries in Kentucky after graduation?
In Kentucky, many social workers earn about $45,000 to $65,000 per year, with Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) often earning more, especially in hospitals or private practice, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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