UB launches undergraduate minor in social work

By Matthew Biddle

Undergraduates can now explore the growing social work profession — and develop skills relevant for any career path — through the University at Buffalo School of Social Work’s new Minor in Social Work program.

Applications are now open for fall 2025. The 18-credit program is open to UB undergraduate students from any major who have a minimum overall GPA of 2.0.

Social workers improve lives in every corner of society — from working one-on-one with individuals and families, to leading agencies and nonprofits, to advocating for policy changes on large-scale, systemic issues. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the number of social work jobs will increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average growth for all occupations.

The new minor in social work will give UB undergrads an overview of the profession and key social work values, principles and skills. Students will explore how social systems impact individuals, communities and societies, and learn how social workers intervene to challenge injustice and help those in need.

A minor in social work complements undergraduate majors in a variety of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, law, gender studies, African American studies and health-related fields. Grounded in the School of Social Work’s trauma-informed and human rights framework, the curriculum incorporates social work core courses and electives, along with related electives from other UB departments.

Ultimately, the minor will help students develop their interpersonal, helping and policy analysis skills to prepare for graduate school or careers in service agencies, nonprofits, government, health care and other sectors.

“As society grapples with many urgent challenges, social work is more important than ever,” says Keith A. Alford, dean of the School of Social Work. “Through our new social work minor, students will see how they can use their skills in problem-solving, innovation and collaboration to serve others and uplift a population or community they care about.”

Filomena Critelli, associate professor and director of undergraduate studies in the School of Social Work, developed and oversees the program. For more information, visit socialwork.buffalo.edu/sw-minor or contact Critelli at fmc8@buffalo.edu.

Matthew Biddle
Director of Communications and Marketing
School of Social Work
Tel: 716-645-1226
mrbiddle@buffalo.edu