Bridging the Gap: Expanding Access to Social Work Education for Rural North Carolina Students
Presentation
Overview
Overview
Description
Students in rural North Carolina face significant barriers to higher education and persistent shortages of social workers. Launched in 2023, UNCW’s Human Service to Social Work (HS2SW) program addresses these challenges by offering a seamless transfer pathway for community college Human Services graduates to earn a BSW while remaining in their home communities. The program has expanded rapidly, now partnering with 25 community colleges and providing flexible online coursework, evening sessions, and locally based field placements. This presentation highlights the HS2SW model, cross-institutional partnerships, and strategies for supporting rural students while preparing culturally responsive social workers for underserved communities.
