Chair's Message

 

Welcome to the Department of Social Work at Albany State University, a proud Historically Black College and University (HBCU) with a rich tradition of academic excellence, service, leadership, and social justice. As Chair of the Department of Social Work, I am honored to build upon the strong foundation established by those who came before me and to continue the legacy of preparing compassionate, competent, and ethical social work professionals who transform lives and communities.

We celebrate the vision, dedication, and accomplishments of our previous faculty, administrators, students, and alumni whose efforts have shaped the department into what it is today. Their work laid the groundwork for a thriving program that continues to make a meaningful impact throughout Georgia, the nation, and beyond.

At Albany State University, we believe that every student brings unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations to the classroom. Our commitment is to meet students where they are in their learning journey, support their academic and professional growth, and create an environment where all students can succeed. We foster a culture of inclusion, belonging, respect, and excellence, recognizing that varied background experiences strengthen our profession and enrich our learning community.

The social work profession continues to experience significant growth, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting increased demand for social workers across multiple practice settings. To meet this growing need, Albany State University offers nationally accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) degree programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures that our graduates are prepared to pursue advanced education, professional licensure, and meaningful careers in social work practice.

Our Bachelor of Social Work program prepares students for generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students gain knowledge and skills through coursework in human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy, research, practice methods, and field education experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world application.

The Master of Social Work program offers specialized preparation in clinical social work practice with children, adolescents, families, and vulnerable adults. Students may choose from multiple program options, including traditional, advanced standing, and part-time pathways designed to accommodate diverse educational and professional needs. Through extensive practicum placements across Southwest Georgia and beyond, students integrate theory, values, ethics, and practice skills while serving communities and populations in need.

Both programs reflect the profession's commitment to promoting human well-being, advancing social and economic justice, and empowering individuals and communities. Guided by the person-in-environment perspective, our curriculum emphasizes cultural responsiveness, evidence-informed practice, advocacy, leadership, and an appreciation for the strengths and resilience found within individuals.

Our distinguished faculty are committed to excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and mentorship. They are active researchers, practitioners, and community partners who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into the classroom. Equally important, they are dedicated to supporting students as they learn, grow, and develop into professional social workers.

As a department within one of the nation's distinguished HBCUs, we embrace our responsibility to prepare future leaders who will advocate for equity, challenge injustice, and serve communities with integrity and compassion. Our alumni are making meaningful contributions in schools, healthcare systems, mental health agencies, child welfare organizations, government agencies, and countless other settings where social workers are needed.

Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey or advancing your professional practice through graduate education, we are excited to partner with you. Your experiences, voice, talents, and commitment to helping others are valued here. Together, we will honor the legacy of those who paved the way while preparing the next generation of social work leaders to create positive change in an ever-evolving world.

Thank you for choosing Albany State University and the Department of Social Work. We look forward to supporting your success and welcoming you into our community of scholars, practitioners, advocates, and change agents.

Dr. Quincy Dinnerson

Chair, Department of Social Work