Social Work Program at SUNY Plattsburgh

Social Work Program at SUNY Plattsburgh

Think You Know About Social Work? Think Again!

Are you looking for a future that brings you a sense of satisfaction along with a salary? Do you look at the world around you and say, "I want to make a difference?" If so, consider a career in professional social work!

Professional social workers provide help to people who are poor, disadvantaged, disabled, abused, addicted, ill, elderly, and those experiencing life crises, such as teen pregnancy, the death of a loved one, or HIV/AIDS.

"Human service is the highest form of self-interest for the person who serves."
-Elbert Hubbard

Social workers often find themselves fighting in the front lines in the battle to help those who are afflicted in our society. Social justice and social equality are the goals that professional social workers seek to achieve. They advocate for social, political, and economic conditions that support the well-being of all members of our society.

Learn how to make a difference through our social work program, which is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Social Work may not be what you think it is...

Professional Social Workers:

• Counsel adolescents in adventure‑based and wilderness programs
• Help children and adolescents succeed in school
• Assist victims of domestic violence
• Help those using and abusing addictive substances, like alcohol and drugs
• Create programs and policies that advance human rights and meet human needs
• Promote social change and social justice
• Earn salaries equal to those of teachers

The social work program at SUNY Plattsburgh is designed so you can:

• Develop your appreciation of human diversity
• Learn to work with people of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds
• Explore international aspects of human well‑being
• Become part of a friendly, active student community and student association that hosts social, cultural, educational, and service activities
• Prepare for employment or graduate school

Program of Study

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Social Work

Find Out More About This Program Directly from Our Students

Watch this student-produced video to learn about internship experiences, careers, and the reasons our students chose social work as a major.

Questions, Comments, Suggestions?

If you would like more information about social work at SUNY Plattsburgh, please contact

Lynne Soine, Chairperson
Office: Ward 101
Phone: (518) 564-4174
Fax: (518) 564-4161
E-mail: soinel@plattsburgh.edu