The Social Work Program was created in 1976 in order to bring professional social work to thenorthern middle Tennessee region. In the past 26 years the program has succeeded in providing entry-level social work practitioners not only for the region, but also for the state, nation, andagencies abroad. The program offers students the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in social work. The Social Work Program is fully accredited by the Council on Social WorkEducation, receiving candidacy status in 1986, initial accreditation in 1989, and reaccreditation in1993. The program has grown to become a vital part of the university and to reflect the university’s mission.

ustin Peay is Tennessee’s designated comprehensive liberal arts institution. In ways similar tothose of a private institution, Austin Peay nurtures learning and personal growth through smallclasses, close student/faculty interaction, and personal attention by the support staff. The university respects the voice and value of every member of its learning community. A strong liberalarts core is an essential component in the development of social work students as well as for otherstudents in the university. Students, faculty, and staff from throughout the world enrich the liberalarts experience. This rich variety of thought and life experience fosters a deeper understanding ofour own and other cultures. The liberal arts core provides for all students a broad, multiculturalfoundation in literature, the arts, history, mathematics, and the natural and behavioral sciences.Curricula promote critical thinking, communication and information skills, leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning.