Social work will join nursing, radiography, and health sciences as the newest degree offering at Aultman College.

Pending final approval from the Higher Learning Commission, the bachelor of social work (BSW) program will take its first group of students in fall 2018 and is now accepting applications.

“Working with area employers, we identified that one of the biggest needs is social workers with knowledge of the health care field,” said Dr. Amanda Espenschied-Reilly, dean of foundational education and health professions. “We felt that it was integral to our mission as an institution to serve this need by developing a relevant social work degree program: one that gives students a generalist approach, while incorporating unique classes and experiences in the health care field.”

Ron Davis, MSW, director of the social work program, explained that Aultman College’s program is unique in Ohio for incorporating curriculum about the U.S. health care system and even how different medications affect the brain. “Students can also minor in substance abuse, giving them a unique skillset that is in high demand with the opioid epidemic we are unfortunately experiencing in Ohio,” he said. “Our goal is for our graduates to leave understanding how to navigate the ever-changing health care landscape – a skill they will need to work with clients in any area of the social work field.”