Social workers are everywhere—quietly making an impact in schools, hospitals, nonprofits, and even corporate boardrooms. Their work is essential to individual and community well-being. For many, social work is more than a career. It’s a calling.
At Concordia University Wisconsin, social work students are equipped to lead with compassion, competence, and conviction. Our Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program emphasizes ethical practice, Christ-centered care, and a deep commitment to serving others. Whether pursuing a traditional path or one of the field’s many emerging opportunities, Concordia graduates are ready to live uncommon lives of purpose and impact.
“At Concordia, we don’t just prepare students for a career; we guide them to become courageous advocates and compassionate leaders who recognize the God-given dignity and worth in every person.,” says Nichole Ostrowski, CUW’s BSW program director. “Our BSW graduates are equipped to create meaningful change with their skills, their voice, and their hearts.”
Places & spaces of great impact
Here are 11 settings where social workers serve—and how CUW prepares students to thrive in each one.
1. Healthcare settings
Social workers in hospitals, clinics, hospice centers, and rehab facilities support patients and families through medical crises, chronic illness, and recovery. They help people understand diagnoses, navigate complex systems, and access vital resources.
At CUW, students learn to care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—recognizing the sacredness of each life.
2. Mental health facilities
In psychiatric hospitals and community mental health centers, social workers provide therapy, crisis intervention, and ongoing support for individuals facing mental illness, trauma, or addiction.
Our students are trained in evidence-based practice while developing a deep empathy rooted in the Christian understanding of human dignity.
3. Corporate settings
Social workers are increasingly valued in employee assistance programs (EAPs), HR departments, and wellness initiatives. They promote mental health, mediate conflict, and create inclusive, supportive work environments.
Concordia’s focus on servant leadership gives graduates a unique edge in corporate settings—bringing integrity, care, and compassion to the modern workplace.
4. Nonprofit organizations
From domestic violence shelters to food banks and advocacy groups, nonprofit social workers are on the frontlines of social change. They manage cases, connect people with resources, and help communities thrive.
CUW social workers embody Christ’s call to serve, providing hope and healing to those often overlooked.
5. Private practice
Licensed clinical social workers in private practice offer counseling and therapy tailored to individual needs. They may work with families, couples, or individuals managing mental health, trauma, or grief.
Our graduates are prepared to offer ethical, client-centered care, and when appropriate, gently integrate faith into the healing process.
6. Correctional facilities
In jails and juvenile detention centers, social workers provide prevention and rehabilitation services, support mental health, and help people prepare for life after incarceration.
CUW forms students to serve with humility and purpose trusting in the redemptive power of grace and transformation.
7. Veterinary services
Social workers in veterinary clinics and animal shelters help clients process pet loss and assist veterinary staff with compassion fatigue and difficult ethical decisions.
This growing niche allows Concordia graduates to extend Christ-like compassion in creative and meaningful ways.
8. Schools
School social workers help students thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. Whether in K–12 or higher education, they manage crises, advocate for students, and work to remove barriers to learning.
CUW’s commitment to education and spiritual formation makes our graduates especially well-suited to support students holistically.
9. Policy and research institutions
Social workers also shape public policy. They work in think tanks, universities, and nonprofits to conduct research, develop solutions, analyze data, and advocate for just systems.
We prepare students to approach policy work with knowledge, conviction, and a Christ-centered vision for human rights.
10. Military and veteran services
From VA hospitals to military bases, social workers support active-duty members and veterans as they navigate trauma, housing, reintegration, and benefits.
Concordia students graduate with a deep respect for those who serve—and a readiness to walk alongside them with strength and compassion.
11. Government and public agencies
In Child Protective Services (CPS), Adult Protective Services (APS), and foster care systems, social workers protect vulnerable populations and advocate for safe, supportive environments.
CUW’s emphasis on justice, mercy, and service equips graduates to lead with integrity in these high-impact roles.
Further Reading:
- “From classroom to community: The ripple effects of Social Work Education run deep.”
- “Guiding Values of the Social Work Profession”
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. If you’re passionate about helping others, social work could be the career for you. Concordia’s Bachelor of Social Work program combines rigorous academic training with hands-on field experience and a Christian worldview. Students even have the option to complete their BSW and Master of Social Work (MSW) in just five years. Learn more about CUW’s social work program, or connect with BSW Program Director Nichole Ostrowski at Nichole.Ostrowski@cuw.edu.