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(Leavenworth, Kan.)—The »¨½·Ö±²¥ has extended its commitment to addressing some of society's most pressing needs by launching a Bachelor of Social Work program.

The new degree, which the Higher Learning Commission approved in February, will develop professionals focused on providing services that advance the wellbeing of others, promoting social and economic justice, and enhancing the lives of the communities and populations they serve.

The need for well-trained practitioners continues to grow as the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the overall employment of social workers will increase by 13 percent from 2019 to 2029.

"Social work is a rewarding career path that we are excited to bring to students at the »¨½·Ö±²¥," Director of Social Work Dr. Joe Squillace said. "USM's four core values – community, respect, justice, and excellence – are reinforced throughout our social work courses while emphasizing themes of social justice, citizenship, professionalism, integrity, and scholarship."

USM will begin offering social work as an undergraduate major during the 2021-22 academic year. Student applications are open for August 2021 enrollment.

The program has a unique practice-based curriculum, and students will conduct an internship in their senior year in the many social service agencies and institutions around Leavenworth. By graduation, students will complete 540 hours of internship work.

"»¨½·Ö±²¥ is excited to launch this meaningful degree program," said Dr. Michelle Metzinger, provost and vice president for academic affairs. "The Bachelor of Social Work program will build upon USM's tradition of excellence and help advance the lives of many people in our region and beyond."

To apply or learn more about the program, visit stmary.edu/BSW.

The »¨½·Ö±²¥ is a Catholic co-educational applied liberal arts university founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The University of »¨½·Ö±²¥ main campus is located at 4100 South 4th Street, Leavenworth, Kan. USM's Overland Park Campus at 4500 College Boulevard offers evening accelerated graduate and undergraduate degree-completion programs. The university also offers online programs. Visit  for more information.