Honors Program

The BSW Honors program challenges students to see the world as presenting research questions that can be answered through the application of social work theories and values.

Students conduct their own research related to the social work field and write a thesis under the direction of a social work faculty member.

The BSW Honors Thesis Advisor is Yolanda Padilla, PhD, Clara Pope Willoughby Centennial Professor. For questions or to begin the honors application process, please contact the BSW Programs Team.

Email the BSW Programs Team
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Entering BSW Honors Program

  • UT Austin GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Social work GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Make a long-term advising plan factoring in honors courses with BSW advisor
  • Two long-semesters left before entering practicum
  • BSW Honors Program application

Graduating with Special Honors

  • Honors tutorial courses SW 679HA and SW 679HB with a grade of at least B- in each semester
  • Oral presentation of the honors thesis in a research colloquium open to the Steve Hicks School of Social Work community and public
  • UT Austin GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Social work GPA of 3.5 or higher