The mission of the Bachelors of Arts in Social Work program is to prepare students for beginning generalist social work practice responsive to the challenges and resources present in rural areas in particular and in more populated areas in general. The BA Program is designed to help meet the need for entry-level practitioners in northern coastal California and the United States for entry-level generalist social work professionals.

Undergraduates develop an ability to analyze and critically evaluate research studies and apply the findings to everyday practice. Ethics and critical thinking are strongly emphasized for careers in schools, medical offices, child and adult protective services, mental health, legal work and international aid to refugees and immigrants. The BA Social Work Program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).