BSW Application Process

The BSW program is currently accepting applications for Fall 2026. The priority deadline for applications is January 31, 2026. While we will continue to review applications as space allows through the spring semester, students are strongly encouraged to apply before the priority deadline to ensure review.

Students planning to apply should meet with a PreSOWK advisor for your campus (main or global) to ensure eligibility and receive access to the application. Students with questions about the application itself may reach out to the social work admissions chairs.  Contact information is provided below.  Students who are already admitted or may contact the social work academic advisor for assistance and next steps.

Central Advising Main Campus (PreSOWK Advisors)

Letty Gallegos lettyg@nmsu.edu 

Johanna Nelson jopan25@nmsu.edu 

Global Advising (PreSOWK Advisors)

Jarod Gonzales jarodg@nmsu.edu 

Global Advising globaladvising@nmsu.edu 

Social Work Academic Advising

Martin Arvizuo jarvizuo@nmsu.edu

Social Work Admissions Chairs

Stacy Gherardi (sgherard@nmsu.edu) or Lucas Sanchez (luc@nmsu.edu)

Program Options

  • BSW – Main Campus
    Site-based program at NMSU in Las Cruces. Some classes are online, but most core courses require in-person attendance.
  • BSW – Global Campus
    100% online program through NMSU Global Campus.

Admission Criteria

  • Applications accepted every Fall semester.
  • Minimum GPA: 2.5 or higher.
  • Recommended: 60–65 credits completed (including general education and School of Social Work requirements).
  • No more than 3 outstanding prerequisites at the end of sophomore year.
  • No course credit is given for work or life experience (per accreditation).

📘 View the BSW Course Map.

Transfer Students

Main Campus

  • Must be tentatively admitted to NMSU–Main Campus before applying to the BSW program.
  • Schedule advising early:
    • 📞 (575) 646-2941
    • 📧 Letty Gallegos or Johanna Nelson (NMSU Central Advising)

Global Campus

  • Must be tentatively admitted to Global Campus before applying.
  • Schedule advising early:
    • 📧 Global Advising (Global Campus Advising)

What’s Required for the Application?

All application materials are available in the BSW Application Canvas course (you’ll be added after meeting with your advisor). A complete application includes:

  • Unofficial transcript
  • Personal statement
  • STAR Degree Audit

⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Admission Decisions

Applications are reviewed by the School of Social Work Admission Committee. Acceptance/denial letters are sent directly to applicants in time for advisement and pre-registration.

Contact

Paulina Palomino Pantoja
BSW Program Coordinator
📧 paulinam@nmsu.edu | 📞 (575) 646-2143

Undergraduate Pre-Social Work Academic Advisor 

Students who are interested in Pre-Social Work (PSWK) and the Bachelor of Social Work major should schedule an advising appointment as soon as possible by contacting the Undergraduate Academic Advisor assigned to Social Work: If you have any questions about being ready to apply you can schedule an appointment here. 

Advisors for BSW-Main Campus: 

Letty Gallegos
Academic Advisor, Ld
lettyg@nmsu.edu
Center for Academic Advising and Student Support
(575) 646-2941 


Johanna Nelson
Academic Advisor
jopan25@nmsu.edu
Center for Academic Advising and Student Support
(575) 646-2941 

Advisors for Global Campus:

Global Advising
globaladvising@nmsu.edu
Digital Learning
(575) 646-3865 


Jarod Gonzalez
Acad Advisor, Ld
jarodg@nmsu.edu
Digital Learning
(575) 646-2941