Apply to the BSW Program

Prepare for a career in social work. Apply to the BSW program at NMSU.

BSW Application Process

Here you will find all the information you need to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work Program at New Mexico State University. Explore available program options, review admission criteria and application deadlines, prepare your application materials, and take the next step toward becoming a social work professional.

Main Campus & Global Campus

The BSW program is available through two pathways:

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 of 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 standards)

BSW Course Map

Review the full course requirements for the BSW program in the NMSU Academic Catalog.

View the BSW Course Map

Transfer Student Information

Main Campus

Must be tentatively admitted to NMSU Main Campus before applying to the BSW program
Schedule advising early — contact Letty Gallegos or Johanna Nelson (See NMSU Central Advising Contacts below)

Global Campus

Must be tentatively admitted to Global Campus before applying to the BSW program
Schedule advising early — contact Global Advising (See Global Campus Advising Contacts below)

How to Apply

Students planning to apply should first meet with a PreSOWK advisor for their campus (main or global) to ensure eligibility and receive access to the application. All application materials are available in the BSW Application Canvas course — you'll be added after meeting with your advisor.

  • 1

    Meet With Your PreSOWK Advisor

    Schedule an advising appointment to confirm eligibility and gain access to the BSW Application Canvas course. Contact the advisor for your campus — see the Advising Contacts section below.

  • 2

    Complete Your Application Materials

    A complete application includes:

    Unofficial transcript
    Personal statement
    STAR Degree Audit
  • 3

    Submit Before the Priority Deadline

    Submit your completed application by January 31, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.


Admission Decisions

Applications are reviewed by the School of Social Work Admission Committee. Acceptance and denial letters are sent directly to applicants in time for advisement and pre-registration. Students who are already admitted may contact the social work academic advisor for assistance and next steps.


Advising Contacts

Students interested in Pre-Social Work (PSWK) and the BSW major should schedule an advising appointment as soon as possible.

Main Campus PreSOWK Advisors

Global Campus PreSOWK Advisors

Social Work Academic Advising


Program Contacts

Students with questions about the application itself may reach out to the Social Work Admissions Chairs or the BSW Program Coordinator.

Social Work Admissions Chairs

BSW Program Coordinator