Social Work and Criminal Justice

The Department of Social Work and Criminal Justice at Olivet provides students with the preparation they need to be an influence for Christ in their communities, states, countries and the world. At Olivet, students learn and experience how to address issues with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities and systems. They gain the knowledge they need to serve and succeed in their careers.

For Olivet students, the distinguishing difference of an education in social work or criminal justice is the integration of faith. Both programs discuss and explore how personal faith influences professional practice. The historical and traditional influence of biblical and religious principles is considered and discussed relative to service, establishment and adjudication of law, and with respect to diversity.

Areas of Study

Criminal Justice >
Social Work >

Recognized Excellence

Olivet’s programs follow the standards set by professional organizations for both social work and criminal justice: Council of Social Work Education (CSWE); National Association of Social Workers (NASW); and Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS). CSWE has reaffirmed the program’s accreditation through 2024.

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Practical Experience

As they gain knowledge, students have many opportunities to use what they learn and practice their skills. Each year, Olivet students invest more than 20,000 clock hours serving with various agencies. They have the opportunity to prepare and present their research projects at national conferences, such as the North American Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW).

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Learn why Olivet’s dedication to faith and integrity have earned its rank as Illinois's number one Christian university.

Campus Visit

We offer several different ways for you to visit our beautiful campus! Whether you visit in person or online, choose a personalized visit or energetic event day, we want to show you all that Olivet has to offer.

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Apply to Olivet

It all starts here! We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. All completed applications receive equal consideration.

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Meet the Faculty

Hillary Cole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, department chair and a professor for Olivet social work and criminal justice. She is passionate about helping social work students learn to understand and appreciate, effectively asses, and appropriately incorporate client spirituality into their every-day practice.

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Opportunities Abound

Social Work and Criminal Justice majors can take advantage of learning experiences outside the classroom such as Advocacy Day in Springfield, the Roaring Tigers ROTC program, social justice club and ride-alongs with local law enforcement.

Take the Next Steps

Apply Today

Ready to take the next step? Applying takes only a few minutes and is a great way to get the ball rolling. It helps us know you are serious about college — and considering Olivet. We will take it from there!
 

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Visit Online

Explore campus with an online tour and set up a virtual meeting with your admissions counselor. Of course, you will want to come to campus as soon as possible, but our online visit should help you in the meantime.

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Excited to experience more? We’d love to plan a personalized visit just for you. Click below and we’ll schedule a time for you to travel to Olivet, take a campus tour, meet your admissions counselor and visit with a professor.

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