The social welfare minor introduces students to both historical and present-day issues of public good. It focuses on the development of social welfare and the behavior of individuals and families in the context of their social environment. Five classes are required for the minor.

The minor helps provide a comprehensive understanding of the social welfare system in the United States, the values behind it, and the social issues facing social workers in the coming years; it does not provide the specific skills needed for actual social work practice. The minor also introduces students to theories of Human Behavior and the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics.

Graduate schools of social work examine the coursework taken in approved, accredited undergraduate programs on a case-by-case basis. Some MSW programs may grant credit for some coursework taken in the social welfare minor. Students may not major in social work and minor in social welfare.