Homelessness
Homelessness is a complex social problem that requires attention and support on many fronts. Incidence of homelessness can be impacted by the economic environment, shifts in policy priorities, wage and employment gaps, mental health, familial and social support, housing supply, and service provision. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported in 2016 that 549,928 people were experiencing homelessness in the United States., a 14% decline since 2010. Yet, homelessness continues to be a significant problem, and is one that the City of Long Beach, Long Beach State University (LBSU), and the LBSU College and Health of Human Services (CHHS) is collaborating to address.
The School of Social Work prepares a diverse student population for Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) and Master in Social Work (MSW) degrees for professional social work practice. Graduates are able to demonstrate competent and ethical practice with diverse and multicultural populations from a base that builds on advances in social work knowledge, values and skills; enhance the well-being and address the needs of diverse and multicultural populations across the life span; and advocate for social justice and social change and for elimination of oppression and discrimination.
Undergraduate Programs
The Graduate Center for Public Policy & Administration offers a NASPAA accredited MPA degree that is geared toward enhancing the excellence of public service in Southern California. The on-campus program offers students the convenience of evening and weekend classes in a challenging, yet comfortable academic environment. In addition to the general MPA degree, the GCPPA also offers options in Urban Administration or Public Works Administration as well as various certificate programs.
The School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management offers programs that are designed to provide students with an appropriate academic background for a professional career in corrections, law enforcement, probation, parole, and social security agencies. In addition, the programs are designed to prepare students for continuing graduate studies in criminal justice, criminology, and law.
