Social Work Practice in Higher Education Specialization

Students on college and university campuses are coming into their own as individuals at the same time they face a wide range of stressors including but not limited to academic and social integration, developmental needs and identity development, balancing responsibilities, stigma and self doubt, economic challenges, interpersonal and institutional complexities or challenges. The Social Work Practice in Higher Education Specialization provides MSW students the opportunity to explore the vital roles that social workers play in addressing the complex needs of individuals, groups, communities, and organizations in higher education settings. It both prepares students for careers in the field and develops skills that are transferable to a wide range of practice settings.

Students in the specialization learn to apply social work theories and gain expertise in providing inclusive interventions, resources and support in response to a range of student development issues. They work closely with administrators, faculty, alums, and other key stakeholders in higher education institutions to serve students at the micro, macro, and mezzo levels.

Students may enter this specialization in their Specialized Practice year. Matriculated MSW students will receive application information from the MSW Program Office and Office of Practicum Education & Community Partnerships.

Learning Objectives and Opportunities

• Knowledge Development: Students will gain an understanding of the strengths perspective, identity formation, intersectionality, and assessment and solutions-focused interventions within the specialization
• Practicums: Students will be placed in a practicum opportunity in a higher education setting
• Skill Development: Dependent on their practicum placement sites, students will have the opportunity to develop essential skills such as:
  • Crisis intervention strategies
  • Group facilitation and presentation
  • Higher education administration in practice
  • Policy analysis and risk management
  • Organizational assessment
  • Research and advocacy 
  • Program development and event planning 
  • Project management
  • Civic and civil awareness and engagement
  • And more
• Financial Support: An associated stipend may be available for select practicum opportunities.
• Seminars: Students will attend and participate in a monthly 2-hour seminar with other students in the higher education specialization. The monthly seminar is a required component of the specialization and included as part of practicum hours.

Recommended Coursework

• Students are encouraged to enroll in Social Work Practice III - Macro Focus (3-credits)
• We recommend that students engage in the Adaptive Leadership in Human Services Institute

Eligibility Requirements

• Students must be in good academic standing
• Students must be preparing to enter their Specialized Practice year
• Students must complete the Specialized Practice form for the Practicum Education Office indicating interest in this specialization
• Students must be able to attend the monthly seminar. The seminar is traditionally held on Mondays but will be finalized in collaboration with students and their site supervisors.