School Social Work Training Academy

MSW students seeking to make an immediate, meaningful impact in the lives of New York City public school students have the unique opportunity to acquire advanced skills and experience and boost their employability through NYU Silver’s School Social Work Training Academy (SSWTA). 

There is strong demand for school social workers across the country. By providing tailored education and training experiences for NYU Silver MSW students, the SSWTA is increasing the pipeline of qualified and well-prepared professionals who can help shift the trajectories of students toward academic, social and career success. 

Launched in Fall 2023 in collaboration with the New York City Public Schools system, the SSWTA is preparing NYU Silver MSW students for careers providing high-quality social and behavioral health support to children and families. While we partner with New York City schools for practicum placement, students can utilize the training in school districts across the country. All students who are selected will receive a stipend for their participation.

Training for MSW Students

NYU Silver MSW students accepted to the SSWTA learn together as part of a cohort and receive support from a team of experienced faculty, staff and school social work professionals. The SSWTA has three mandatory components:

• Academic Courses: Specialized coursework prepares students for the practice of school social work. They include technology-based training opportunities to prepare MSW students for assessment and intervention in schools.
• Practicum Placements: Students will work directly with high-risk students while placed in  school-based settings in New York City.
• Seminar Series: Seminars are held monthly to enhance student learning, introduce students to experts in the field, and expand students’ social and professional networks.

In addition to the mandatory components, students in their second or specialized practice year will have the opportunity to participate in training that will prepare them to apply for their certification in school social work after graduation. 

Eligibility

NYU Silver MSW Students in the following pathways who are committed to completing the mandatory components above are eligible to apply for the SSWTA.

• Two-Year Pathway MSW students entering either year

• Advanced Standing Pathway students

• 16-Month pathway entering their fall semester

• Extended Pathway students in their practicum placement years

Two-year and Extended pathway students may apply for one or two years. Advanced Standing and 16-Month may apply for one year only.

We welcome applicants who have a strong interest in urban education. Applicants who have experience working within New York City Public Schools are strongly encouraged to apply. 

For Prospective Students:
Applying to the SSWTA

For applicants to the Two-Year, Advanced Standing and Extended pathways:

1. Attend one Specialized Programs Information Session
2. Indicate your interest in the SSWTA on your MSW program application
3. Submit a one-page Statement of Interest or a 5 minute recorded video as part of your MSW program application. In the submission, please describe:
   1. Your interest in the SSWTA and whether you wish to participate for one year (2024-2025) or two years (2024-2026)
   2. Previous work experience with youth and families
   3. Your commitment to urban education and working with NYC youth and families

Please be prepared to participate in a 20 minute interview if you have submitted your application for the SSWTA and have been offered admission to the MSW program at NYU Silver. These interviews will be scheduled via email. 

Please note that admission to the MSW program and the SSWTA specialization are separate from one another.  You must first be admitted to the degree program before a decision is rendered on your SSWTA application.

For applicants to the 16-Month pathway:

In the first semester at Silver, the Office of Practicum Education and Community Partnerships will notify you when the SSWTA application is open for the upcoming academic year and will provide complete details on the application process and deadline at that time.

If you need support with applying to the SSWTA, please contact silver.admissions@nyu.edu.