Future Social Workers’ Corner

• Duration & Commitment: BASW students are required to complete 16 hours per week, while MSW students must fulfill 20 hours per week at their assigned field sites. This hands-on experience typically spans across the academic year, providing students with substantial real-world exposure.

• Placement Process: Students are placed in various approved agencies, which may include community organizations, healthcare facilities, schools, and government agencies. The process begins with the submission of a Field Application form in the semester prior to the internship. The selection of agencies is based on the alignment between the agency’s work and the student’s educational goals.

• Learning Objectives: The internships are designed to help students develop and demonstrate core social work competencies, such as engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation. This experiential learning component is integrated with the classroom curriculum to ensure that students can apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.

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Roles and Responsibilities:

• Students:

  • Engagement in Practice: Students are expected to actively participate in the daily operations of their field sites, applying social work theories, methods, and values in real-world contexts. They must take on roles that reflect the professional responsibilities of social workers, including direct client interaction, case management, advocacy, and community outreach.

  • Professional Development: Students are encouraged to take initiative in their learning by seeking feedback, reflecting on their practice, and continuously improving their skills. They must also adhere to professional ethics and standards, as well as the specific policies and procedures of their placement agencies.

• Field Instructors:

  • Supervision and Guidance: Field Instructors, who are experienced social workers at the placement agencies, play a crucial role in mentoring students. They provide regular supervision, offering guidance, support, and feedback to help students navigate the challenges of social work practice.

  • Performance Evaluation: Instructors assess the student's progress throughout the internship, evaluating their ability to integrate theory into practice, their professional conduct, and their overall performance in fulfilling the internship objectives.

• Field Liaisons:

  • University-Agency Connection: Field Liaisons are faculty members who serve as the bridge between the university and the field placement agencies. They ensure that the internships meet the educational standards set by the university and provide additional support to both students and Field Instructors. Liaisons conduct site visits, facilitate communication between all parties, and address any issues that may arise during the placement.

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Additional Requirements:

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• Background Checks and Health Clearances: Before beginning their internships, students must complete a Live Scan background check, obtain health clearance (including TB tests), and acquire First Aid and CPR certifications. Some agencies may also require additional clearances, such as immunizations or drug screenings.

• COVID-19 Compliance: Students must adhere to any COVID-19 protocols required by their placement agencies, including vaccinations and safety measures.