Field education gives you the chance to observe real-world scenarios and apply classroom learning to help people and communities make positive change. Our experienced and dedicated field instructors will help you transition from student to effective practitioner and begin to build your professional network.
Setting a Strong Practice Foundation
Practice learning is an exciting, rich educational component at the College of Social Work. We require graded practice experiences for both the BSW and MSW programs, and our master’s students must log nearly 1,000 hours of practice experience and related coursework to graduate. These experiences are structured for you to spend a minimum of two full days per week on site, providing services and working alongside social workers.
Practice experience is paired with classroom time so you can ask questions and seek input from instructors and peers about how to advocate for your clients. You and your classmates will share what you are observing and doing and process your experiences together, learning about client needs in various settings and sharing self-care strategies to sustain you throughout your career. As your studies progress, your client and organizational activities in the field will grow more in-depth.
BSW Field Education Requirements
MSW Field Education Requirements
Shaping the Next Generation
The College of Social Work cultivates a spirit of collaboration among its faculty, students and partners. We welcome organizations to join us in our pursuit of social justice and invite you to share your expertise as a field agency or instructor. Contact our field education office at 803-777-5293 to learn more.