The field practicum is an integral part of both the foundation and concentration curriculum of the MSW program. The practicum provides students the opportunity to transfer the theories and practice skills they learn in the classroom and apply them to the practicum experience. Students are offered social work experiences at increasing levels of complexity as they move through the practicum course sequence. In situations where this is not feasible, students have the option of completing the foundation field experience over two semesters, beginning in the winter semester, and extending into the following summer.
Students receive four graduate credits for successful completion of the foundation field practicum.
Students choose their foundation practicum from among agencies that have agreed to provide this experience to MSW students. This course is taken concurrently with the foundation practicum. Students must take all foundation courses before they enter advanced field practica. Students choose their concentration practica from among agencies that have agreed to provide these specialized experiences to MSW students. Students work at the practicum site three full days per week for two semesters.