GWB's top position among the nation's schools of social work points to its exceptional achievements in a variety of categories. One factor is its faculty and student's dedication to teaching and learning, as they work side by side to build the knowledge, understanding, and practice skills needed to deal with complex social issues. Another is its outstanding research, as scholars from diverse disciplines tackle social problems and promote social justice. Finally, it is GWB's ties and service to the local, national, and international communities which create a rich educational environment. The MSW Program offers five concentrations and three specializations, which are listed below.
Some students design a concentration to meet special interests.
Each concentration includes course work and field work focused on current theories, policies, practices and outcome evaluation methods. A feature of the program is an array of skill labs including Grantwriting, Effective Negotiation, Survival Skills for Managed Care, Problem Solving for Brief Therapy, and Art Therapy Skills. Students develop skills in the use of technology through practica, course work, specially designed computer workshops, and a skills lab titled Use of Information Technology in Social Service Management. MSW students complete 1000 - 1400 hours of field training with nonprofit, public and for profit organizations which complement students' professional development goals and meet GWB field site requirements. Others train in program development and organization management with large and small nonprofits, fund raising and marketing with nonprofits and large fund raising organizations, policy analysis with local, state and federal units and advocacy organizations, economic and community development with government units and specialized nonprofit entities, and research project work with government agencies, advocacy groups, and research centers.