Social Work - Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups, MSW

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The MSW Program at the School of Social Work is accredited to offer two advanced specializations: Direct Practice with Individuals, Families, and Small Groups (DP) and Community, Organization, and Social Action (COSA). After completing Generalist curriculum requirements (or receiving the equivalent social work Advanced Standing credit), MSW students are required to complete class and practicum requirements for one of these two areas of specialized practice.  

The Direct Practice (DP) specialization develops students’ advanced practice skills to prepare them for autonomous practice, grounded in the values and ethics of the social work profession using a strengths-based, person-in-the-environment perspective. Through course work and practicum education, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to engage in direct practice with individuals, families, and small groups with diverse backgrounds and identities. The specialization focuses on evidence-based modalities and provides students with community-based learning opportunities. Consistent with an emphasis on strengths perspective, students become skilled at assisting clients/patients/consumers to address their needs and realize their potential. 

The Direct Practice specialization is offered to MSW students in both our Face-to-Face and Online program options. 

Certificates 

Direct Practice students may choose to pursue a certificate to acquire greater depth of knowledge and skills in a particular practice focus area: 

• Children, Youth and Families  

• Gerontology  

• Home and School Visitor/School Social Work  

• Integrated Health Certificate  

• Mental Health  

Each Direct Practice certificate incorporates courses and field placement experiences that enable students to tailor their education and professional preparation. To earn a DP certificate, students must fulfill all specialized direct practice requirements, as well as those of their certificate.  

Direct Practice students are not required to pursue a certificate. In fact, some students may have practice goals that do not neatly fit into any of the certificates and may benefit from planning a unique course of study within the requirements of the DP specialization with their academic advisor.   

Curriculum 

The Direct Practice specialization requires two Direct Practice Skills Courses, a DP human behavior course, a DP policy analysis course, and an advanced applied research course. Students also complete two DP skills electives and two open electives. They develop practice skills through twelve (12) credit hours of specialized direct practice practicum.