Master of Social Work student handbook

Please note: This represents the program handbook for the current academic year only. For an archived version of a previous year's handbook, please contact Program Coordinator Sara Thompson-Kirby at sarat@unr.edu or MSW Program Advisor Olga Martinez or omartinez@unr.edu.

The University of Nevada, Reno is excited to offer two modalities of the master’s degree in social work: on-campus and online. Our program offers a program for non-BSW Students seeking a masters in social work and an accelerated credit program for students with a BSW degree from an accredited school. Our social work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Our MSW program is solely structured around advanced generalist practice (AGP), which prepares social workers to handle ambiguity, work independently and demonstrate the leadership skills necessary to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Table of contents

 

Introduction to social work

(Please note: the following information was taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics website, publish date September 2019)

Social work is a profession for those with a strong desire to help improve people’s lives. Social workers enhance the fit between people’s needs and capabilities and the demands and resources of their environments. A variety of strategies are used to accomplish this goal. Social workers assist people in dealing with their relationships and solving personal and family problems. Social workers help clients identify their strengths and concerns, consider effective solutions, and find reliable resources. Social workers typically consult and counsel clients and link them with needed services. Often they refer clients to specialists in services such as debt counseling, eldercare, public assistance, or alcohol or drug rehabilitation. Social workers may review eligibility requirements, help fill out forms and applications, visit clients on a regular basis, and provide support during crises. Finally, social workers, through community organizing, program development, and political advocacy, strive to enhance environments to be socially and economically just for all people.

Social work demands a great deal from its practitioners. Social workers must be mature, emotionally healthy, and capable of coping with job-related stress. Social workers must be able to handle responsibility, work independently, and maintain good working relationships with clients and coworkers. Also required is a high level of skill in communication (i.e., reading, writing, and speaking). People who are conscientious, empathetic, caring, dedicated, and passionate will do well within the profession.

A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is the most common minimum educational requirement to qualify for a job as a social worker and prepares graduates for generalist practice. While educational opportunities and foci are shaped by regional contexts, national accrediting standards issued by the Council on Social Work education ensure that graduates of BSW programs nationwide are competent in the same generalist practice behaviors.

At the graduate level, social work requires its practitioners to be able to address more complex issues, work autonomously while knowing when to seek consultation, and to assume leadership roles in whatever setting they practice. Social workers with an MSW are also distinguished by their ability to use evidence from practice and research to reach and support their decisions. A master’s degree in social work is a terminal practice degree.

Social workers who continue their education at the doctoral level primarily assume roles as educators, researchers, policymakers, and evaluators at universities, governmental, or private agencies.

Careers

For sheer variety, few occupations can match social work, which offers the broadest range of opportunities and settings. Social workers are found in public agencies, private businesses, hospitals, clinics, schools, nursing homes, private practices, police departments, courts, and countless other interesting workplaces.

Traditionally, social workers have been strongly represented in the following industries and services:

  • Aging/Gerontology
  • Child Welfare
  • Family Services
  • Homeless Services
  • Healthcare
  • Mental Health
  • Public Welfare
  • Schools
  • Disabilities Programs
  • Corrections
  • Employee Assistance
  • Private Practice
  • Community Organization
  • Politics
  • Administration
  • Research

Employment outlook

In 2019, there were approximately 707,400 social work jobs in the United States. About 9 out of 10 jobs were in health care and social assistance industries, as well as State and local government, primarily in departments of health and human services, mental health, social services, child welfare, housing, education, and corrections. Most private-sector jobs were in social service agencies, hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other health centers or clinics.

Overall employment of social workers is expected to increase by 11 percent during the 2018-2028 decade, faster than the average for all occupations. Especially rapid growth in job opportunities for gerontological social workers is expected due to the growing elderly population and the aging baby boom generation. Employment opportunities for mental health and substance abuse social workers are expected to grow by 19 percent over the next decade. Competition for social work jobs is stronger in cities where demand for services often is highest, training programs for social workers are prevalent, and interest in available positions is strongest. In addition, drug offenders are increasingly being sent to treatment program staffed by social workers, rather than being sent to jail. Opportunities should be good in rural areas, which often find it difficult to attract and retain qualified staff. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, September 2019).

Social work salaries

Nationally, the median salary for an entry-level social worker is $50,470 as of April 2020, depending on the type of work, experience required and geographic factors. Social workers with supervisory experience, many years of experience, and/or MSW degrees earn average salaries over $60,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook Outlook, April 2020).

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Accreditation

The programs provided by the University of Nevada, Reno School of Social Work are accredited at the baccalaureate and master’s levels by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This indicates to the public and to potential employers that graduates meet the high professional standards established by CSWE in its Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). Please refer to CSWE’s website for a complete list of Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. UNR’s MSW Social Work program has been accredited by CSWE since 1991.

Professional licensure

Many social service positions within Nevada and throughout the United States require a social work license. Licensure establishes and enforces professional standards for practice. Each state has its own licensing body, with distinct rules and regulations governing the issuing of licenses. Please check with your state of residence to determine your Board of Examiners rules and regulations. All applicants to the Social Work Program will be provided the information for their state of residence at the time of application. You can also check for the information on license requirements for your state on the School of Social Work’s website.

Nevada residents

Within Nevada, the Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Work issues social work licenses.
The state of Nevada has what is called “title protection” for social workers. This means that anyone who calls him/herself a “social worker” must be licensed. All students who graduate with a BSW or MSW are eligible to pursue licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW).

Master’s prepared social workers are eligible to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), which opens opportunities to work in additional settings and positions, including the Veterans Administration (VA), some child welfare positions, behavioral health, hospice, and community mental health. Some agencies such as the VA, only hire social workers who either have or are in the process of obtaining an LCSW. Significantly, the VA is the largest employer of master’s-level social workers in the nation. Social workers with an LCSW license can also practice independently rather than as an employee of an agency.

In Nevada, there is a second post-MSW license that enables social workers to practice independently. Social workers who obtain an LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker) can provide referrals and support, but not clinical services, to clients and families. For example, a social worker with an LISW might assist clients who are caring for aging parents to improve their level of coping and well-being. Each of these licenses (LISW and LCSW) requires the completion of 3,000 supervised postgraduate social work hours and a satisfactory score on an exam.

Please visit the State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers website for additional information about social work licensure requirements in Nevada.

For information about career opportunities in social work and voluntary credentials for social workers, contact:

For a listing of accredited social work programs or to order a Directory of Colleges and Universities with Accredited Social Work Degree Programs for a nominal charge, contact:

Information on licensing requirements and testing procedures for each State may be obtained from State licensing authorities, or from:

 

MSW program overview

The mission of the School of Social Work is to eradicate injustice and promote human dignity, health and well-being. We strive to achieve this mission through teaching, research, engagement & advocacy.

Program mission

The mission of the MSW program is to prepare ethical, competent advanced generalist social work leaders who are able to practice reflectively and autonomously in complex environments across system levels with diverse client groups.

The University of Nevada, Reno School of Social work has one concentration, which is Advanced Generalist Practice (AGP). This AGP specialization reflects the practice by preparing graduates to address questions, issues and problems across methods, systems, and fields of practice. As defined at the UNR School of Social Work, AGP is characterized by 1) leadership in innovative problem-solving and change; 2) autonomous practice, and 3) use of integrated, evidence-informed knowledge, values, and skills to address ambiguous, complex problems in an increasingly diverse and ever changing practice environment.

Program goals

The goals of the MSW program flow from the MSW Mission and build upon the profession’s core competencies as articulated by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The goals guiding the MSW program are to prepare advanced generalist practitioners who: 

  1. Identify as professionals, committed to social work’s ethical principles, continuous learning and service that meets the needs of vulnerable and diverse populations.
  2. Demonstrate leadership across system levels through the ability to frame issues in ways that communicate their larger significance and a vision for change, and engage with others in ways that motivate and empower;
  3. Integrate the strengths and person-in-environment perspectives with an array of theoretical models and intervention approaches to uniquely frame and address complex issues across diverse client systems;
  4. Use research to inform practice decisions as well as produce and analyze data to identify client needs, emerging trends and evaluate interventions;
  5. Are able to autonomously navigate diverse, ambiguous and changing local, regional, and global contexts in developing and delivering interventions, policies, and programs that promote health and well-being of individuals, families, groups and society; and
  6. Promote social and economic justice through the provision of equitable and interculturally effective programs, policies and services.

Program competencies

In accordance with the School of Social Work’s mission, the MSW Program seeks to facilitate the development of competent advanced generalist social workers. Upon completion of the MSW degree at UNR, students should meet each of the following nine competencies identified by the Council on Social Work Education.

Competency 1: Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
Competency 2: Engage diversity and difference in practice
Competency 3: Advance human rights and social, economic and environmental justice
Competency 4: Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice
Competency 5: Engage in policy practice
Competency 6: Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
Competency 7: Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
Competency 8: Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
Competency 9: Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Contact Information: for any program-related questions or inquiries, please contact Program Coordinator Sara Thompson-Kirby at sarat@unr.edu or MSW Program Advisor Olga Martinez at omartinez@unr.edu

Programs of study

The School of Social Work provides a traditional face-to-face program located on the University campus in addition to an online MSW. The online and face-face track are taught by the same faculty, provide the same content, and meet the same accreditation standards. The faculty have worked diligently to ensure that both programs are rigorous in nature.

Face-to-face traditional program provided at the University campus:

The School of Social Work offers three MSW programs of study, including:

  • A two-year MSW program for students with non-social work bachelor’s degrees and substantial preparation in the liberal arts who are enrolled full-time for two consecutive years.
  • An extended three- or four-year MSW program that is designed for students with non-social work bachelor’s degrees whose time demands preclude enrolling full-time for two years. Applicants to the three-or four-year program must complete their coursework in a prescribed, educational sequence (See TABLE 1).
  • An advanced standing MSW program, which is open only to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE accredited program within the last seven years (see Table 2).

VIEW CURRENT ON-CAMPUS MSW PROGRAM DETAILS IN THE CATALOG

Online program:

  • The 60-credit option (completed over 8 semesters, including summers) for students with non-social work bachelor’s degrees and substantial preparation in the liberal arts who are enrolled full-time (See Table 3).
  • A 30-credit option (completed over 4 semesters, including summer), which is open only to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE accredited program within the last seven years (see Table 4).

VIEW CURRENT ONLINE MSW PROGRAM DETAILS IN THE CATALOG

 

MSW admissions

Students who wish to enter the MSW Program must be admitted to the University of Nevada, Reno in the status of a regular graduate standing student. To do so, they must complete a bachelor’s degree and file the required credentials with the Graduate School.

On-campus program admission requirements

Admission requirements for the on-campus MSW programs of study include:

  1. A non-social work bachelor’s degree (with substantial preparation in the liberal arts, including the social sciences, humanities, research, and human biology). In addition, an introductory research methods and an introductory statistics course are required;
  2. An overall undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and all Social Work classes with at least a "C"; or a completed Master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Any graduate level coursework, if applicable, must be at a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  3. Evidence of the ability to formulate and present material logically and clearly in written and oral communication;
  4. Career goals and potential which are compatible with the program’s approach to advanced generalist social work practice as characterized by: willingness to work with diverse populations; desire to work with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations; maturity; commitment to social work; use of self in professional practice; commitment to social justice and social change; a broader focus than a population of personal interest; compatibility with social work values; and a well thought out plan for graduate education. These goals will be demonstrated through a written essay.
  5. A minimum of three professional references.

The Advanced Standing MSW program of study is open only to those students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE accredited social work program within the last seven years. To insure that students are not asked to duplicate content covered in their CSWE accredited undergraduate programs, these students must apply to the Advanced Standing MSW program of study option.

Admission requirements for the Advanced Standing MSW program of study include:

  1. An overall undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and all Social Work classes with at least a "C" in each individual social work course; or a completed Master’s degree in another field of study with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Any graduate level coursework, if applicable, must be at a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  2. Documentation of proficient performance in a BSW field experience as documented by the student’s social work field supervisor (BSW field performance evaluation).
  3. All other requirements for admission as listed in the full MSW program of study.

Application procedure (campus)

Applications for the School of Social Work must be received by January 15 of each year for enrollment in the following fall semester. Applications will only be processed if all other documents are received on time. Applicants may be asked to schedule an interview with a faculty member as part of the screening process for admission to the MSW program.

All applicants to the School of Social Work must apply online to the University of Nevada, Reno, Graduate School with ample time for processing. (Suggested completion date by December 15).

Please note that once an application is submitted and is under review, no correction/modification is allowed without approval from the School of Social Work. Deadlines for application submission: January 15 for On-Campus MSW program; for Online MSW - contact the School of Social Work.

Online MSW student admissions

Applications for the School of Social Work online program is a rolling application process. Start dates are every fall, spring and summer. All application materials are provided to the student’s enrollment advisor prior to being submitted for consideration for admission.

For more information on the online program, visit our the Online Masters in Social Work website or please call 1-888-896-7603.

International student admissions

The on-campus MSW program is available for international students upon meeting the program admission requirements. International students with a bachelor's degree in Social Work who apply to the Advanced Standing Program must have their credentials reviewed and approved by the Office of International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Services under the Council of Social Work Education and pay the associated fees. For more information, please click on the provided link: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) - International Degree Review

If admitted to the Social Work program, international students will be working with the University Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) for assistance with the required visa paperwork.

The Online MSW program is not available for international students.

Getting started

Before starting the application process, we strongly suggest that prospective students print out the MSW Admissions Checklist and use it to ensure your application packet is complete.

Contained in the MSW admissions checklist

  • Application to the Master of Social Work Program (available online);
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended, sent directly from issuing institution(s).
    (UNR graduates: do not send UNR transcripts. If there is transfer work, check with the Graduate School to see if it was submitted – (775) 784-6869);
  • Current Immunization Record;
  • Resume (uploaded with the application);
  • Essay responses (uploaded with the application);
  • If applying for the Advanced Standing (30-credit) program of study, applicants must submit a copy of their field placement evaluation with their application.
  • Two references from professionals (e.g. supervisors, employers, professors) who can attest to the applicant's aptitude for graduate study and performance in social work roles and tasks using the MSW Recommendation Form. When your recommender's contact information is provided in the application, this link will be automatically emailed directly to them.
  • If applicant has a BSW degree, a third reference must be completed by the applicant's field instructor using the Field Instructor Recommendation Form;
  • Scholarship request(s) (optional);
  • Teaching/Research Assistantship application (optional) For on-campus program only. Please download form before completing and submit completed form to the School of Social Work by the admission deadline. Applicants must submit all materials by January 15th. Should January 15 fall on a weekend, application materials will be due by the end of business (5:00 pm P.S.T.) the last weekday BEFORE January 15.

Transfer credit, class waiver, proficiency examinations, and the timeline for degree completion

Transfer credit

Transfer credit refers to credits that are transferred from another institution. Transfer credit can be requested on the Graduate Credit Transfer Evaluation Request form available on the Graduate School forms and policies for students website, and must be signed by the student, the MSW Program Advisor, the MSW Program Director, and the Graduate School Dean. Transfer credits applied to a master’s program must comply with the time limitation on master’s work (6 years). Thus, if a student took a course five years prior to admission, they would have to complete the degree within one year for the course to apply to the degree. *The Social Work graduate-level courses taken at the University of Nevada, Reno as a Graduate Special do not need to be transferred with the Transfer Request form.

Consistent with the Graduate School's transfer units policy, the School of Social Work accepts no more than 12 credits from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited social work program with a grade of a “C” or higher and with the approval of the MSW Program Director. Only Foundation master’s level courses (typically, the first-year courses) are allowed to be considered for transfer. Due to the specifics of the prescribed UNR MSW program, utilizing transfer credits may delay the start of their Field Practicum. *Students need to consult with the MSW Program Advisor in advance.

Requests that meet the above guidelines will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students must submit course documentation (syllabus, bibliography, and assignments) for each course for which transfer credit is sought. Based on this material, the MSW Program Director makes a determination regarding the course equivalencies. Official transcripts showing courses requested to be transferred must be on file with the Graduate School. Please note that Research, Directed Study, Independent Study, Seminars, Colloquiums, Thesis Credits, Dissertation Credits, Practicum/Internships, Special Topics, Undergraduate Courses, Pass/Fail Courses, or Courses from Unaccredited Institutions ARE NOT TRANSFERABLE and are not applicable toward an advanced degree at the University of Nevada, Reno. Total course credits will not be split or reduced into partial credits.

Proficiency examinations

Proficiency examinations are not used for any MSW program of study

Timeline for degree completion

Master’s degrees: All course work must be completed within six years preceding the awarding of the degree.

Forms and deadlines required by the Graduate School

All required forms can be found at the Graduate School forms webpage.

  • Declaration of Advisor/Major Advisor/Committee Chair form
    • For master’s students, the completed form must be submitted to Graduate School by the end of the student’s second semester
    • For doctoral and MFA students, the completed form must be submitted to Graduate School by the end of the student’s third semester
  • Program study form
    • For master’s students, the completed form must be submitted to Graduate School by the end of the student’s third semester
  • Graduation application deadlines
    • Must be submitted to the graduate school several weeks in advance. Check Graduate School website for exact dates.
  • Notice of completion
    • Completed form should be submitted after all requirements have been met.
  • Exit survey

Academic credit for life experience

In accordance with CSWE accreditation standards, academic credit for life experience and previous work experience is not given under any circumstance.

Grad special status (on campus) 

In keeping with the Graduate School and the Social of Social Work policy of accepting up to nine credits of course work, students who are not currently admitted to the MSW program may enroll in designated foundation courses with the approval of the MSW Program Coordinator. Grad Special Status provides an avenue for students with a baccalaureate degree who are considering a career in social work to gain a better understanding of the nature of the profession and to gauge its fit for them personally.

 

The MSW curriculum

Social work curriculum overview

Once students apply to and are accepted into the Master of Social Work program, they will follow the MSW course sequence. This sequence is established in accordance with CSWE’s (Council on Social Work Education) Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. Social work courses are designed to complement and build upon one another and therefore cannot be taken out of sequence.

Programs of study (on-campus)
  • Advanced 30-credit program of study
  • Traditional 60-credit program of study
Programs of study (online)
  • Advanced 30-credit program of study
  • Traditional 60-credit program of study

Social work field practicum

The field practicum provides students with an opportunity to apply academic knowledge and practice skills gained in the classroom to authentic human service experiences. Field agencies offer guidance and supervision in preparing graduates for entry-level professional practice. University faculty members serve as liaisons between the agencies and the students. These faculty liaisons facilitate a weekly or bi-weekly seminar to aid students in the synthesis of classroom knowledge with their social service experience. Students enroll in three credits of Field Practicum (225 hours) per semester. Please visit the Field Practicum link for all practicum-related instructions, manuals and forms. Prior to placement, students are not permitted to contact agencies directly to discuss field practicum.

Required foundation and concentration courses

View the required foundation and concentration courses in the current catalog

Recommended course progression

View the recommended schedules for each degree progression in the current catalog

Example 60-credit MSW program of study

These schedules are an example of course progressions. Courses should be confirmed with your advisor and the University course catalog.

Example 30-credit MSW program of study

These schedules are an example of course progressions. Courses should be confirmed with your advisor and the University course catalog.

 

MSW advising

On-campus MSW advising

MSW Program Coordinator: provides ongoing support and guidance for MSW students including problem solving, support with any conflict, resolution, disciplinary actions, and overall coordination of program.

MSW Program Advisor: provides advisement on courses and your program of study and graduation. Students are encouraged to make appointments with their advisors to explore issues affecting their progress in the MSW program and the requirements of the School and University. The Academic Advisor does not provide personal counseling or social services.

Online MSW advising

There are a number of individuals available to advise and support online students.

MSW Program Coordinator: provides ongoing support and guidance for MSW students including problem-solving, support with any conflict, resolution, disciplinary actions, and overall coordination of program.

Support coaches: In addition, the MSW online students also have success coaches. These individuals will provide consistent check-ins with each student to ensure student support throughout the program.

MSW Program Advisor: provides advisement on courses and your program of study and graduation. Students are encouraged to make appointments with their advisors to explore issues affecting their progress in the MSW program and the requirements of the School and University. The Academic Advisor does not provide personal counseling or social services.

 

Campus resources

MSW on-ground program is located at the University of Nevada, Reno Redfield Campus (South Reno): 18600 Wedge Pkwy. Reno, NV 89511 Building A Suite 100. All University services and resources are located at the Main University Campus.

There are many resources available to students at the University. *Online Students: Not all campus resources will be available to students of the online program. Please contact the resource to see if it is available to you.

View student resources

Resource comparison chart
Resources for MSW students Online MSW students Campus-based students
Counseling services No Yes
Disability Resource Center Yes Yes
Financial Aid and Scholarships Yes Yes
University Libraries Yes Yes
Office of International Students and Scholars Yes Yes
Writing Center Yes Yes
The Joe Crowley Student Union No Yes
E.L. Wiegand Fitness Center No Yes
Student Health Center No Yes
Mandatory Health Insurance No Yes

*Online students may be able to opt into the rest of these resources by purchasing the Campus Fee Package. Please note that this package cannot be broken out, therefore, by purchasing the whole packet, you will have access to all resources listed above. For more information, please contact cashiers office at 775-784-6915.

 

Social work student community

There are two student-run organizations that represent the graduate student body at the School Meeting, which is the policy-making body of the School of Social Work. These student representatives are elected by their peers and serve on a voluntary basis. The School Meeting Representatives attend all regular School Meetings and special School Meetings at the request of the Director of the School of Social Work. He or she acts as the Associations’ representatives to the School during such meetings and represent the best interests of the student body. These two student organizations, SWAG and Phi Alpha Honor Society, also coordinate social and community outreach events for the graduate students.

A faculty advisor is available to each of these student organizations. Students who serve in an active leadership position in either organization may be able to negotiate a one-unit Independent Study credit related to their leadership activities and learning.

The Social Work Associated Graduates (SWAG)

The Social Work Graduate Student Association is open to all MSW students, and all students are encouraged to participate. For more information about SWAG please see the Student Organization page of the School of Social Work.

Phi Alpha Honor Society

The University's Chapter of Phi Alpha Honor Society was founded in 2002. Phi Alpha is a national honor society for social work students, with chapters at universities throughout the United States. Students are invited to submit their UNR transcripts once a year for consideration for induction into Phi Alpha. Students who are deemed eligible for membership are inducted into the organization during the spring semester. The cost for membership is $25 for the first year and $10 for each subsequent year.

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Students are encouraged to join the NASW. NASW is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.

Students in an accredited program of social work education are eligible to join NASW at a discounted rate. You can apply for membership online at National Association of Social Workers (NASW). To learn more about NASW or to become involved at the local level, contact the Nevada chapter's office.

Social Work Alumni Chapter

The Social Work Alumni Association offers graduates the opportunity to give back to, maintain connections and identify more closely with the School and University. Additionally, the Social Work Alumni Association provides a forum for alumni to network with professionals and advance the common goals of the profession. The mission of the Association is to unite graduates, faculty, and students of the UNR School of Social Work to maximize impact on social welfare policy, identify community needs, strengthen the community, and provide opportunities for continuing education and collaborative research. Students or graduates who are interested in joining the Social Work Alumni Association should call the School of Social Work at (775) 784-6542.

 

Scholarships and financial aid information

Financing a graduate education is high on the list of most students’ concerns. The School of Social Work encourages students to carefully plan for their graduate studies and to seek out information on scholarships and financial aid. Students occasionally ask us if it is possible to work more than half-time and attend graduate school. Our answer is always the same: we don’t recommend it. As an MSW student you will be taking two to three graduate level classes each semester and working 15 hours a week in an internship during your field placement courses. Graduate school is a transformative period in most students’ lives; give yourself a chance to experience it deeply.

There are a limited number of Field Practicum placements that provide stipends. To learn more about these please contact the Field Education Program Coordinator in the School of Social Work (775) 784-6542.

You will find information on the School of Social Work scholarships available for students on our website: School of Social Work Scholarships. For more information on general university scholarships/financial aid please visit Student Financial Aid & Scholarships.

School of Social Work scholarships

The School of Social Work at the University of Nevada, Reno, offers several different scholarships to
juniors, seniors, and graduate students admitted to the social work program. A sample of scholarship
awards are listed below, descriptions and criteria are listed on our website. 

  • Barbara West Larsen Scholarship
  • Heather Morsberger Memorial Scholarship
  • John and Louise Semenza Family
  • Kris Tower Memorial Scholarship
  • Alicia Smalley Scholarship for Social Justice

To apply for these scholarships, please fill out the scholarship application found in MyNEVADA 2.0. Make sure that you identify that you are a Social Work student so your application comes to our school for consideration. It is also helpful if you reference a scholarship in your scholarship application essay questions and why you are a good fit.

Graduate Research and Teaching Assistantships (on-campus only)

Several part-time, research/teaching assistantships for graduate applicants are available in the School of Social Work. The number of Graduate Assistantship (GA) positions varies from year to year. Graduate Assistants typically work 10 hours/week. The most common type of work is teaching or research-related. In addition, GAs are expected to participate in recruitment efforts, orientation activities, and participate in other leadership roles within the School. Graduate Assistantships come with a partial tuition waiver. Out-of-state students with a GA position have their out of state tuition waived for the duration of the Assistantship.

Applications for Graduate Assistantships are due on January 15.

Health insurance

All domestic degree-seeking graduate students, who are enrolled in six or more credits (regardless of the course level) in a semester, will be automatically enrolled and billed for the University-sponsored health insurance for each term they are eligible (fall & spring/summer). If a student has other comparable coverage and would like to waive out of the student health insurance, it is the student’s responsibility to complete the University online waiver form prior to the deadline. If approved, a health insurance waiver is good for the current academic year only. A new waiver must be submitted each academic year. All international graduate students are required to carry student health insurance, and the cost will be automatically added to your student account. Any international graduate students with insurance questions must contact the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) directly.

Leave of absence

Continuous Enrollment: To maintain “good standing” all graduate students are required to enroll in a minimum of three (3) graduate credits each fall and spring semester until they graduate. International students may be required to enroll in nine graduate credits each fall and spring semester depending on the requirements of their visa. All students holding assistantships (whether teaching or research assistantships) are required to enroll in a minimum of six (6) graduate credits each semester they hold the assistantship.

Students in good standing may request a leave of absence by completing a Leave of Absence form during which time they are not required to maintain continuous registration. Usually, a leave of absence is approved for one or two semesters. The leave of absence request may be extended by the student filing an additional leave of absence form. Students applying for a leave of absence should not have any “incomplete” grades which could be changed to “F” and have a detrimental impact on their cumulative GPA. Requests for leave of absences must be received by the Graduate School no later than the last day of enrollment for the semester the leave is to begin.

 

School of Social Work policies

Academic integrity

The School of Social Work adheres to the University of Nevada, Reno Academic Standards Policy for Students concerning issues of academic integrity. Please see the UNR website for a complete description, definitions and policies regarding class conduct and academic dishonesty.

Accommodation for students with disabilities

Students who require additional support due to disabling conditions should discuss their needs with their instructors at the start of each semester. Accommodations for all reasonable requests will be made for documented disabling conditions. In addition, students are encouraged to contact the UNR Disability Resource Center at (775) 784-6000 to access a range of supportive services.

Attendance policy

The faculty of the School of Social Work believe that classroom attendance and participation are critical aspects of professional socialization. Students are responsible for assisting in the creation of a learning environment that promotes such socialization. To do so, students should assume responsibility for their own learning and be engaged within the course room. It is expected for students to log into the online classroom a minimum of three times a week to be successfully engaged. Attendance and participation will be part of grading, as determined by the course instructor. Opportunities for make-up assignments are determined at the discretion of individual instructors.

Confidentiality of case material outside of an agency

NASW Code of Ethics requirements regarding confidentiality of client information extend to the use of confidential information from field work in classes, seminars and in student assignments. Students may not divulge client, collateral or collegial information, disguising all names, demographic information and any case details that might identify a client or co-worker. Client files and records should never be removed from the agency for any purpose.

Nondiscrimination policy

The programs of the School of Social Work are conducted without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, creed, ethnic or national origin, disability, political orientation, or sexual orientation. This policy applies to the baccalaureate and master’s programs, the field education program, and all admission, employment, and financial aid decisions.

Retention

In its description of the Social Work major, the University of Nevada, Reno catalog states that:

“The admission and retention of students in the program is subject to the professional judgment of the social work faculty.”

Retention in the MSW Program is based on student performance in two general areas: academics and adherence to professional values and standards of behavior. Retention in the social work major requires students and maintain a 3.0 (B) overall grade point average—with a letter grade of “C” or higher in each of the graduate course, including the required 3 credits of electives. Additionally, students must adhere to the academic and professional standards outlined in UNR’s Student Handbook for Student Code of Conduct, the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics and the State Board of Examiners for Social Workers, Nevada Legislature’s Standards of Practice.

Dismissal policy

The School of Social Work adheres to the Dismissal Policy of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Code, Title 2, Chapter 11.

Academic standing and dismissal policy for master’s of social work graduate program

This policy is effective for the Spring 2024 Semester and beyond.

According to the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Code, Title 2, Chapter 11, “a student may be dismissed from a program for academic reasons which may include but are not limited to inadequate grades or failure to remain in academic good standing as defined by the program, a lack of professionalism or unethical conduct, or failure to comply with other specific program requirements. Failure to comport with professional and/or ethical standards applicable to the particular discipline or program may be grounds for dismissal from a program.” The NSHE Code authorizes programs to establish their own written dismissal policies, procedures and sanctions for program dismissals. The School of Social Work (SSW) herein sets forth the Dismissal Policy for graduate students in SSW Graduate Social Work Program (MSW Program).

A. Definitions

The term “Academic Policies” is defined as those policies, procedures, and regulations of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE), the University of Nevada, Reno, the University of Nevada, Reno Graduate School (“Graduate School”) and particular graduate departments or graduate programs.

The term “Recommending Party” shall refer to the person within the college or Interdisciplinary Graduate Program who shall make the recommendation to the Graduate School for a student to be placed on probation or be dismissed from the MSW Program. For purposes of this Policy, the Recommending Party shall be the dean of the SSW. 

The term “dismissed” shall mean removal from the student’s Graduate Program and removal from the Graduate School. If a student is dismissed, the student needs to reapply to the Graduate Program and the Graduate School. 

The term “discontinuation” shall mean the suspension of the student’s active status in the Graduate Program and Graduate School. If a student is discontinued, the student does not need to reapply to the Graduate Program and the Graduate School. A student can be reinstated at the discretion of the Graduate Program and the Graduate School.

B. General

A student may be placed on probation and/or dismissed from the MSW Program for numerous reasons, which may include, but are not limited to:

  1. Failure to maintain good academic standing as defined by this Dismissal Policy.
  2. Failure to make satisfactory progress as defined by the standards in this Dismissal Policy.
  3. Failure to meet the conditions of academic probation as described in the Academic Probation Notice.
  4. Unsatisfactory performance as a graduate teaching assistant, graduate research assistant, or graduate project assistant.
  5. Failure to comply with professional or ethical standards applicable to the MSW Program while the student is in a practicum or professional fieldwork setting.
  6. Violations of University Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy for academic dishonesty (UAM 6,502) where the disciplinary sanction is expulsion.

All probation and dismissal recommendations shall be submitted by the SSW to the Graduate School. Only the Graduate School may officially place students on probation or dismiss students. SSW and the MSW Program may not place students on probation, nor dismiss students from graduate programs unless authorized to do so by the Graduate School.

C. Academic Standards

  1. Academic Good Standing

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the MSW Program for failure to maintain academic good standing. To be considered in good academic standing, graduate students shall:

  1. Maintain a University graduate cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.0.
  2. Complete each MSW course with a grade of “C” or higher.
  3. Maintain a passing grade in the clinical or practicum course.
  4. Have not been placed on probation by the Graduate School for academic deficiencies or practicum or professional fieldwork placement deficiencies.

2. Failure to Make Satisfactory Progress

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the MSW Program for failure to make satisfactory progress in their course of study. Failure to make progress is indicated by one or more of the following academic progress standards (“Academic Progress Standards”):

  1. Failure to complete three (3) graduate credits per semester toward MSW Program; if an exception has been issued allowing a student to enroll for fewer than three (3) graduate credits, failure to complete the agreed-on number of graduate credits.
  2. Unsatisfactory grades (including grades below C or its numerical equivalent
  3. Repeated withdrawals from courses.
  4. Failure to consult with their advisor when requested.
  5. Failure to develop an official, approved program of study.
  6. Failure to comply with other specific MSW Program requirements or policies as stated in the MSW Program’s student handbook and website.
  7. Failure to meet the SSW’s milestone or benchmark within the timeframe specified by the MSW Program.
  8. Failure to correct or remediate an “out-of-status” course per the student’s Program of Study or the MSW Program.
  9. Failure to perform at a level commiserate with the training received from either the MSW Program or the practicum or professional fieldwork site while the student is in a practicum or professional fieldwork setting.
  10. Failure to maintain the standards of academic and professional integrity expected in for social workers, as described in the MSW Program’s student handbook and SSW website, while the student is in a practicum or professional fieldwork setting.

The MSW Program competencies for the Academic Progress Standards are stated in the MSW Handbook and SSW website. The competencies or requirements for the Academic Progress Standards shall be consistent with MSW Program requirements, standards in the field and as specified in the MSW Program handbook and on the SSW website for the MSW Program. 

The MSW Program shall review the academic performance and progress of the graduate student at least once per year.

D. Probation and Dismissal.

A Recommending Party may request the Graduate School place the student on probation and/or dismissed for failure to maintain academic good standing as stated in Section (C)(1) and/or failure to make satisfactory progress as stated in Section (C)(2).

  1. Failure to Maintain Academic Good Standing.

If the student's cumulative grade-point total falls below a 3.0, the student shall be placed on probation following the process stated in Section (D)(2)(a). The student must then raise their cumulative graduate GPA to 3.0 by the end of the following semester during which the student is enrolled or the student shall be summarily dismissed from the Graduate School and the MSW Program with no further process or appeal. 

If the student receives a U grade of 83% or lower in a practicum or professional fieldwork course, the student shall not be placed on probation. The student shall be summarily dismissed from the MSW Program and the dismissal procedures described below in Section II(H), shall not apply.

GPA calculator

 The student’s only recourse to challenge a grade is to utilize the University’s grade appeal process. If the student’s grade appeal is successful, the student shall be reinstated in the MSW Program.

  1. Failure to Make Satisfactory Progress.

a. Probation

If the MSW Program determines that the student has failed to make satisfactory progress, the Recommending Party shall make a written request to the Director of Operations of the Graduate School (“Director of Operations”) to place the student on probation. In the request, the Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student’s failure to meet the specific provisions(s) of this Dismissal Policy, where applicable, warranting probation. The Recommending Party also shall provide specific requirements and/or conditions, including deadlines, which the student shall complete in order for the Graduate School to remove the student from probation. If the student is placed on probation, the student shall not be allowed to participate in field work at a field or practicum setting or site while the student is on probation. 

If the Graduate School approves the request to place the student on probation, the Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing that the student has been placed on academic probation (the “Academic Probation Notice”). The Recommending Party shall forward the Academic Probation Notice to the Graduate School.

The Academic Probation Notice shall outline what the student must do and the dates by which the student must do so in order to return to good standing in the MSW Program. The Academic Probation Notice shall inform the student that while the student is on probation, they shall not be allowed to participate in field work at a field or practicum setting or site. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student that if the student does not meet the conditions of probation, the student shall be dismissed from the MSW Program, contain information about the MSW Program dismissal appeal process that shall be used and provide the student with the contact information for the Director of Operations for any questions or concerns the student may have. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student of the student’s right to participate in a review conference with MSW Program to discuss the terms and conditions of the probation and that the student must submit, within ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Academic Probation Notice, a written request to the SSW to have a review conference (“Review Conference Request”).

The student shall be afforded the opportunity for a review conference, which shall be administered by the Recommending Party or the Recommending Party’s designee who shall be a department chair, program director or associate dean (“Review Conference Administrator”). The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Academic Probation Notice to submit a written request to the SSW for a review conference (“Review Conference Request”). The SSW shall direct the Review Conference Administrator to schedule the Review Conference to occur no later than ten (10) Working Days from receipt of the Review Conference Request.

b. Dismissal

If the student fails to meet the requirements and/or conditions of probation, violates the terms of the probation or is recommended for dismissal without probation under SectionE), the Recommending Party shall make a written request to the Graduate School to dismiss the student from the MSW Program and Graduate School. In the request, the Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student’s failure to meet the terms of the probation, the student’s violation of the terms of the probation, or the grounds for dismissal without probation as stated in Section (E).

If the Graduate School approves the request to dismiss the student, the Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing that the student is being dismissed from the MSW Program and Graduate School (“Dismissal Notice”). The Dismissal Notice shall include a written statement of reasons for the dismissal action, information about the applicable appeal procedures and the time period by which the student shall file an appeal (set forth in Section (H) below).

E. Dismissal Without Prior Probation

In rare instances, a student may be recommended for dismissal from the Graduate School and the SSW without being placed on probation. These instances include the following circumstances:

  1. When a student receives a U grade of 83% or lower in a practicum or professional fieldwork course.
  2. When a student’s behaviors or actions while in a practicum or professional fieldwork setting endanger the life, health, well-being or safety of any person at the practicum or professional fieldwork setting.
  3. Failure to pass required courses in the number of attempts allowed by the MSW Program.
  4. Failure of comprehensive and/or qualifying exams in the allowable number of attempts specified by the MSW Program.
  5. Failure to pass the culminating experience in the allowable number of attempts specified by the MSW Program. The term culminating experience does not include: thesis, dissertation, comprehensive exam, clinical, practicum, fieldwork or internship.
  6. Failure to complete all degree requirements within a timeframe required by the MSW Program not shorter than 6 years for Masters students.
  7. When a sanction of expulsion is issued by the Office of Student Conduct resulting from a student conduct issue or a violation of the Academic Standards policy (UAM 6,502) for academic dishonesty.

For those instances involving a disciplinary sanction of expulsion by the Office of Student Conduct, the student is subject to the procedures as outlined in Section II(F).

For the other instances described above the student is subject to the same procedures as outlined in Section (D)(2) for MSW Program dismissal. The student shall be provided with a Dismissal Notice which shall include information about the appeal procedures, the appeal conference and the time period by which the student shall file an appeal (set forth in Section II(H) below).

F. Dismissal for Violation of UNR’s Student Code Conduct or University’s Academic Standards Policy (UAM 6,502)

All disciplinary issues relating to a student’s alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct and the Academic Standards Policy are processed through the Office of Student Conduct and not the SSW or the Graduate School. The SSW and the Graduate School and the SSW do not dismiss students from the MSW Program or the Graduate School as a result of a finding of responsibility of violations of the Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy. The Graduate School does dismiss a student from the student’s MSW Program and Graduate School upon direction from the Office of Student Conduct after all conduct hearings and appeals have been completed and the Office of Student Conduct notifies the Graduate School that the sanction imposed against the student is expulsion from the University and therefore, dismissal from the student’s MSW Program.

G. Probation or Dismissal/ for Lack of Professionalism or Professional Misconduct in a Practicum or Field Placement Setting

Probation and/or dismissal from the MSW Program for lack of professionalism or professional misconduct while in a practicum or professional fieldwork setting shall be allowed for the MSW Program. The SSW has established its own benchmarks or requirements for professionalism, consistent with its MSW Program requirements, licensing, accreditation and national standards. These benchmarks and requirements are stated in the MSW Program student handbook and the MSW Program website.

All probation and/or dismissal recommendations based upon lack of professionalism or professional misconduct in a practicum or professional fieldwork settling shall be submitted to the Graduate School and only the Graduate School may officially place students on probation or dismiss students. The SSW and the MSW Program may not place students on probation, nor dismiss students from the MSW Program unless authorized to do so by the Graduate School.

A recommendation for probation and/or dismissal due to lack of professionalism or professional misconduct shall follow the procedures stated in this Dismissal Policy for dismissals based upon failure to make adequate progress as stated in Section D(2) or dismissal without probation as stated in Section E, whichever section is applicable. 

H: Appeal Process

  1. Student’s Appeal Request.

The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice to submit an appeal to the SSW. The SSW then shall have ten (10) Working Days to submit the student’s appeal to the Graduate School. Within ten (10) Working Days of receipt of the student’s written request for appeal, the dean of the Graduate School (“Graduate Dean”) shall review the student’s appeal and provide the student with written notification of the opportunity for a review conference on the appeal (“Appeal Conference”). 

  1. Appeal Conference.

The Appeal Conference shall be administered by the Graduate Dean. The Appeal Conference is a meeting that is not intended to be adversarial in nature. The student may be accompanied by an advisor during the Appeal Conference, who may serve in a support role to the student during the Appeal Conference. In this process, the advisor has no right to speak during the Appeal Conference except to the student.

If a student, who has been given notice does not appear for the Appeal Conference with the Graduate Dean, then the review conference shall proceed in the absence of the student.

The Appeal Conference is the time for presentation of the information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal. The Appeal Conference is the time at which the student is afforded the opportunity to present information, documents or witnesses on the student’s behalf. Witnesses may present a statement to the Graduate Dean; however, only the Graduate Dean is allowed to ask questions of any witnesses. Furthermore, the Recommending Party has the opportunity to participate in the Appeal Conference and may present information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal recommendation. The Graduate Dean also may include representatives from the MSW Program in the Appeal Conference.

The Appeal Conference shall occur within thirty-five (35) Working Days but no earlier than ten (10) Working Days after the date the Dismissal Notice was sent to the student by email or by personal delivery. The student can make a written request to the Graduate Dean asking that the 10-day period be waived if the student wants the Appeal Conference to occur sooner. If necessary, the student can make a written request to the Graduate Dean for an extension of time for the Appeal Conference and the Graduate Dean in their sole discretion, may grant the extension with regard to the Appeal Conference. If an extension of time for the Appeal Conference has been granted by the Graduate Dean, the Appeal Conference shall take place no later than forty-five (45) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice.

  1. Written Decision.

After a review of all the materials, statements and relevant circumstances, the Graduate Dean shall issue a written decision setting forth the reasons upon which the final decision is based. The Graduate Dean’s determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the student engaged in behavior or actions related to the MSW Program that warrant dismissal.

If the Graduate Dean does not uphold the recommendation for dismissal, the student shall be reinstated in the MSW Program. The Graduate Dean shall provide the written decision to the student and the MSW Program within five (5) Working Days after the Appeal Conference.

  1. Decision Final.

The decision of the Graduate Dean is final and is not subject to appeal.

I: Discontinuation for Non-Enrollment

Pursuant to the Academic Policies of the Graduate School, a student is required to be enrolled in either: (1) three (3) graduate-level credits per semester; or (2) the minimum number of credits agreed to by the Graduate School and the student prior to the beginning of the semester (the “Continuous Enrollment Policy”). Any student in violation of the Continuous Enrollment Policy is subject to discontinuation from the MSW Program and the student’s academic record shall be closed.

The Graduate School shall notify a student prior to the beginning of the next semester if they are in danger of violating the Continuous Enrollment Policy (“Discontinuation Notice”). The Discontinuation Notice shall be issued by the Graduate School within 10 (ten) business days prior to the beginning of the semester. The Discontinuation Notice shall inform the student that failure to register for the minimum number of credits violates the Continuous Enrollment Policy and will result in their discontinuation. If thereafter, the student fails to register for the minimum number of required credits, the student is discontinued from the MSW Program.

If a student is unable to enroll in the minimum number of credits the next semester, the student shall submit a Leave of Absence Form signed by the MSW Program and the Graduate School prior to the start of that next semester. 

Failure to timely submit the Leave of Absence form or failure to return to the MSW Program after the leave of absence has expired shall result in discontinuation from the MSW Program and the student’s academic record shall be closed.

J: Reinstatement Following Discontinuation

Students who were discontinued due to non-enrollment and whose academic record was previously closed may request reinstatement to the MSW Program. A Notice of Reinstatement to Graduate Standing form must be received by the Graduate School no later than the last day of enrollment for the semester in which the reinstatement is to begin.

The decision to reinstate occurs at the discretion of the MSW Program and the Graduate School. The MSW Program may deny the request for reinstatement and require the student to reapply to the MSW Program.

Students whose request for reinstatement is approved by the MSW Program and the Graduate School must pay a reinstatement fee which is equivalent to the application fee.

In some instance, there will have been changes in the MSW Program’s curricular requirements between the time at which the student was enrolled last, and the time when the student is being reinstated. A reinstated student is required to follow the curriculum that was applicable when the student was last enrolled in the program unless the MSW Program agrees in writing to allow the student to follow the most recent curriculum.

A student who has been dismissed from the MSW Program is not permitted to request reinstatement to the MSW Program from which they were dismissed.

Professionalism and professional conduct in field practicum

This policy is effective for the Spring 2024 Semester and beyond.

Introduction about these policies set the tone for professionalism and professional conduct for the student while in practicum setting. These policies comprise the benchmarks or criteria for professionalism and professional conduct as stated in Section G of Article III (Dismissal Policy) and can form the basis for a recommendation for probation or dismissal.

A. Field Practicum Setting

  1. Absence Policy

In the event a student misses practicum for any reason, the Student must do the following: (1) Notify their field instructor and/or task supervisor prior to their absence; and (2) follow up with the faculty liaison regarding their absence within 24 hours.

Students are responsible to make up absences(s) with their field instructor and/or task supervisor before the semester deadline. Failure to complete 225 field hours by the end of the semester deadline may result in failing their field seminar course.

Students who falsify their recorded field hours in their time log may be charged with academic dishonesty and sanctioned pursuant to UAM 6,502 (Academic Standards).

  1. Dress Code

The University of Nevada, Reno, School of Social Work expects students to reflect professionalism and maintain standards of professional appearance and grooming in all field practicum settings. Students who do not adhere to this policy will not be permitted to participate in field practicum.

Standard Attire: Student’s attire must be neat, clean and odor-free for all field practicum activities. Students must adhere to practicum site’s dress code.

  1. Field Practicum Settings Requiring Professional Attire: Business casual is expected in most field practicum sites. This means dress slacks, khakis, dress shirt or blouse, open-collar or polo shirt, optional tie or seasonal sport coat, a dress or skirt at knee-length or below, a tailored blazer, knit shirt or sweater.

The following attire is not acceptable for a professional attire setting:

  • Jeans/western cut pants
  • Leggings, athletics pants (i.e. sweats, yoga pants)
  • Shirts and/or sweatshirts with logos
  • Sleeveless shirts (or shirts of underwear type)
  • See-through clothing
  • Clothing exposing a bare midriff, back, or chest
  • Clothing exposing undergarments

Shoes: Footwear must provide safe, secure footing and offer protection against hazards. Footwear should be closed toed, closed heel uniform or shoes with no openings, clean and in good repair.

  1. General Appearance Guidelines
  1. Hair
    1. Hair is to be clean and well groomed. Student should adhere to practicum site’s policy about hair grooming.
  2. Tattoos: 
    1. Visible tattoos are permitted, with the exception of those that may be prohibited by the practicum site or facility. The clinical placement site or facility may require students to cover their tattoos at all times while in the clinical setting.
  3. Other appearance
      1. Good hygiene is expected at all times.
  1. Technology
  1. Students must consider pedagogical theory and research on the use of technology, to make decisions about whether and how to use technology for educational purposes.
  2. Students must adhere to practicum site’s policies and procedures about technology use.
  3. Students must comply with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards to ensure protection of confidential information.
  4. Students must consider relevant needs, risks and challenges to use of technology at their practicum setting.
  5. Students must not utilize practicum site’s technology and/or database for personal purposes.
  1. Social Media

The School of Social Work adheres to NASW Standards for Technology in Social Work Practice. All students must comply with school policies and regulations related to academic and field/clinical performance.

The term social media defines activities that integrate technology, social interaction and construction of words, symbols and pictures. Internet-based electronic application and person website sites that allow the creation and exchange of user-generation content such as but not limited to: profiles, opinions, insights, pictures, videos, experiences, perspectives and media itself. All social media sites are trackable, traceable, and once posted on the internet things can live forever. The following is the School of Social Work, media guidelines for when the student is in a clinical setting:

  • The student shall abide the law and respect copy rights.
  • The student shall be compliant with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and will not use or disclose any patient identifiable information or any patient scenarios of any kind on any social media.
  • Logos from practicum sites may not be utilized by students without written consent from that site.
  • The student is obligated to report suspected violation of this policy to the Field Office.
  • Students utilizing approved video or audio recording through the University of Nevada, Reno, Disability Resource Center, will comply with the alternative media service agreement.
  • It is not appropriate to establish relationships on social media with clients, families, or any practicum site contacts.

Inappropriate use of the internet and social media may result in program probation and/or dismissal.

  1. Informed Consent, Dual Relationships and Conflict of Interest in Field Education
  • For the purpose of this policy, dual relationship is defined when a student relates to clients and/or supervisor in more than one relationship, whether personal, professional, social, or business. Dual or multiple relationships can occur simultaneously or consecutively. Students must comply to relevant laws, regulations and ethical standards related to , dual relationships and conflicts of interest.
  • Students shall adhere to practicum setting’s policies and procedures relating to professional standards and dual relationships.
  • Students shall not, under any circumstance engage in sexual activities, inappropriate sexual communication through the use of technology or in person, or sexual contact with current clients, whether such contact is consensual or forced.
  • Students should not provide services to individuals with whom they have a prior sexual relationship.
  • Students must notify practicum site of any dual relationship with a client to ensure there are no disruption of service delivery to client.
  • Students should not engage in any dual or multiple relationships with field instructors, task supervisors and/or off-site supervisors during field education to reduce potential harm to student and/or clients.
  • Students must disclose any dual relationship(s) with practicum setting and the Field Office.

Failure to notify practicum site and the Field Office may result in in program probation and/or dismissal.

  1. Unsafe Conduct or Practices

Any of the following behaviors by the student while in the field practicum are sufficient grounds for the Field Office to determine that a student is clinically unsafe and cannot continue in field practicum or not competent to continue in the field practicum, either of, which may lead to the student being removed from the field practicum, placed on probation and/or dismissed from the Program.

  • Failure to meet social work professional standards in field education.
  • Refusal/failure to follow School of Social Work regulations and agency protocols.
  • Violating federal, state and practicum confidentiality and privacy laws/policies.
  • Failure to execute critical elements of procedures/protocols/social work practice.
  • Inability to articulate rationale utilizing NASW Code of Ethics for not providing services to diverse and marginalized individuals, families, communities and/or organizations.
  • Failure to disclose dual relationships.
  • Failure to comply with Academic Probation Notice.

When a student’s behaviors or actions while in practicum setting endanger the life, health, well-being or safety or any person at the practicum setting, the student may be removed from the practicum and summarily dismissed from the Program, without probation.

Foundation competencies & associated practice behaviors

Competency 1: Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior

Social workers understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards, as well as relevant laws and regulations that may impact practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Social workers understand frameworks of ethical decision-making and how to apply principles of critical thinking to those frameworks in practice, research, and policy arenas. Social workers recognize personal values and the distinction between personal and professional values. They also understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior. Social workers understand the profession’s history, its mission, and the roles and responsibilities of the profession. Social Workers also understand the role of other professions when engaged in inter-professional teams. Social workers recognize the importance of life-long learning and are committed to continually updating their skills to ensure they are relevant and effective. Social workers also understand emerging forms of technology and the ethical use of technology in social work practice.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, and additional codes of ethics as appropriate to context.
  • Use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in practice situations.
  • Demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic communication.
  • Use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes.
  • Use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior.

Competency 2: Engage diversity and difference in practice

Social workers understand how diversity and difference characterize and shape the human experience and are critical to the formation of identity. The dimensions of diversity are understood as the intersectionality of multiple factors including but not limited to age, class, color, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race, religion/spirituality, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status. Social workers understand that, as a consequence of difference, a person’s life experiences may include oppression, poverty, marginalization, and alienation as well as privilege, power, and acclaim. Social workers also understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and recognize the extent to which a culture’s structures and values, including social, economic, political, and cultural exclusions, may oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create privilege and power.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Apply and communicate understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life experiences in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
  • Present themselves as learners and engage clients and constituencies as experts of their own experiences.
  • Apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies.

Competency 3: Advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice

Social workers understand that every person regardless of position in society has fundamental human rights such as freedom, safety, privacy, an adequate standard of living, health care, and education. Social workers understand the global interconnections of oppression and human rights violations, and are knowledgeable about theories of human need and social justice and strategies to promote social and economic justice and human rights. Social workers understand strategies designed to eliminate oppressive structural barriers to ensure that social goods, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably and that civil, political, environmental, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for human rights at the individual and system levels.
  • Engage in practices that advance social, economic, and environmental justice.

Competency 4: Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice

Social workers understand quantitative and qualitative research methods and their respective roles in advancing a science of social work and in evaluating their practice. Social workers know the principles of logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. Social workers understand that evidence that informs practice derives from multi- disciplinary sources and multiple ways of knowing. They also understand the processes for translating research findings into effective practice.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research.
  • Apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and research findings.
  • Use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.

Competency 5: Engage in policy practice

Social workers understand that human rights and social justice, as well as social welfare and services, are mediated by policy and its implementation at the federal, state, and local levels. Social workers understand the history and current structures of social policies and services, the role of policy in service delivery, and the role of practice in policy development. Social workers understand their role in policy development and implementation within their practice settings at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels and they actively engage in policy practice to effect change within those settings. Social workers recognize and understand the historical, social, cultural, economic, organizational, environmental, and global influences that affect social policy. They are also knowledgeable about policy formulation, analysis, implementation, and evaluation.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well-being, service delivery, and access to social services.
  • Assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social services.
  • Apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice.

Competency 6: Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Social workers understand that engagement is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers value the importance of human relationships. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to facilitate engagement with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand strategies to engage diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to engage with clients and constituencies.
  • Use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and constituencies.

Competency 7: Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Social workers understand that assessment is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in the assessment of diverse clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand methods of assessment with diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers recognize the implications of the larger practice context in the assessment process and value the importance of inter-professional collaboration in this process. Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Collect and organize data, and apply critical thinking to interpret information from clients and constituencies.
  • Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies.
  • Develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies.
  • Select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of clients and constituencies.

Competency 8: Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Social workers understand that intervention is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are knowledgeable about evidence-informed interventions to achieve the goals of clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to effectively intervene with clients and constituencies. Social workers understand methods of identifying, analyzing and implementing evidence-informed interventions to achieve client and constituency goals. Social workers value the importance of interprofessional teamwork and communication in interventions, recognizing that beneficial outcomes may require interdisciplinary, interprofessional, and inter-organizational collaboration.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Critically choose and implement interventions to achieve practice goals and enhance capacities of clients and constituencies.
  • Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in interventions with clients and constituencies.
  • Use inter-professional collaboration as appropriate to achieve beneficial practice outcomes.
  • Negotiate, mediate, and advocate with and on behalf of diverse clients and constituencies.
  • Facilitate effective transitions and endings that advance mutually agreed-on goals.

Competency 9: Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities

Social workers understand that evaluation is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Social workers recognize the importance of evaluating processes and outcomes to advance practice, policy, and service delivery effectiveness. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in evaluating outcomes. Social workers understand qualitative and quantitative methods for evaluating outcomes and practice effectiveness.

Foundation practice behaviors

  • Select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes.
  • Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the evaluation of outcomes.
  • Critically analyze, monitor, and evaluate intervention and program processes and outcomes.
  • Apply evaluation findings to improve practice effectiveness at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.

Grievance procedure

Under the remediation policy, there are 4 points at which a student can initiate a grievance: 

  1. If the student believes that the behavior cited in the original concern is unfounded;
  2. If the student believes that the Remediation Committee's identification of a relevant competency, practice behavior, code of conduct, ethical standard is inaccurate;
  3. If the student believes that the remediation decision or Action Plan does not address the original concern; or
  4. If the student believes they are being held to a higher standard of performance than other students completing the same program of study.

The written grievance should be submitted to the Director of The School of Social Work no later than 10 working days following the decision point in question (see 1-4 above). The burden of proof during the grievance process rests with the student. If the Director determines that the student has provided adequate evidence to support his or her grievance, the Director may dismiss the issue with no further action required. Alternatively, if the Director determines that there is not adequate evidence to support the student’s grievance, he or she will redirect the student to the Remediation Team for further steps/action. The Director will provide his or her decision to the student and Remediation Team in writing within 10 working days of receipt of the student’s written grievance.

Grade appeal policy

The School of Social Work adheres to the University’s policy by which students may appeal a grade. This policy states “…a grade assigned by an instructor is only subject to the appeals procedure if:

  • There was a clerical/administrative error in the calculation and/or assignment of the grade;
  • The grade assignment was based on factors other than the student's performance in the course and/or completion of course requirements; or
  • The grade assignment meant that the student was held to more demanding standards than other students in the same section of the course.

The burden of proof of these conditions rests on the student.” The policy advises students to begin the process by consulting with the course Instructor. If the issue is not resolved at that level students may proceed with filing a Grade Appeal Form. The full policy and procedures for filing a Grade Appeal can be found at under section 3,510 of the University Administrative Manual.