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 For an archived version of a previous year's handbook, please contact Program Coordinator Sara Thompson-Kirby at sarat@unr.edu or MSW Program Advisor Olga Martinez or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:
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW), 750 First St. NE., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20002-4241.
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:
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), 1725 Duke St., Suite 500, Alexandria, VA 22314-3457.
Information on licensing requirements and testing procedures for each State may be obtained from State licensing authorities, or from:
- Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), 400 South Ridge Pkwy., Suite B, Culpeper, VA 22701.
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:
- Identify as professionals, committed to social work’s ethical principles, continuous learning and service that meets the needs of vulnerable and diverse populations.
- 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;
- 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;
- Use research to inform practice decisions as well as produce and analyze data to identify client needs, emerging trends and evaluate interventions;
- 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
- 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 Graduate Director Dr. Eugenia Weiss at eugeniaw@unr.edu, 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).
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:
- 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;
- An overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or 3.25 in the last 60 credits of undergraduate study; 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.
- Evidence of the ability to formulate and present material logically and clearly in written and oral communication;
- 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.
- 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:
- A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or 3.25 in the last two years of undergraduate study with at least a “B-” 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.
- Documentation of proficient performance in a BSW field experience as documented by the student’s social work field supervisor (BSW field performance evaluation).
- 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 (on-campus)
Transfer credits refer to credits that are transferred from another institution. Credits completed at the University of Nevada, Reno in another program or as a graduate special do not need to be transferred. Transfer credit can be requested on the Graduate Credit Transfer Evaluation Request form available on Graduate School website, and must be signed by the student, major advisor, and graduate director. 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. Credits from a completed master’s degree will be exempt from the 8-year time limitation for those students pursuing a doctoral degree.
Consistent with this Graduate School policy, the School of Social Work accepts no more than nine credits from a CSWE accredited social work program.
For requests that meet the above guidelines, student requests to transfer credits or to substitute a course are 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 Coordinator makes a determination regarding the course equivalencies. Only foundation-level (600-level) courses may be considered for transfer credit or course waiver/substitution.
Transfer credit (online)
Transfer credits from another institution are not allowed in the online MSW program. Limited exceptions apply with regard to select social work courses taken at UNR as a graduate special student. Requests are evaluated by the MSW Program Coordinator on a case-by-case basis.
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.
- Advanced 30-credit program of study
- Traditional 60-credit program of study
- 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.
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 610 | Structural Oppression | 3 |
SW 620 | SW Methods with Individuals | 3 |
SW 624 | SW Methods w/Couples and Families | 3 |
SW 630 | SW History & Social Welfare Policy | 3 |
SW 680 | Foundation Practicum I | 3 |
SW 611 | Theoretical Perspectives On Human Behavior | 3 |
SW 623 | SW Methods w/ Orgs, Comms & Legs | 3 |
SW 681 | Foundation Practicum II | 3 |
SW 621 | SW Methods with Groups | 3 |
SW 640 | Elements of Evidence Informed Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|
SW 710 | Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment | 3 |
SW 720 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Individuals | 3 |
SW 723 | SW Administration I | 3 |
SW 780 | Advanced Practicum I | 3 |
SW 721 | Intervention Approaches with Groups | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|
SW 724 | Therapeutic Interventions with Families | 3 |
SW 725 | SW Administration II | 3 |
SW 741 | Practice and Program Evaluation | 3 |
SW 781 | Advanced Practicum II | 3 |
SW 793 | Integrative Case-Based Seminar: Advanced Generalist Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 610 | Structural Oppression | 3 |
SW 630 | SW History & Social Welfare Policy | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 611 | Theoretical Perspectives On Human Behavior | 3 |
SW 623 | SW Methods w/ Orgs, Comms & Legs | 3 |
SW 640 | Elements of Evidence Informed Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 620 | SW Methods with Individuals | 3 |
SW 624 | SW Methods w/ Couples and Families | 3 |
SW 680 | Foundation Practicum I | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 621 | SW Methods with Groups | 3 |
SW 681 | Foundation Practicum II | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 710 | Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment | 3 |
SW 720 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Individuals | 3 |
SW 723 | SW Administration I | 3 |
SW 780 | Advanced Practicum I | 3 |
SW 721 | Intervention Approaches with Groups | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 724 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Families | 3 |
SW 725 | SW Administration II | 3 |
SW 741 | Practice and Program Evaluation | 3 |
SW 781 | Advanced Practicum II | 3 |
SW 793 | Integrative Case-Based Seminar: Advanced Generalist Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 610 | Structural Oppression | 3 |
SW 630 | SW History & Social Welfare Policy | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 611 | Theoretical Perspectives On Human Behavior | 3 |
SW 623 | SW Methods w/ Orgs, Comms & Legs | 3 |
SW 640 | Elements of Evidence Informed Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 620 | SW Methods with Individuals | 3 |
SW 624 | SW Methods w/ Couples and Families | 3 |
SW 680 | Foundation Practicum I | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 621 | SW Methods with Groups | 3 |
SW 681 | Foundation Practicum II | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 710 | Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment | 3 |
SW 723 | SW Administration I | 3 |
SW 721 | Intervention Approaches with Groups | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 725 | SW Administration II | 3 |
SW 741 | Practice and Program Evaluation | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 720 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Individuals | 3 |
SW 780 | Advanced Practicum I | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 724 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Families | 3 |
SW 781 | Advanced Practicum II | 3 |
SW 793 | Integrative Case-Based Seminar: Advanced Generalist Practice | 3 |
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.
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 710 | Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment | 3 |
SW 720 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Individuals | 3 |
SW 723 | SW Administration I | 3 |
SW 780 | Advanced Practicum I | 3 |
SW 721 | Intervention Approaches with Groups | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 724 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Families | 3 |
SW 725 | SW Administration II | 3 |
SW 741 | Practice and Program Evaluation | 3 |
SW 781 | Advanced Practicum II | 3 |
SW 793 | Integrative Case-Based Seminar: Advanced Generalist Practice | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 710 | Advanced Multi-Dimensional Assessment | 3 |
SW 723 | SW Administration I | 3 |
SW 721 | Intervention Approaches with Groups | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 725 | SW Administration II | 3 |
SW 741 | Practice and Program Evaluation | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 720 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Individuals | 3 |
SW 780 | Advanced Practicum I | 3 |
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
SW 724 | Therapeutic Interventions w/ Families | 3 |
SW 781 | Advanced Practicum II | 3 |
SW 793 | Integrative Case-Based Seminar: Advanced Generalist Practice | 3 |
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.
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.
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:
- If the student believes that the behavior cited in the original concern is unfounded;
- If the student believes that the Remediation Committee's identification of a relevant competency, practice behavior, code of conduct, ethical standard is inaccurate;
- If the student believes that the remediation decision or Action Plan does not address the original concern; or
- 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.