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The Smith Master’s
degree program alternates intensive curricular preparation
with rich, closely supervised field internships to provide
the optimum learning experience for tomorrow’s social
work professional. Organized into what is called the Block
Plan, the academic calendar is a full-time master’s
program that begins in June and continues for 27 months, ending
in August. The Block Plan consists of five sessions. Three
10-week academic sessions are held at Smith from June through
mid-August over three successive summers; these are devoted
exclusively to course work (Sessions I, III, and V). In addition,
two intervening 8-month sessions, scheduled from September
through April (Sessions II and IV), are reserved for full-time
(30 hours/week) field work internships in settings across
the country.
>See an overview of the Block Plan
During the first academic summer (June-August/Session
I), courses focus on the knowledge, skills, and values which form
the foundation, or core, of the social work profession. This also
prepares students for the School’s specialization
in clinical practice. Students are introduced to the major
social work methods, the psychological and sociocultural theory upon
which practice rests, the history of social work and social welfare,
social policy analysis, and research methods.
Coursework in the second summer (Session
III) is firmly rooted in an understanding of human development
and adaptation within a sociocultural context utilizing multiple
theories of intervention including: psychodynamic theory, family theories,
and social constructivist and eco-systemic perspectives.
Elective courses (Session V) provide the opportunity for
students to focus on particular areas of interest by exploring content
on specific populations, particular problems, and/or in innovative
practice settings.
The rich curriculum is presented
by an expert and diverse resident faculty who are joined by
a national association of adjuncts who come to campus from
across the country, and around the world, to contribute their
expertise. The unique structure of the School’s academic
calendar makes it possible for these clinicians, who work
at other universities or in the field during the traditional
academic year, to join the Smith community from June through
August. Classes are small, averaging about 20 students, allowing
for personalized attention, small group discussion, and individual
support.
The Smith SSW Field Work experience is
a unique and intensive learning opportunity that provides
students with one of the most advanced training opportunities found
in graduate education. Being nationally based, Smith has the advantage
of selecting from the finest training institutes from across the country,
providing students with a breadth of clinical experience unmatched
by other social work programs. The two supervised field work internships
(September - April/Sessions II and IV) allow students to apply and
integrate their learning from the summer coursework and to practice
their skills in work with individuals, families, and small groups.
Enriching the Field Work experience is the Community Project, which
is completed during the first year of field work. In the second year,
students make use of their research skills and participate actively
in the pursuit or development of knowledge for professional practice
through the completion of a research project; students also complete
an Anti-Racism Field Assignment during the field internship (see Field
Work Internships for more details).
In recognition of the academic accomplishments of prospective students who have received a BSW, the School offers a limited number of BSW Advanced Standing slots; the BSW Advanced Standing program allows students to complete their MSW in 15-months. Graduates of accredited BSW programs who are able to demonstrate second year level clinical practice skills and knowledge may apply for advanced standing. Students accepted begin in June and complete Session III (academic coursework from June to August), Session IV (advanced field internship from September to April), and Session V (final academic session, from June to August). Advanced standing students are also required to complete a research project and the Anti-Racism Field Assignment during their field internship. Candidates considering BSW Advanced Standing status are encouraged to contact or meet with the Director of Admission to discuss their background and plans for application.
updated 09/13/07 |
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Mission Statement
Program Goals and Objectives
The Block Plan
Curriculum
Course Listings
Course Descriptions
Field Work
Field Placements
Degree Requirements
& Academic Policies
Recent Thesis Titles
Master's Thesis
Community Project Requirements
Research Internship Opportunities
Academic Calendar
Admission to the
MSW Program |
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