Social work is a dynamic profession concerned with the changing needs of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and society. For those who are interested in this professional commitment, social work offers a broad range of practice settings: community mental health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, family service agencies, and community service agencies. In addition, professional social workers serve as administrators of various social service agencies. They also work in all levels of government, education, and a number of social workers have assumed political or legislative careers. The education and training they receive in a Master of Social Work (MSW) program provides them with the skills they need to choose a career within the broad area of social work. The School of Social Work MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Students in this focus area assess mental health and addictions issues from person-in-environment, consumer focused, strengths-based, recovery-oriented, and other relevant perspectives. Competence in formulating intervention, prevention, or support and maintenance plans collaboratively with clients.
Students gain preparation to serve as case managers, counselors, clinicians, and advocates for and with mental health and addictions consumers. Also, they are able to seek, discover, and evaluate relevant research studies and apply findings in evidence-based social work practice. Within the context of their practice, they conduct empirical evaluations of the effectiveness of interventions and services.