Foundation content is comprised of eight courses and a field practicum with an emphasis on the following areas: social work values and ethics; diversity; populations at risk, and social and economic justice; human behavior in the social environment; social welfare policy and services; social work practice; research; and business skills for social workers. The foundation field placement is taken in two consecutive semesters for a total of six (6) credit hours per year. Students engage in fieldwork activities for two days a week over two semesters of 30 weeks (480 hours). The foundation field practicum is designed to provide the student with learning experiences that promote the achievement of foundation curriculum objectives and an advanced generalist form of practice.

The concentration content of the program consists of six courses and the field practicum with an emphasis on knowledge, skills, and values for advanced direct practice. The second year concentration field practicum provides assignments essential for fulfilling learning objectives of advanced direct practice. Advanced-level students’ field placement activities are completed over three days each week for two semesters totaling 30 weeks (640 hours).

The regular MSW Program offers three (3) progression options including a full-time, two-year option; a modified full-time, three-year option; and a part-time, four-year option. Please see the MSW Curriculum sheets for details pertaining to each progression option.

The Advanced Standing Program (ASP) is available for qualified Bachelor of Social Work degree graduates. The ASP requires 36 hours for completion of the Master of Social Work Degree. This program consists of nine courses and the field practicum with an emphasis on knowledge, skills, and values for advanced social work practice. Students are assigned a field internship site congruent with the learning objectives of advanced direct practice. Field internships occur over three semesters for a total of 42 weeks (807 hours).

Field Education Program

Each of the four MSW program progression options requires social work field internship experiences. Field sites selected for internships take into account students' interests, professional objectives, and learning needs and are arranged in cooperation with the MSW Program Field Internship Coordinator. These experiences engage students in social service agencies within the Mahoning Valley region under the supervision of a professional social worker. Students are afforded opportunities to learn social work skills important for professional social work practice thereby contributing to their preparation for social work employment.