Master of Social Work (MSW) 

“The intent of field education is to connect the theoretical and conceptual contribution of the classroom with the practical world of the practice setting. Field education is systematically designed, supervised, coordinated, and evaluated on the basis of criteria by which students demonstrate the achievement of program competencies” (CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, 2008). 

Through participation in the social service delivery for the generalist social work practice system, the student comprehends agency structures, functions and programs. Field education instruction is an integral component of social work education; it is the culminating application and analysis portion of the curriculum. Field education teaching is conducted by professional practitioners with an accredited master’s degree in social work, selected by the agency, and approved by the School of Social Work.

A fieldwork requirement for obtaining an MSW is consistent with CSWE educational standards. Foundation year students are required to complete 400 hours, and advanced placement students must complete 500 hours. You will work with the Director of Field Education to identify a practicum opportunity that meets our program learning outcomes.

Field placements offer practice opportunities in a number of the following ways: working with individuals, families, groups, organizations (including faith-based organizations), congregations, neighborhoods and communities; participating in direct practice, in program development and/or implementation, in program and practice evaluation and in assessing and even formulating social policy.

In conjunction with the Director of Field Education, MSW students work together to find an agency that works with the population that interests the student.

The School of Social Work's field director must approve your field site. For more information, contact Candy Dolcy, Director of Field Education, at candydolcy@southern.edu or by calling 423-236-2630.

This field education manual assists MSW students, program faculty, field instructors, and field placement setting personnel in understanding the objectives and requirements for the field education component of the Master of Social Work program at Southern Adventist University. It summarizes the MSW program's current educational policies and procedures and provides guidelines and instructions for field placement assignments. 

View the Manual