MSW Field Work: Benefit From a One-of-a-Kind Experience
Learn by Doing With a Hands-On Approach
As part of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Sacred Heart University, our unique Field Experience model is designed for students to practice their social work skills in a hands-on work environment.
Field placements typically begin in the fall and run through the spring semester. While fulfilling your field experience requirement, you will also be taking courses that correspond with your field practicum.
Students most often complete their field work at community health clinics, hospitals, legislative offices, public health agencies, and senior centers. By being placed in a field work location, you will be asked to fully commit to and serve the interests of the placement organization and their clients to the best of your ability.
Prepare Yourself for a Successful Field Experience
Before starting your field experience, you must:
- Be in good program status
- Have a 3.0 average GPA
- Score a 3.0 on the Rubric for Professional Behavior
- Complete the Generalist Year practicum for Specialized Year placement
For further field placement requirements, request more information or call us at (877) 791-7181
Experienced Liaisons Help You Help Others
Our trained Field Experience Liaisons work directly with you starting one year before you even go into the field, with a level of support unmatched by other schools. Field liaisons are responsible for:
- Assisting with résumé preparation
- Practicing interview techniques
- Coaching and guiding you throughout the entire field work process
- Seeking out field locations
Once placed, students will be assigned another faculty member who will work with them for the duration of their placement.
“Obtaining my MSW will allow me to work in a setting where clinical experience is required, such as a hospital. It has been my dream to be a hospital social worker because of my own story of having a disability and spending time in a hospital. Sacred Heart is, and will, help me make that dream a reality.”
– Katie Tomlinson, Online Master of Social Work Student, 2019
Your Questions Answered
Choosing to pursue an online degree comes with a lot of questions. We’re here to help you find the answers you’re looking for about your program of study and field work experience. If you have a question we haven’t covered, call (877) 791-7181 to speak with a program manager or request more information.