School Social Work Emphasis
School Social Work is one of the emphases students may choose to focus their area of specialized practice. This emphasis prepares students with the knowledge and skills needed for an advanced career in a school setting. This program prepares social workers to apply for licensure with the state of Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and obtain employment in a K-12 Wisconsin school. This emphasis is accomplished through coursework, electives, and a specialized practicum placement.
The School Social Work Certificate Program requires all candidates to undergo a caregiver background check no more than 6 months before starting the program. Results of each BG check will be reviewed by the School Social Work Coordinator, and in cooperation with the campus legal consultant, addressing any potential candidates who fall outside the parameters of this implementation including convictions for crimes as per s. 115.31 (2g). Each candidate will be notified and consulted in a formal meeting regarding the possible ramifications on licensure and employment.
School Social Worker
"I was able to secure a position as a school social worker upon graduation, and the School Social Work program at UW-Green Bay gave me the skills and confidence to advocate for students and families in meaningful ways... even as an off-campus student balancing work and family, I always felt supported by the faculty’s expertise, and I am grateful for how the program prepared me to foster safe, supportive and equitable learning environments."
Layla Beckermann '24, MSW, APSW
School Social Worker
Hayward Community School District
School Social Work Emphasis Requirements
Requirements are established by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).
Core Courses
Complete all:
- SOC WORK 720: Diversity, Social Justice, and Advocacy
- SOC WORK 721: Multi-Level Family Systems
- SOC WORK 728: Advanced Policy: Leadership, Advocacy and Practice
- SOC WORK 731: Research for MSW Practice
Electives
Complete the following:
- SOC WORK 751: Social Work Practice in Schools
- SOC WORK 761: Overview of Wisconsin DPI School Social Work Standards
- SOC WORK 767: Assessing Risk, Resilience, and Psychopathology in Social Work
- EDUC 545: The Exceptional Child in Regular Education
And an understanding of ACT 31 through a course or workshop
Practicum
Two days per week for two consecutive semesters (total 500 hours): K-12 School
- SOC WORK 716: Practicum III
- SOC WORK 717: Seminar III
- SOC WORK 718: Practicum IV
- SOC WORK 719: Capstone Seminar
Post-MSW Graduates
Post-MSW graduates who are interested in changing their career path to school social work may be interested in our School Social Work Certificate program.
Contact Us
We're here to answer your questions. For more information on UW-Green Bay's Master of Social Work program, how to get started, or any other needs, please contact us.