Social Work Agency Practicum
Transform Your Learning
Take the next step to becoming a qualified bachelor's level social worker.
The practicum experience is one of the most vital aspects of your career in the BSW program. You’ll apply what you’ve learned, meet with clients and work closely with practicing social workers. Most importantly, you facilitate real change in your own community.
Practicum Curriculum
In the BSW Program, you'll complete a service-learning experience during spring of junior year and an agency-based practicum in your senior year. These experiences give you the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and skills in a social service setting related to your area of interest.
- Junior service learning focuses on teamwork and professionalism in a human services setting, working with diverse populations.
- In senior practicum placements, you'll work to demonstrate the nine social work competencies. Senior practicum typically requires direct practice with clients (individuals, families and small groups) as practicum placements are developed to ensure students acquire competence in introductory social work generalist skills. Students will also explore macro facets of practice including policy, research and advocacy.
Planning for the Practicum Placement
Practicum placement planning is organized by Jennifer Schanen-Materi, the BSW Practicum Coordinator, who educates students about the placement process, meets with students to discuss their professional interests, maintains relationships with agencies and helps students with challenges that may arise during the course of their placements.
You'll work with Professor Schanen-Materi to secure the junior service-learning experience during fall of your junior year, and your senior practicum during spring of your junior year.
Current BSW students may find more detail about these processes in the BSW Student Portal on Canvas.
Meet a
Phoenix
"UW-Green Bay has allowed me to be a part of multiple internships and opportunities in the community. I had the privilege of working with a diverse range of groups that have ultimately contributed to my professional development as a student and social work professional."
Jasmine Sanchez '23
Social Work Major
Want to Know more?
Meet Professor Jennifer Schanen-Materi, our BSW practicum coordinator. Her interests include group facilitation, program evaluation, historical trauma and healing and mezzo- and macro-practice. If you have questions about the agency-based practicum, she can help!