D R E A MbiggerConcentrations

ClinicalCo-Chairs: Paul Sacco, PhD, and Ed Pecukonis, PhDThe goal of the clinical program is to educate a practitioner who works to improve the quality of life and enhance the social functioning of individuals, families, and small groups through direct service. Clinical social workers are active in the promotion, restoration, maintenance, and enhancement of the functioning of their clients and clients’ systems, in the prevention of distress, and in the provision of resources.

MacroCo-Chairs: Tanya Sharpe, PhD, and Corey Shdaimah, PhDThe Macro concentration seeks to develop new and better services, social programs, and social policies. Macro social work practice includes community organizing and development, social planning, policy analysis and development, political and social action, advocacy and government and nonprofit agency administration and resource development. Advanced field practicum for Macro students includes opportunities to engage in program development, community organizing, legislative advocacy, employee assistance, and grass-roots leadership development. Many of these field placements include stipends.

Secondary Concentration OptionIt is also possible to elect a secondary concentration in conjunction with a primary one. Students who select a Primary and Secondary concentration (i.e., Clinical/Macro) are placed in their Advanced Field Practicum based upon their Primary concentration (in this case, Clinical). A secondary concentration will expose the student to some of the content from the other concentration through study in two courses.

A student interested in this educational plan would satisfy all of the requirements for either the Clinical or Macro concentration, including the diversity requirement. The student would also complete two courses from the other concentration. Thirty-six advanced credits are required at a minimum. Students choosing a secondary concentration must develop their plan of study carefully.

MISSION AND GOALSAll educational programs and activities at the University of Maryland School of Social Work are informed by our mission: The mission at the University of Maryland School of Social Work is to develop practitioners, leaders, and scholars to advance the well-being of people and communities and to promote social justice. As national leaders, we create and use knowledge for education, service, innovation, and policy development.

▸ for advanced practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and society;

▸ for advanced practice in a method of concentration and an area of specialization; and,

▸ to practice in a manner that reflects the principles underlying the Social Work Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW);

▸ to practice effectively with, and on behalf of, systems and people of diverse backgrounds and needs;

▸ to practice with, and on behalf of, vulnerable populations, populations in-need and oppressed populations;

▸ to practice in a manner that promotes social and economic justice;

▸ to practice utilizing a person-environment framework and a strengths perspective;

▸ to appreciate the importance of continuing professional development and of contributing to the knowledge and skill base of the profession.

Goals of the MSW Program Our goals are to prepare students: