Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines · changing sections of two-semester 1st year...

Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines 2012/2013 Edition

Simmons College School of Social WorkRevised July 10, 2012

Table of Contents

ADMINISTRATION 2012-2013 viii

SIMMONS SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK 1POLICIES AND PROCEDURES 1The MasTer of social Work (MsW) 1 Program Goals 1A DEFINITION OF CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE 1 The School of Social Work 1PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, ACADEMIC INTEGRITy AND HONOR CODE 2 Code of Ethics and SSW Professional Standards 2 Violations of code of ethics and ssW Professional standards 2 academic standards committee and hearings 2 academic standards committee and re-entry Decisions 3 Honor Code 3 honor code violations, including plagiarism and other academic misconduct such as cheating 3 Plagiarism 3 appeals 4GRADING 4GRADES IN FIELD for further explanation, please see the field Manual at (add link) 4

Grading scale: for classes:letter Grades 4Grading Scale for Field Placement: 4Grading Chart 5audits 5Non-Matriculation Grade Policy 5incompletes 6extension 6Grade Grievance Policy and Procedure 7academic Probation 7

DISMISSAL FOR ACADEMIC AND MISCONDUCT REASONS 7TRANSFER AND WAIVER POLICIES 7

Transfer course credits from another MsW program 7Transfer of an elective course taken at another institution 8Transfer students applying to simmons from other MsW programs 8Waivers for students who receive advanced standing in the MsW program 8

Table of Contents continued

Waiver of requirement (research or assessment and Diagnosis) 8WAITLIST POLICy 9INDEPENDENT STUDIES 9ADD/DROP AND CLASS WITHDRAWALS 9

add/Drop 9changing sections of two-semester 1st year classes 9Drop/ Withdrawal after the second class 9Drop/ Withdrawal from field Placement after the add/drop period 10

eDUcaTioNal PlaNNiNG coMMiTTee (ePc) 10 Procedures for an ePc 10MiD-seMesTer acaDeMic reVieW 11WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS 11

submission of papers 11rewriting of graded papers 11

CHANGE OF PROGRAM STATUS/PROGRAM COMPLETION 11DEGREE COMPLETION POLICy 11LEAVES AND WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM 12

Withdrawal from the Program 12Leaves of Absence 12Voluntary leave of absence 12conditional leave of absence 12Medical Leave of Absence 12Mandatory leave of absence for Medical, Psychiatric and/or Performance reasons 13reentry after mandatory leave 13academic standards committee re-entry review. 13

GRADUATION POLICy 13 august Graduation 14ATTENDANCE 14 religious observance/student absence 14 field Placement attendance (add link to handbook attendance section) 15CORRESPONDENCE FROM SSW 15COURSE EVALUATIONS 15TUITION REFUND SCHEDULE 15ADMISSIONS 15 MSW Program 15

Table of Contents continued

Process and Procedure for evaluating applicants 15OTHER ADMISSIONS REqUIREMENTS 16 statistics 16 final Transcripts 16 other requirements 16 Mandatory health insurance 16STUDENT PARTICIPATION GOVERNANCE 16 committees and other opportunities for participation 16 student Government association 16 student organizations 17OTHER SIMMONS COLLEGE POLICIES 17*in some instances the school of social Work and the college may have different policies, an example is, the leave of absence Policy. in the instance where the policies differ, usually the school of social Work policy takes precedence. 17

information on the family educational rights and Privacy act (ferPa) can be found at http://www.sim-mons.edu/handbook/conduct/policies-procedures.php 17Please visit http://my.simmons.edu/life/handbook/conduct/index.shtml for college Policies on the fol-lowing topics. 17

appendix i

STANDARDS FOR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE EDUCATION 19

academic Guidelines 2012/2013 edition

ADVISING 22 Academic Services Center 22 extended Program advising 22 Field Advising 22oPTioNs for coMPleTiNG The M.s.W. DeGree 23 The full-Time Program 23 The extended-study Program 23 extended January Matriculation 23 Working and the extended Program 23 The Advanced Standing Program 23 M.s.W./Urban leadership Program 24 One-year Placement 24 sample two Year full-time plan 25 extended Program sample schedule, Three Year Plan 26 extended Program sample schedule, January Matriculation 27 extended Program sample schedule, four Year Plan 28 Urban leadership Program sample Two Year full- Time Plan 29 Urban leadership Program sample schedule, January Matriculation 30 advanced standing Program sample schedule 31 one Year Placement option (oYo) sample schedule 32AREAS OF SPECIALIzATION INFORMATION AND DESCRIPTIONS 33 clinical specialization child and family 34 clinical specialization health and aging 35 clinical specialization Mental health and substance abuse 36 clinical specialization Trauma and interpersonal Violence 37MSW/MBA COORDINATED DEGREE 38INTERDISCIPLINARy PROGRAM IN SOCIAL WORK AND PUBLIC HEALTH WITH HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 39COURSE CREDIT CHECK LISTS 40fUll-TiMe aND exTeNDeD ProGraM check lisT 40 Urban leadership Program course credit check list 41 advanced standing Program course credit check list 43 oYo Program course credit check list 44

FIELD EDUCATION 45REGISTRATION 45 clinical Practice electives 46 social action electives 47PREREqUISITES 48GRADUATION INFORMATION 48 (see the Graduation Policy an page 13 of the Policy handbook) 48 Conferral Dates: 48 august Graduation 48 Diplomas: 48 Transcripts 49 Graduation requirements 49STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES 50STUDENT CONFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP FUND 50AWARDS 50 THE SHIRLEy SAKS GREENBERG AWARD: 51 THE IRIS MACRAE AWARD: 51 achieVeMeNT iN PoliTical acTioN aND social JUsTice aWarD: 51 OUTSTANDING COMPETENCE IN MULTICULTURAL PRACTICE: 51 FACULTy LEADERSHIP AWARD: 51 THE COMMUNITy SERVICE AWARD: 51 WRITTEN SCHOLARSHIP IN SOCIAL WORK: 51 THE PRISCILLA MULLEN RILEy AWARD: 51

appendix iI & Forms

ADD/DROP FORM 53LEAVE OF ABSENCE FORM 54PETITION TO GRADUATE 56REqUEST FOR SPECIALIzATION 57REqUEST TO CHANGE SPECIALIzATION 58TRANFER OF CREDIT FORMS 59 Petition to Transfer credits (enetering students only) 59 Transfer evaluation form (new MsW students only) 60 request to take elective at another institution or study abroad/Transfer of credit form 61

ADMINISTRATION 2012-2013

stefan krugDean; Palace road Building, room P-404F 617-521-3929

sherdena cofieldassistant Dean for academic Programs and Diversity and Urban leadership Program Director

Patricia flahertyAdmission, Assistant Director

Carlos FrontadoAdmission, Director

Ellen Goodmanfield education, Director

Thomas Harriganfield education, assistant Director and advanced standing coordinator

Michael MelendezMSW Program Director

suzanne Mullarkeyregistration coordinator and academic services center advisor

Nancy Poorvuhealth and aging, specialization coordinator

Jennifer PutneyMental health and addictions, specialization coordinator

suzanne sankarassistant Dean for student affairs

Linda SanfordTrauma & interpersonal Violence, specialization coordinator

Tien Ungchildren & families, specialization coordinator

June 4, 2012Dear students, faculty, and staff,

i’m sure you will find this handbook a useful resource during your time with us at the school of social Work. Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with its contents. changes to specific policies and procedures may be introduced during the academic year, and can be found in the online version of this handbook posted on the ssW website www.simmons.edu/ssw. Please be sure to check the online handbook if you have questions about the currency of particular policies and procedures.

sincerely,

stefan krug, Dean

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Handbook of MSW PoliciES and acadEMic GuidElinES

SIMMONS SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORKPOLICIES AND PROCEDURES

The MasTer of social Work (MsW)

The Master of social Work degree prepares graduates for advanced practice in clinical social work. students can elect to specialize in their advanced year in one of four specialization areas. MsW students can also earn a certificate in Urban leadership. students can complete the degree in two years, three or four years. The MsW degree requires 66 credit hours, consisting of 44 credit hours of classroom courses 18 credits hours of field placement.

Mission Statement

The mission of the MsW program is to prepare masters level professional practitioners with skills for clinical social work practice in a multicultural world using knowledge based on scientific inquiry and field-informed practice. This educational experience, consistent with the history and philosophy of the social work profession, is grounded in a values perspective that emphasizes client strengths and diversities, actively opposes all forms of oppression and supports social and econom-ic justice. The education is designed to help students develop competence, critical thinking and problem solving abilities as well as cultural sensitivity, and self-awareness. students learn multiple social work roles and skills necessary to be effective within evolving fields of practice. Graduates will be able to work with a variety of populations and social issues, using a broad and flexible array of interventions at an advanced level. They will have the ability to work with individuals, families, groups and communities to facilitate develop-ment and change in the service of social justice. Graduates will be prepared to practice with an appreciation for the dignity and worth of the person and the importance of human relationships; with a sense of integrity and a commitment to hu-man rights.

Program Goals

1. Provide education for generalist practice and a concentration in clinical social work in a learning environment that models respect for diversity. 2. infuse all activities of the school including the implicit and explicit curricula, with the values and ethics of the social work profession.3. Prepare students for competent ethical practice in a multicultural world. 4. Prepare students to practice in the context of a complex, rapidly changing global environment.5. Promote the development of professional knowledge and skills and accountability through critical thinking, self reflection and a commitment to life-long learning.

A DEFINITION OF CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

a disciplined process for collaboration in service of social, emotional, and behavioral change for individuals, groups, families, organizations, and communities. clinical social work draws on knowledge of human development, relational and group process, cultural learning, and social policies. it employs evidence informed methods which facilitate change through dialogue and collective action. it is grounded in a history of commitment to social justice and guided by a profes-sional code of ethics.

The School of Social Work

The office of the Dean of the school of social Work (ssW) provides leadership for the MsW and PhD programs. The Dean’s office develops and implements policies and procedures regarding admissions, academic standing and student requests and petitions. The dean is responsible for the faculty and budgets. There are also two assistant deans who oversee curricu-lum development, student services, admissions, field education, and special programs.

SiMMonS collEGE ScHool of Social WoRk

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PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, ACADEMIC INTEGRITy AND HONOR CODE

Code of Ethics and SSW Professional Standards

students are expected to adhere to the NasW code of ethics and established norms, values, and behavior in their field placement and classroom. The NasW code of ethics outlines behaviors and responsibilities expected of professional social workers. students are considered professional social workers. students should obtain a copy of the NasW code of ethics and become familiar with its contents. students are also expected to be familiar with and abide by the simmons school of social Work standards of Professional Practice (see Appendix I)

Violations of code of ethics and ssW Professional standards

failure to meet generally accepted standards of professional conduct, ethics, personal integrity and/or emotional stabil-ity requisite for professional social work practice as outlined in the code of ethics and the ssW Professional standards may constitute grounds for a academic standards committee ( acs) hearing. in addition, inappropriate or disruptive behavior towards clients, colleagues, fellow students, faculty, staff (at school or placement) may also be reason for referral to the acs. sanctions by the committee include: refusal of admissions, probation, mandatory leave or dismissal.

academic standards committee and hearings

The academic standards committee of the ssW will hear ethical, behavioral and conduct violations not deemed appropriate for an educational Planning committee meeting or for the college’s honor Board

The asc is a standing committee of the ssW whose membership is comprised of an assistant Dean, a member of the field education department, a faculty member and a student. one faculty person should be a person of color. The term of service is two years and membership terms are staggered. student membership is governed by the follow guidelines:

early in the fall, the sGa will select 3-4 students to be on the asc. (students can volunteer to be on the committee, or if in the case of many students volunteering, the sGa will select 3-4 students). When a hearing is to be held, the acs will send an email out to the student members of the committee requesting participation. one student will participate in the hearing. if several students are able to participate in the meeting, students will rotate turns. students may opt not to participate in the hearing if they feel they cannot be impartial or if there is a conflict of interest. The student is a full voting member of the committee and participates in the entire process.

When a charge of misconduct is brought forward, the assistant Dean, in consultation with committee decides whether to convene the asc. The student will be informed of the charge by the assistant Dean. The student will meet with the assis-tant Dean to review the charges and to be informed of the committee process. at the hearing, the student will have an opportunity to examine and respond to the charge. other involved parties, including the person who brought the charge or concern to the committee’s attention, can attend the meeting to share pertinent information. all deliberations of the com-mittee are confidential. Proceedings of the meeting are kept by the office of the assistant Dean and destroyed at the time of student graduation.

The asc makes a finding as to the charge, and determines the consequences, which may include dismissal from the program. other sanctions include but are not limited to: additional course work, mandatory leave, and probation.

Whatever the asc determination, the findings and consequences are effective immediately.Upon the decision of the committee a written notification is sent to the dean and the student.

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When there is a finding of the asc, the written notification will be placed in the student’s file.

if there is no finding, no notation of the charge is kept in the student file.

a student can appeal the finding. (see Appeals Section for policy on Appeals).

academic standards committee and re-entry Decisions

in cases where a student has been placed on a mandatory or conditional leave, the asc may be convened to review and decide on a student’s readiness to return. (see Re-entry from mandatory leave in the Leaves and Withdrawals from the Program section)

Honor Code

ssW students are expected to adhere to the honor code of simmons college.

honor code violations, including plagiarism and other academic misconduct such as cheating

Plagiarism and other academic misconduct cases are brought to the simmons college honor Board. When necessary, the assistant Dean of the ssW will confer with the assistant Dean for Graduate students when there are questions about whether a charge should be heard by asc or the honor Board.

Plagiarism

Plagiarizing is defined as intentionally or unintentionally using someone else’s words or thoughts without giving proper credit.

When a source is not cited, it is assumed that the words, thoughts and ideas are the sole product of the student. When a student uses material from another source, the extent and nature of the borrowing must, to avoid the charge of dishonesty, be fully and explicitly noted in the text or footnotes. Direct quotations must be differentiated from the text by using quota-tion marks or by indenting and single spacing and be accompanied by appropriate aPa citation. it is the responsibility of the student to learn the proper forms of citation and referencing.

The use of papers or other work obtained from commercial or other services is a clear case of plagiarism and is specifically prohibited.

handing in as one’s own work a paper on which a student has received extensive help without acknowledging that help is plagiarism.

students who, for whatever reason, submit work not their own are subject to disciplinary action.


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appeals

The dismissal of a student from the program may be appealed to the Dean in writing within seven days after receipt of the dismissal letter. The Dean will only consider an appeal when new evidence is presented regarding the circumstances that led to dismissal. When the Dean does consider an appeal, the student will receive a decision in writing within two weeks after the appeal is received by the Dean.

for any asc hearing or honor Board hearing that results in a dismissal and the student submits an appeal to the Dean, the Dean will have access to the minutes of the committee meeting. The Dean will review the minutes along with any new evi-dence. The Dean can consult with any committee members for further clarification of the committee decision.

if the appeal is accepted, the Dean creates the re-entry criteria and shares the criteria with the asc. The Dean can consult with the asc regarding the re-entry criteria.

The asc serves as the committee to review and approve re-entry requests. The committee may amend or add to the re-entry criteria specified by the Dean at the time of the reentry hearing. Generally this will mean requiring the student to use selec-tive supports after they resume studies.

GRADING

students are evaluated in each course based on the criteria outlined in the course syllabus. students in field education are evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the field manual and in the semester end evaluation. all students are expected to perform according to the NasW code of ethics and the ssW standards for Professional Practice.

Grading Scale: for classes: letter Grades

a excellent Performancea- Very good PerformanceB+ Good PerformanceB satisfactory PerformanceB- Marginal Performancec/D Unsatisfactory PerformanceF Failing Performance

Grades in Field Placement for further explanation, please see the field Manual.

Grading Scale for Field Placement:

field placement is graded each semester with Pass, Marginal Pass, or Fail

Pass: satisfactory to excellent performance

Marginal Pass: unsatisfactory, marginal performance

fail: failing performance

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Grading Chart

audits

1. a student must have permission from the assistant Dean to audit a class. 2. formal audits are permitted if there is space in a given class (registration can occur oNlY two weeks prior to the start of class). only one class may be audited per semester. The tuition for an audit is the cost of one credit in the program.3. auditing students may be exempt from papers and exams, but are expected to attend all classes, complete the readings, and meet any additional requirements at the discretion of the instructor.4. students will receive no grade and no credit for audits.5. Please contact the registration coordinator if you are planning to audit a class.6. instructors cannot approve an audit for which a student has not registered. registration must be through the ssW registration coordinator.

Non-Matriculation Grade Policy

a non-matriculated student must receive a “B” or better in his or her first class to remain eligible to take a second class.

GRADING CHART

Created October 6, 2008

CONSEQUENCES OF MARGINAL PASSES, FAILS, AND GRADES FOR COURSE WORK AND FIELD PLACEMENT GRADE(S) CONSEQUENCE Classes 1 B-, C, or D EPC meeting, possible repeat of class Field Placement 1MP Academic Probation, EPC, possible extension of placement or

extra semester or year of placement, at student’s own expense. Student must take (may audit) practice class while in field placement. Must obtain a passing grade or be assessed as having performance equivalent to a passing grade

Classes 2 B-, C, or D Academic Probation, EPC, possible repeat of class Field Placement 2 MP EPC, Possible dismissal from program, Academic Probation,

extra semester or year of field at own expense, must obtain a passing grade, concurrent practice class while in field (may audit)

Classes 3 B-, C or D Dismissal from Program Field Placement 3 MP Dismissal from Program Class and Field 3 MP or B-, C, or D

Dismissal from Program

Class or Field F or Fail Dismissal from Program


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incompletes

a request for an incomplete is made by the student to the instructor. The request must be made before the end of the course. an incomplete is assigned only at the discretion of the instructor. incompletes will only be granted when coursework cannot be completed for a serious and compelling reason, such as family crisis or illness. incompletes are assigned only at the end of the semester for an entire course, not for a specific written assignment within a semester.

students must resolve an incomplete on their transcript by the deadlines listed below. There will be No exceptions. These deadlines are all Prior to the beginning of the next semester with the exception of the spring final deadline. students are responsible to make certain that course obligations have been completed.

fall semester incompletes must be completed a full week before the start of spring classes.• spring semester incompletes must be completed by June 30.• summer semester incompletes must be completed by the Tuesday before labor Day.•

Neither a faculty member nor a student can negotiate an extension of the incomplete deadline beyond the above dates. Un-der extenuating circumstances, this can be done through an ePc with an assistant Dean.

failure to resolve incompletes by the deadlines will result in students’ need to substitute an additional course at their own expense. When the incomplete is in a required course, the student must take the same course or a course that fulfills the requirement.

students with an incomplete at the end of the spring semester or first summer session will require the approval of an advisor to attend the next session with an outstanding incomplete.

students must remain in clear communication with faculty. students should view their grades on aarc periodically. if an unexpected incomplete is received on their transcript, students should be in touch with the faculty im-mediately to determine the reason.

only the student is accountable for timely completion of incompletes.

an incomplete can be resolved in the following ways:

finish the coursework by the appropriate deadline •convert the incomplete to a Withdrawal in writing by the appropriate deadline. in this case, the student will be •

held responsible for the added expense of taking another course.

a student who does not complete requirements by the deadline or make a request for withdrawal in writing will have to take an additional course.

if a student receives a second incomplete and, again, does not resolve this incomplete by the deadline, the student will re-ceive an automatic “f” and the grading policy consequences will apply.

extension

students are expected to complete course work assignments on time; instructors should clearly articulate policies regarding extensions on the course syllabus. an extension must be requested by a student prior to the due date of the assignment and a revised date for submission of work must be approved by the instructor. late submission of written work without an approved extension may result in a lower grade.

No extensions can be granted for final assignments except in the case of an instructor approved full course incomplete (see incomplete Policy).

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Grade Grievance Policy and Procedure

a student with a grievance regarding a grade must first discuss the grievance with the instructor. This discussion must occur within one week of the grade posting. if issues are not resolved, the student may discuss the matter with either the MsW Pro-gram Director or the assistant Dean for student affairs. such a discussion must occur soon after the student/faculty discussion. The assistant dean should consult with the instructor, but the final decision regarding a grade rests with the instructor.

academic Probation

a student who earns two grades of B- , c, or D in courses or 1 MP in field will be placed on academic probation and will be required to have an ePc with the assistant dean.

DISMISSAL FOR ACADEMIC AND MISCONDUCT REASONS

a student who earns a grade of “f” in one class or in field placement will be dismissed from the program. a student who cumulatively earns three grades of B- or below will be dismissed from the program. in the case of field placement perfor-mance, a student who earns two marginal passes in field placement may be dismissed from the program or may continue on probationary status. (see grade chart on page 5). a student who is dismissed from the program is informed of the dismissal in a meeting with the assistant Dean and/or in a letter from the assistant Dean. in most cases, prior to receiving a marginal pass grade or failing grade the student will have met with his/her instructor, advisor and participated in an ePc meeting to address poor performance issues through performance improvement plans and additional academic supports.

students may be placed on probation, refused admission, or terminated from the program by the asc for failure to meet generally accepted standards of professional conduct, ethics, personal integrity, and/or emotional stability requisite for pro-fessional practice. additionally, inappropriate or disruptive behavior towards clients, colleagues, faculty, staff (at school or in field placement) or students may also constitute grounds for a hearing by the academic standards committee which can lead to a sanction of dismissal.

a student can be dismissed for professional misconduct in the classroom, the school community or field placement. Guide-lines for professional conduct are delineated in the standards for Professional Practice and the NasW code of ethics. ethi-cal or behavioral misconduct charges are heard by the academic standards committee ( asc). ( see ASC page 2) The ASC reviews the charges, makes a finding and determines a sanction. sanctions include but are not limited to: additional course work, mandatory leave, probation or dismissal. A student is informed of the dismissal in a letter from the ASC and the As-sistant Dean. A dismissal can be appealed by following the appeal process on page 4.

Plagiarism charges are heard by the college honor Board and can also lead to sanctions including dismissal.

TRANSFER AND WAIVER POLICIES

Transfer course credits from another MsW program

students entering the ssW may transfer course credits taken in a csWe accredited MsW program at another institution. The student must provide an official transcript from that program and request transfer credits during the admissions process. Transfer credits will not be accepted after the first semester in the program. To be transferred, a grade of “B” or bet-ter must be received in the course. courses for transfer must be at least 3 credits, and they must be taken on a gradu-ate level. all degree requirements must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. at 5 years or more prior academic coursework must be repeated.

The school social Work does not accept transfer credits for any courses taken previously in a program that is not an MsW csWe accredited program. Neither certificate programs nor continuing education programs, even when tak-en in an MsW program, are eligible for transfer. syllabi and other support material are required for the review of trans-fer requests. requests will be reviewed by the Director of the MsW Program, the assistant Dean or his or her designee..


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Transfer of an elective course taken at another institution

1. Matriculated students with special interests may be given permission to take one elective course at another institution or in another simmons graduate program if:

it is a Master’s level course at an accredited, degree-granting institution •the course content shows clear relevance to the social work degree •the course is not offered at ssW •the course earns a minimum of 3 credits and meets for at least the equivelent classroom contact hours as ssW •

students must notify their advisor of such a proposal prior to the registration period. The advisor must review and approve the plan prior to its submission in writing to the assistant Dean.

2. if permission is granted, the student is responsible for the transfer of credit to simmons at the end of the semester. Non-re-ceipt of a transcript and the executed Transfer of credit form by the proper deadline in the final year could affect the student’s graduating on time. students must receive a grade of “B” or better to transfer credit. The form can be obtained from the ssW registration coordinator, in the appendix of this handbook, or under forMs on the ssW website.

3. Matriculated students may not take any required courses outside of the school of social Work.

Transfer students applying to simmons from other MsW programs

Transfer students are those who apply to leave their current MsW program and matriculate as an MsW student at simmons. When a student requests to transfer credits:

a maximum of 33 credits may be transferred •the student must provide an official transcript and a letter of good standing from the Dean or •

assistant Dean of the MsW programcourses in which the student receives a “B-” or lower will not be transferred •all coursework including transfer credits must be completed within 5 years •

Waivers for students who receive advanced standing in the MsW program

advanced standing students take advanced year courses and 29 credits are waived for the following foundation courses:

social Work Practice sW 421a & B fall and spring, 6 total credit hours •social Policy sW 401a & B fall and spring, 6 total credit hours •human Behavior and the social environment sW 411a & B fall and spring, 6 total credit hours •Racism SW 409, 3 credits •Research SW 441, 3 credits •field education sW 446, 5 credits fall only •

Waiver of requirement (research or assessment and Diagnosis)

on occasion, a student may petition the director of the MsW Program to waive a requirement in research sW 441, or as-sessment and Diagnosis sW 414, due to a graduate level course(s) taken in these areas in a non social work program. The course(s) must have been taken within 5 years of admission and be closely equivalent to research sW 441 and assessment and Diagnosis sW 414. The course syllabi and or any other documents requested by the director of the MsW Program must be presented for review. If the course requirement is waived, then the student must take another course of their choice in place of the waived requirement. These requirement waivers will only be considered at admissions or up to the end of the first semester of a student’s matriculation into the program.

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WAITLIST POLICy

students must use the aarc automatic waitlist system when wishing to be in line for a closed/full class. Professors cannot override the system and add students to their classes. The student should not contact the professor and ask to be put into the class.

Waitlisted students should monitor their simmons email for further information and for notification they may enroll in an open seat. students only have 72 hours from when notified via simmons email to make the change and register for the open seat or they will be automatically removed from the waitlist and the seat will be offered to the next student on the waitlist.

INDEPENDENT STUDIES

Due to limited faculty resources, independent study for course credit is not available to Master’s students.

ADD/DROP AND CLASS WITHDRAWALS

add/Drop

When dropping a course, students must be aware of the consequences on course sequencing and graduation requirements. students should consult the academic services center ([email protected]) or their advisor.

Prior to the start of classes and until the end of aarc on-line registration students may add or drop classes. students can view the end date on aarc under the student menu and then “my registration start and end time” each semester.

1. adding an elective is only permitted with instructor approval after the first class session and is not permitted after the second session.

2. it is the students responsibility to inform both instructors of the change and to account for any missed coursework.

changing sections of two-semester 1st year classes

students are required to remain in the same section of the two-semester or year-long classes for which they registered (401, 411, and 421). students must register for each of these classes each semester (fall and spring).

Drop/ Withdrawal after the second class

a student may withdraw from a course up to the last day of the class. if a student needs to withdraw from any course after the two week add/Drop period, the advisor must be notified and the student must sign an add/Drop form and notify the professor. The form can be obtained on the ssW website under the MsW Program, under the forms tab or from the registration coordi-nator and it should be returned to the registrar’s office in the Main college Building, c 210.

a withdrawal “W” will remain on the student transcript. The web address for tuition refunds is noted under “Tuition refund schedule.” any financial questions should be addressed with student financial services for exact semester by semester and student information. since withdrawal from a course alters the student’s schedule, the student must consult with their advisor about scheduling of field placements and classes and understand the consequences it may have on his or her graduation date. The student will need to pay to retake the course.


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Drop/ Withdrawal from field Placement after the add/drop period

To withdraw from field Placement after the add/drop period, the student must receive approval from her/his advisor and the Director or field education. students who perform poorly and/or are not making sufficient progress and withdraw after the add/drop period may be given a grade that reflects their performance at the time of their withdrawal.

eDUcaTioNal PlaNNiNG coMMiTTee (ePc)

When a student is having difficulty, academically and/or in field placement, an educational Planning Meeting is convened to help explore the nature of the difficulties and determine an educational plan for the individual student that will address the difficulties and suggest remedies in the context of the school’s standards and expectations. The goal of an ePc is to make rec-ommendations to address identified issues and work with the student to develop an educational plan.

The ePc is an “ad hoc” group made up of those who are knowledgeable about the student’s performance in classes or field placement. This will include some or all of the following, depending on the nature of the issues to be discussed: a student’s faculty (past or present), field supervisor, and advisor. an ePc can be called by a student, advisor, faculty member, or supervisor under the following circumstances:

1. When the student, classroom or field faculty, or supervisor have been unable to resolve an issue through the field education department and/or when issues merit the participation of the assistant Dean—such as students with disabilities, health issues, persistent academic difficulties, repeated absences.

2. When a student receives a Marginal Pass (MP), B-, or c putting her/his future in the program at risk.

3. When there are problems, other than those mentioned above, in the field or classroom that need to be addressed by a small group of people working with the student.

Procedures for an ePc

1. When a faculty person or supervisor identifies a concern, the student should be informed as soon as possible in a meet-ing and/or in writing from the appropriate person. When the student identifies the concerns/he may initiate the ePc process through his or her advisor or the assistant Dean.

2. Prior to an ePc meeting the student and relevant faculty should be notified by the student’s advisor as to the purpose of the meeting along with a request for their input.

3. To schedule an ePc meeting with the assistant Dean, the advisor should inform kathy rice ([email protected]) of the following:

• Dates and times when the advisor and the student are available to meet• The urgency of the meeting (i.e. within one week, two weeks, etc.)• The names of any faculty whose attendance at the meeting is essential or of high importance• The names of any additional faculty who should be invited once the date and time have been

determined

4. When the ePc has been scheduled, kathy rice will confirm the date, time, and place with the advisor and faculty. The advi-sor should then notify the student.

5. if a faculty member is unable to be in attendance, he/she should reply in writing or by phone to the advisor regarding the student’s status in their courses. The ePc can proceed with the minimal membership described above once all the notified parties have responded. The advisor should make every effort to obtain current information about the student’s performance in all sequences.

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6. in most instances, the ePc will review the issues at the beginning of the meeting without the student present and then the student will join the meeting where their participation and input will be critical to the determination of outcomes and recom-mendations for the ePc.

7. following an ePc, the field advisor will write a memo summarizing the outcome. This memo will be sent to the field De-partment administrative assistant, [email protected]. The ePc is reviewed by the Director and/or associate Director of the field Department and the assistant Dean and revised as needed or approved. The final copy will be sent to the aforementioned, one copy will be placed in the student’s mailbox, and a copy will be placed in the student’s folder to keep record of the meetings throughout the student’s tenure at the school. a record of the ePc will also be filed electronically.

MiD-seMesTer acaDeMic reVieW

faculty who have concerns about a student’s academic or field performance, attendance or professional behavior, will first directly discuss these concerns with the student and may notify the student’s advisor. if the concern or difficulty persists, the student’s advisor must be informed.

at the November and March meetings of the ssW faculty, the assistant dean will carry out a mid semester academic review and ask faculty to identify any student who is experiencing field or academic difficulties. if a faculty member intends to in-clude a student’s name in the mid semester academic review, the faculty member must inform the student and the student’s advisor. ordinarily this will occur prior to the faculty meeting.

a student’s academic difficulties are not discussed at the faculty meeting, but rather the concern is “flagged” for further exploration. The advisor will be in contact with the student and generally, an educational Planning committee meeting, con-vened by the student’s advisor, will follow.

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS

submission of papers

students should follow instructor guidelines for paper submission.

rewriting of graded papers

students may, at the instructor’s discretion, be given the option of re-writing a paper that has received a grade of “B-” or “c” or below. however, final course assignments may not be rewritten.

CHANGE OF PROGRAM STATUS/PROGRAM COMPLETION

all degree requirements must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. at 5 years or more prior academic coursework must be repeated.

if a student chooses to change status from the full-time to the extended program, the student’s advisor must be consulted. The student should set up a meeting with the coordinator of the extended Program or his or her advisor to create an alterna-tive plan for program completion.

DEGREE COMPLETION POLICy

students enroll in the full time program or in the extended program. The full time program is completed in 2 years. The extended program is completed in 2.5, 3, or 4 years. (see sample schedules in academic Guidelines for degree completion information.)


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LEAVES AND WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM

Withdrawal from the Program

students who do not enroll for consecutive semesters (excluding summer) and do not formally apply for a leave of absence, will be automatically withdrawn. students should only choose to withdraw when they are confident that they will not be returning to the school of social Work (transferring to another school, or deciding not to pursue a social work degree). if a student intends to return to the ssW, a leave of absence should be requested. Withdrawal from the program would require the student to formally reapply to the program if the student decided to return at a later date.

students who decide to withdraw from ssW must:

1. Notify and meet with their advisor.2. submit a letter to the assistant Dean and cc: the registration coordinator notifying the school of intent to withdraw. 3. recipients of financial aid should also notify the office of student financial aid.

Leaves of Absence

also see change in Program status/Degree completion Policy in the policy section.

To be considered for a leave of absence, students must follow the below policies. students who fail to follow the policies will be withdrawn from the program and need to reapply.

Voluntary leave of absence

students in good standing can take a leave of absence of up to two years from the ssW program without needing to reapply. students who require a leave of absence must meet with their advisor, then make a formal request for a leave of absence in writing to the assistant Dean and fill out the leave of absence request form and return it to the registration coordinator. if and when the student decides to return, written notice must be provided to the assistant Dean at least three months prior to the return. an ePc may be required to discuss plans for completion of the program. should a leave of absence extend beyond two years, the student will need to formally reapply to the program.

conditional leave of absence

if a student wishes to take a voluntary leave where there are issues in field or academic performance, professional conduct or other area of concern, an educational Planning committee meeting must be held before the student’s departure. at this time the committee will identify what needs to be addressed before the student is allowed to return. The student will receive a letter stating that this is a conditional leave of absence. The student should complete a leave of absence form (see pages xx-xx) and return it to the registration coordinator. To return from a conditional leave, the student must write a letter requesting return to the assistant Dean and cc: the registration coordinator three months prior to their requested return date, then meet with the assistant Dean and field education Director or the academic standards committee to request permission to return from the conditional leave.

Medical Leave of Absence

students who are in good standing can request a medical leave of absence. a student must meet with the assistant Dean and complete the leave of absence form. in addition, medical documentation must be provided prior to approval for the leave and prior to return. return from medical leave requires a written approval from the student’s medical provider and may require clearance/approval from the appropriate simmons college medical personnel certifying the student’s ability to return to full-time or extended program status at the ssW. factors to be taken into consideration for return from a medical leave include: certification that the medical condition that necessitated the leave is no longer present or is under treatment that would permit return to the rigors of graduate clinical social work education (field and classes). students returning from men-

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tal health hospitalizations should consult the simmons college Policy for students hospitalized for Mental health reasons for additional guidelines.

Mandatory leave of absence for Medical, Psychiatric and/or Performance reasons

When a student has a medical, psychiatric or performance issue(s) that seriously affects performance in class and/or field, attendance and the student’s capacity to sufficiently progresses toward degree completion, or the ability to safely and inde-pendently function in a clinical setting and perform professional duties, an educational Planning committee will be convened to determine the student’s ability to remain in the program. The assistant Dean, in consultation with faculty and/or field supervisor(s), may require a mandatory leave of absence. a final communication in writing will come from the assistant Dean within 7 days after the meeting. The student should complete the leave of absence form and return it to the registration co-ordinator.

The assistant Dean, in consultation with the faculty and field supervisor, will determine the conditions of the leave and the re-entry process. The Dean will be informed of students who are placed on mandatory leaves.

re-entry after mandatory leave

for re-entry after a mandatory leave of absence the student on leave must:

1. Present evidence that the conditions of the mandatory leave have been met.2. send all reports or documents requested in the leave of absence letter addressing the suitability of return to ac-

ademic and clinical work. 3. in some instances, the school may request an independent evaluation by the simmons counseling

center and/or appropriate medical, mental health or educational professional for the purposes for the purpose of clearance to return to classes and placement.

4. Meet with the academic standards committee who will review the request to return and make a decision regarding re-entry, when required.

academic standards committee re-entry review.

The assistant Dean will consult with the committee regarding the need for a full committee review. The asc will be asked to review the submitted materials, interview the student, and make any collateral calls necessary to make the decision regarding re-entry. in such cases where a medical clearance is required the assistant Dean will communicate with the appropriate medi-cal personnel regarding recommendations on readiness to return.

The student will be notified in writing of the committee’s decision within seven days after the meeting.

The academic standards committee may decide to:

re-admit the student to field aND classes •re-admit the student to classes with further evaluation for admission to field •Not re-admit the student. •leave of absence from field (see field Manual for details) •

GRADUATION POLICy

students who have completed all degree requirements must submit a completed Petition to Graduate form by the indicated deadline to the registration coordinator. failure to complete the form or selecting the incorrect graduation date could affect participation in the May graduation ceremony, diploma availability, and the student’s conferral (graduation) date.


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students who plan to graduate in May, august, october, or January must complete coursework by the official grade deadline provided by the registrar’s office.

a student who will complete all coursework by august, may walk in the May ssW commencement ceremony if he/she is in good standing (no more than one “MP” or “B-” or lower) and meets the following conditions:

1) The student has no more than 2 courses left of the course requirements and these courses will be completed and graded no later than the august graduation grade submission deadline.2) The student will finish the field placement by the end of the second week in august.or 3) The student is an advanced standing student and is registered to complete course work and field

placement by the end of the second week in august. (No more than 2 courses and field education for a total of 10 credits)

august Graduation

all grades for august graduates must be posted no later than the end of the 2nd week in august in order to be eligible for august conferral. The actual degree conferral date is the third friday in august. Upon satisfactory completion of all degree requirements as noted above, those who participate in May commencement will have their degree conferred in august, and their diplomas in september.

ATTENDANCE

The administration and faculty of this program require that students attend all classes and meet the requirements and obliga-tions of their courses. Participation in class discussions is as central to learning as completing assignments. class absences and/or lateness will be factored into the evaluation of a student’s performance and final grade. if an emergency requires a student to miss a class, the student is responsible for notifying the professor ahead of time or as soon as possible and making arrange-ments to catch up. See Field Manual for Field education attendance process.

religious observance/student absence

students who are unable, because of their religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in an examination, class, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from the class, study, or work requirement and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up the examination, study, or work they may have missed consistent with Massachusetts General law chapter 151c, section 2b. That law states:

“any student in an educational or vocational training institution, other than a religious or a denominational education or voca-tional training institution, who is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examina-tion, study, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement, and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work missed because of such absence on any particular day; provided, however, that such make-up examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said student such opportunity. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to any student because of his/her availing himself of the provisions of the sections.”

a student should inform the instructor prior to missing a class, if the student expects to miss class as a consequence of his/her religious observances.

Questions about absences for religious observances should be directed to the assistant Dean or the office of student life.

students in field Placement should consult the field Manual for procedures and policies governing the request of release time for religious holidays.

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CORRESPONDENCE FROM SSW

students must activate and maintain a simmons college email account. all school related correspondence will take place only through the simmons email. simmons email can be forwarded to a personal email address, but it is the student’s responsibil-ity to make certain that simmons email is checked regularly year round (including summer).

COURSE EVALUATIONS

each course is evaluated by students at or after the last class meeting. The evaluations can be reviewed by the instructor only after student grades have been submitted. evaluations are reviewed by the instructor, the MsW Program Director, and the Dean.

TUITION REFUND SCHEDULE

Please consult the student financial services representatives or see online at http://my.simmons.edu/services/sfs/accounts/refunds.shtml for the exact dates for all semesters and a description of the financial implications.

ADMISSIONS MSW Program Admission Criteria applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, achieving at least a B (3.0) average; it is desirable that applicants have a balanced liberal arts education on the undergraduate level.

relevant experience through summer employment, volunteer work during/after college, and/or full-time employment in the human services field after college graduation is required.

applicants must show a commitment to social work values and personal qualifications for social work, evidenced in the ap-plicant’s statement of Professional and educational intent, and the applicant’s letters of recommendation.

No standardized test scores are required.

an interview is not required; however under certain circumstances the school may require an interview with the Director of admission after application review.

No course credit is given for life or work experience.

Advanced Standing Program Admission Criteria

Please visit http://simmons.edu/ssw/admission/

Process and Procedure for evaluating applicants

application files are read by full-time faculty members. each applicant’s file is reviewed against the criteria for admissions. Based on the evaluation of application materials, an applicant is accepted or rejected. a faculty person or a member of the admissions staff can request that an application is reviewed by the admissions committee. in those cases the admissions committee makes the final decision. The admissions committee is a standing faculty committee comprised of 4-5 faculty members and the assistant Dean. each faculty member serves a 2 year term.


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OTHER ADMISSIONS REqUIREMENTS

statisticsThe school requires that students have received a minimum grade of “B” in an introductory statistics course within five years prior to entering the master’s program.

final Transcriptsaccepted applicants who are in the process of completing a degree program must send a transcript with final grades in order for the acceptance to be finalized.

other requirementsaccepted applicants with a GPa below the required GPa are required to meet with the assistant dean before registering for classes.

Mandatory health insuranceeffective september 1, 1989, all full-time and three-fourths time students enrolled in a Massachusetts institution of higher education are required to be covered by health insurance for the 12 months following september 1, or from the date of enrollment.

STUDENT PARTICIPATION GOVERNANCE

students participate in the governance of the ssW through the sGa and through membership on ssW committees and boards. Through these vehicles students participate in the formulation and modification of academic and student affairs.

committees and other opportunities for participation in the beginning of the fall semester, students receive memos soliciting their involvement on ssW committees and boards. students representitives convey student concerns at committee and board meetings. students report back to the student body at sGa meetings and in the community newsletter. students are members of:

curriculum committee• assessment committee (pending)• Governance committee (pending)• academic standards committee• College Honor Board• student field advisory committee • exit survey committee• alumni Board•

student Government associationat the end of spring semester students volunteer to participate on the student government for the following year. The student government meets regularly in open meetings to plan student activities and to address student concerns. The sGa facilitates the selection of student representatives on committees and board. student government members meet with the assistant Dean during the summer to plan activities and initiatives for the next year. representatives of the group meet regularly with the assistant Dean throughout the year to address concerns and plan activities. The Dean holds open meetings with students periodically to hear feedback about student concerns. student concerns can be addressed through the sGa or directly with the appropriate ssW administrator or committee.

Through the sGa, students are encouraged to organize co-curricular activities such as colloquia, support groups and social ac-

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tivities. students help to organize the orientation as well as the fall Welcome party, and spring Graduation event.

student organizations students can initiate the formation of a new organization at anytime in consultation with the sGa and the assistant Dean for student affairs current organizations include:

National association of Black social Workers—Boston student chapter • alaNa student group. •

OTHER SIMMONS COLLEGE POLICIES

*in some instances the school of social Work and the college may have different policies, an example is, the leave of absence Policy. in the instance where the policies differ, usually the school of social Work policy takes precedence.

information on the family educational rights and Privacy act (ferPa) can be found at http://www.simmons.edu/handbook/conduct/policies-procedures.php

Please visit http://my.simmons.edu/life/handbook/conduct/index.shtml for college Policies on the following topics.

honor system • Prohibited conduct • Judicial system • college Policies & Procedures • residence hall Policies and Procedures • Policies about your use of Technology • Notice of Non-Discrimination and Grievance Procedures • students with Disabilities • hazing Policy • sexual assault • sexual harassment • student rights & responsibilities statement • Policy on Valuing Diversity • crime statistics •


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appendix i

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SIMMONS SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK STANDARDS FOR PROFESSIONAL

PRACTICE EDUCATION

introduction

students are expected to have knowledge of and to adhere to the NasW code of ethics which outlines the behavior and responsibilities expected of professional social workers. Under the NasW code of ethics, students studying for their MsW degree are considered to be social work professionals and are subject to the NasW code of ethics.

simmons students are also expected to adhere to the simmons honor code which can be found at http://my.simmons.edu/life/handbook/schools/graduate/honorcode.shtml and to uphold the ssW standards for Professional Practice education which are set forth below.

every ssW student is obligated to be familiar with and abide by these internal and external standards which govern our school and our profession. ignorance of these professional standards is not an excuse for non-compliance.

self awareness, self assessment and self monitoring

You are expected to make a commitment to learning about self-awareness and to using self-reflection consistently and genuinely. accepting supervision and incorporating feedback are critical to this process. as you progress through the ssW program, you are expected to accurately assess your own strengths and limitations and to display a willingness to examine and change behaviors that interfere with your work at a field placement or in the classroom. included in this is a willingness to diligently examine and address your own biases.

openness and willingness to learn, flexibility and adaptability

as an ssW student, you are expected to demonstrate openness to, and active engagement in, learning new ideas and perspectives. You should actively seek to understand the worldview and values of others. as required by the demands of professional practice, you should be flexible and adaptable in new situations and as circumstances change.

interpersonal skills

You are expected to demonstrate the interpersonal skills and capacities needed to relate to clients, agency colleagues, fel-low students, faculty, and staff. The capacity and skills to actively engage with others across difference and in situations of conflict, should improve and deepen as you progress through the ssW program.

communication skills

in all oral, written and electronic communication you are expected to be respectful of others. in electronic communication you should adhere to professional boundaries. in the classroom, you are expected to take responsibility for your role in dis-cussions. You should strive to use active listening skills and to express ideas clearly. You are expected to self-monitor and not dominate a discussion. increasingly, as you progress through the program, you should be able to communicate effectively in writing, both in classroom assignments and in your field placement. as an ssW student, it is your responsibility to utilize resources to improve academic and field performance when problems in communication have been identified and brought to your attention for remediation.


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critical thinking skills

as you progress through the ssW program, you are expected to be able to frame and address problems in a disciplined way and engage at greater levels of independence in problem solving efforts. increasingly, your problem-solving efforts should be well reasoned, examine multiple perspectives and worldviews, integrate evidence and knowledge, and lead to well-support-ed decisions and conclusions.

Presentation of self

Upon entry to the program, you are expected to commit to learning what is required for professional behavior. Professional behavior includes the ability to evaluate and respond to the demands and expectations of classroom and field placement en-vironments, and the larger college community. Professional behavior also includes being punctual, dependable, and account-able and being able to prioritize responsibilities. appearance, dress, and general demeanor can reflect professional behavior.

Self care

You are expected to recognize your own current life stressors and to seek ways to mitigate the effect of these stres-sors and field performance. in accordance with the NasW code of ethics (sec 4.05), social work students should not al-low their own personal problems or issues to interfere with their judgment and performance or to jeopardize the best interests of people for whom they have professional responsibility. social work students whose personal prob-lems, psychosocial distress, legal problems, substance abuse, or mental health difficulties interfere with their judg-ment and responsibilities should immediately seek consultation with a faculty advisor, faculty member, or supervi-sor who will determine and assist in the necessary steps and actions related to field placement and course work.

Acknowledgements:School of Social Work University of Texas, AustinHunter College School of Social Work

application of standards:

1. The standards help to create a professional practice culture in the school. 2. The standards will be used to provide a framework for discussions when giving feedback to a student or group of students who are displaying problematic behavior. intended as educational, these conversations occur in the context of a meeting between a student or students and a classroom instructor, advisor, supervisor or other ssW community member.3. The standards will be used to initiate and ePc process and to inform decisions and plans emanating from an eP meeting.4. at the discretion of the assistant Dean, a student whose behavior constitutes an ethical violation or a serious and persistent infraction of the standards will be referred to the academic standards committee of the ssW. The findings of this committee may lead to one of the following actions: refusal of admissions, probation, dismissal, or other disciplinary actions.5. in some instances, such as cases of plagiarism, a case will be reviewed by the college honor Board.

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academic Guidelines2012/2013 edition


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ADVISING

advising is an important component of a student’s overall education at ssW that is communicated and delivered to students in multiple ways. The functions of advising include academic advising, field education advising, facilitation of the integration of field and classroom learning, career planning, and assistance in developing an identity as a professional social worker.Advisement services are:

Academic Services Center

all students may access academic advising through the academic services center for answers to questions about MsW pro-gram requirements, registration, course sequencing, course selection, specializations, dropping/adding a class, and to learn about college resources and support services such as financial aid, career services and disability services. students can access academic advising via [email protected] or in-person with the asc faculty or staff by appointment or during drop-in times.

extended Program advising

students who are not in field placements are assigned an advisor who is available to discuss educational interests, academic performance concerns, special needs, plans for field placement and career plans. advising meetings also provide the oppor-tunity to have discussions that mentor the student’s professional development and help students integrate what they are learning in classes with prior experiences. The advisor collaborates with the student and classroom instructor when there are concerns about a student’s classroom performance.

Field Advising

each year students in field placements are assigned a field advisor who serves as both a liaison between the student and the field placement agency and as the student’s field advisor. The advisor collaborates with field agency instructors inevaluating student progress and learning and when necessary serves as a mediator in problem situations. The advisor is also in-volved when the student experiences problems in the classroom and consults with the classroom faculty, student, and admin-istrators, as needed. Throughout the academic year students should meet with their advisor to discuss academic performance concerns, educational interests, special needs and career plans.full-time and adjunct faculty who are assigned to the field education Department provide field and extended program advis-ing. advisors are all MsWs, have clinical practice experience and are knowledgeable about the ssW curriculum and policies.

all students are assigned a different advisor each year. advisor assignments for students in field placements are made by the field education Director in august. extended program advisors are assigned by the extended Program coordinator. student/advisor assignments are posted on the forth floor bulletin board.

for both full and extended students, the advisor meets the student early in the year in order to get acquainted with the stu-dent’s background experiences, learning style and learning needs, as well as to explain the advisor role and the ways the stu-dent can access advising resources. The advisor arranges individual and/or group meetings throughout the year in response to student needs and interests. students should initiate a meeting with their advisor around any questions or concerns and prior to each field visit or field review.

The advising relationship is a two-way street. students are expected to initiate contact with their advisor when they need as-sistance and to respond to outreach from their advisor in a timely fashion. students should let their advisor know immediately if problems arise. sharing as much as one can about her/his circumstances will enable the advisor to be more helpful.

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oPTioNs for coMPleTiNG The M.s.W. DeGree

The full-Time Programstudents in the full-time M.s.W. Program typically require two years to complete their degree. They are assigned a field place-ment for three days a week for both years of the Program and take classes two days per week.internships are three days (24 hours) per week from september to May for both years of the M.s.W. Program. students take a total of four courses concurrently the other two days. summer class options and evening classes allow some flexibility.

The extended-study Program

The extended-study Program offers students the option to expand a two-year program into two-and-a half, three or four years. The first year of the Program could be called part-time, as students devote two days a week to classes and study. sim-mons offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals; however, not all Program requirements can be met in the evening. in the subsequent years, students must plan four or five days per week for classes and field placements. Most students complete the Program in three years. internships, taken during the second and third years of the Program, are three days (24 hours) per week from september to May. some students stretch the Program to four years, interning their third and fourth years. students can choose to do placements 16 hours per week for 11 months.

extended January Matriculation

January Matriculation program offers students the opportunity to commence studies in spring semester and complete the program in 2.5 years. students in the January matriculation program do two field placements.

Working and the extended Program

We understand the multitude of reasons that students work while completing the MsW program. however, we do not rec-ommend working full-time when completing the two required field placements.

for many students it is possible to continue full-time work during Year i, but students should explore all options available to work less than full-time when completing the field placement and taking concurrent courses. for many students, the amount of time spent attending classes and reading and writing outside of class is significantly higher than was necessary in their un-dergraduate program. This level of responsibility is substantial. You may need to make accommodations in your non-ssW life during your enrollment in the MsW program in order to maintain good academic standing. since this may mean a decrease in income, it is recommended that you start early in the program to make plans. Be sure to consult with the office of financial aid about all options available to you.

The Advanced Standing Program

The simmons school of social Work offers a 12-month advanced-standing Program to qualified applicants with a bachelor’s degree in social Work (B.s.W.) who have graduated within the last five years from a program accredited by the council on social Work education (csWe). The Program includes one three-days-per-week (24-hour) field placement from september to august, concurrent with a total of eight advanced-level courses.students accepted into the advanced-standing Program receive credits for all foundation year courses and one semester of field experience. advanced-standing students will have one extended field placement. internships are three days (24 hours) per week, over three semesters, from september to early august. Most students complete the Program within one year.


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M.s.W./Urban leadership Program

Leadership and community action in clinical social work clinical social workers recognize that the problems an individual suffers frequently reflect larger issues in his or her community. in order to help the individual, it may be necessary to effect change at a societal level. With this focus, students in our Urban leadership certificate Program (UlP) develop the skills and confidence to work as leaders, advocates, and activists in the communities they serve.

UlP students earn a master’s degree in social work, plus a certificate in urban leadership in clinical social work. several components distinguish the UlP from the regular M.s.W. Program. UlP students take leadership in action for social Work Practice and leadership skills for social Work concurrently with their field internships, allowing them to connect leadership theory with practice — to identify, implement, and practice leadership skills. They also complete a yearlong agency-based project that examines a barrier to service. students have the opportunity to analyze the root causes of the problem, exam-ine the personal, cultural, and institutional factors that contribute to the problem, and develop an action plan that identifies both short- and long-term interventions. finally, UlP students take four “mini” courses: oral presentation skills for social workers, grant writing, community politics, and one elective. full-time students can complete the Program in two academic years. The M.s.W./Urban leadership certificate Program also can be completed in two and a half, three to four years for students in the extended program or January matriculation program.

One-year Placement

The one-year placement option is designed as a part of the three-year extended-study Program. students who meet the guidelines and are accepted to the rogram take two additional classes and complete one extended field placement during their third year. This is a highly selective program. students apply to this program during the first year of enrollment. stu-dents complete 66 credits for the MsW degree, similar to students completing two field placements.

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Revised 4/5/2012


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Revised 4/5/12

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Revised 5/25/12


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Revised 4/5/2012

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Revised 5/25/2012 1:12:36 PM


30Revised May 25, 2012

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Revised 6/13/2012


32Revised May 25, 2012

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students in the fall semester of their first field placement can choose one of four specializations and request to specialize or not. students are not required to specialize.

AREAS OF SPECIALIzATION

child and family •Health and Aging •Mental health and substance abuse •Trauma and interpersonal Violence •

a formal presentation for first year field students will take place during the fall semester and the request form and other important information will be available at that time.

To specialize, students will need to complete three electives from the specialization in total and at least two MUsT be from the required list. students will also need to complete an advanced year field placement in an area related to the specialization.

having a specialization will mean that students will have less flexibility in their schedule, as they will need to register for specific classes that are only scheduled on certain days or evenings. students should take this into consideration as they make their decision.

students are encouraged to speak with their field advisor or the academic services center advisors ([email protected]) regarding any questions they have about selecting a specialization.

CHOOSING A SPECIALIzATION What is a specialization?each specialization has a list of required courses from which you must choose your advanced year electives. Your choice of specialization will also guide the selection of your advanced year (Year ii) placement. specializations will help you to learn one area of social work practice in more depth. however, selecting a specialization will limit flexibility in your schedule.

Must I choose a specialization?No, specializations are optional; it is not required. students who decide not to specialize will choose advanced year electives from the full list of elective offerings and will be eligible for placements that fit their learning needs. Generally speaking, students will have equal access to all placements for which they are qualified.

How will choosing a specialization impact my advanced year field placement?Your choice of specialization will help guide you, your advisor, and the placement team in your selection of placement possibilities. The placement team will work with you to help identify placements that will provide opportunities to advance your knowledge and skills related to your specialization. Many types of placements will offer opportunities to work within a specialization. in considering placement options, students will be encouraged to think broadly.

If I choose a specialization, am I guaranteed a specific type of placement?There are many types of placements that will meet the learning needs for each specialization. Your specialization choice does not dictate a specific placement. for example, while some students in the health and aging specialization may be in a hospital, other examples of placements might include hospice, health centers, aiDs programs, nursing homes and schools working with children with health issues.

Please see the descriptions on the following pages.

SPECIALIzATION INFORMATION AND DESCRIPTIONS


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Simmons College School of Social Work Advanced year clinical specialization child and family

Child and family social work practitioners endeavor to improve child and family well-being by seeking out protective factors that exist within indi-viduals and in the social contexts (e.g., family, school, work, neighborhoods and communities) where children and families live. Through this process child and family practitioners work with people in their communities to draw on these protective factors as a means to build capacity. As a result children and their families learn how to succeed through the adversities of living in social environments challenged by stress, poverty, disorganiza-tion and/or oppression.

Social work practitioners who specialize in the area of child and family at Simmons School of Social Work demonstrate mastery in content relative to child and family development, attachment and neurobiology, as well as systems theory and community development. Child and family practitioners also draw on human rights and social justice theories as well as theories of racism and oppression to manage the many dilemmas faced in practice settings.

Child and family social workers are often employed in schools, child protection settings, hospitals, courts and community based mental health centers, which include but are not limited to residential services, outreach, health and education services, adolescent and family court services and home-based therapy. They show adeptness in engaging children and families and navigating systems and policies, are able to evaluate and critique research and data relevant to children and families, describe pathways to best practices and demonstrate influencing skills to create change. For example, a child and family practitioner can see what is, assess what ought to be (based on an integration of one’s knowledge of best practices, which comes from the Simmons programming relative to child and family) and then determine what has to strategically happen to move in the direction of ought to be, (i.e., this is what is meant by “influencing skills”, which can mean and cover a lot of different things such as dialogue, action or research, etc.).

Emerging practitioners specializing in child and family issues are required to complete at least TWO courses from the required list below and create a web-based portfolio demonstrating child and family specific competencies they have gained as part of the requirements of the degree. Requests to substitute ONE required course with a recommended course will be considered on a case by case basis.

Students must complete three electives in total and at least two MUST be from the Required list.Required 425 Family Approaches in Social Work438 or 571 Alcohol, Drugs and SW Practice 451 Urban Leadership (counts as a Social Action elective)538 Radical Social Action539 Social Work in Schools 548 Child & Family Policy554 Health Care Policy and Social Action557 Clinical Social Work with Immigrants and Refugees561 Social Work Practice with Children in Schools and Therapeutic Settings 566 Play Therapy: Theory and Techniques587 Assessment and Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders588 A Case-based Approach to Learning Treatment of Trauma with Child and Adolescents595 Child and Adolescent Assessment and Diagnosis

Recommended 462 Advanced Group Work with Vulnerable Populations475 Narrative Approaches478 Social Work Practice with Healthcare482 Domestic Violence and Family Welfare483 Cognitive Behavioral Approaches and Treatment494 Multiple Faces of Trauma528 Child and Adolescent Trauma578 Practice with Severe Mental Illness 589 DBT in Clinical Social Work Practice

Faculty: Dawn Belkin-Martinez, Emmeline Homonoff, Kathleen Millstein, Beverly Sealey and Tien Ung, CoordinatorSome courses will be offered on a rotating basis and not every year. Check registration materials for semester course schedules.

35


Simmons College School of Social Work Advanced year clinical specialization health and aging

Students in this specialization may concentrate in health or aging or can combine both areas for a dual focus on health and aging. Students will be prepared for careers as clinicians, case managers, program directors, and administrators providing social work services in a range of health care settings including: neighborhood health centers, community and rehabilitation hospitals, large urban medical centers, AIDS service organizations, and hospice programs.

HEALTHStudents focusing on Health will develop skills and expertise in clinical work with individuals and families in health care settings, skills in larger systems interventions and an understanding of the social work role in interdisciplinary collaboration. Course content for this specialization reflects a diverse area of health concerns including, end of life care, disabilities and chronic and co-morbid conditions, spirituality, ethical and legal dilemmas. Biopsychosocial dimensions of health, illness and care will be framed in the context of current and emerging health care systems. At least a basic un-derstanding of disciplines including psychiatry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and adjunctive disciplines is expected of all students. Course content will range from pediatric to geriatric health issues with opportunities for students to develop expertise in specific areas. Students will also have access to a diverse array of field placements providing a wide range of opportunities to learn their role and how to work as a social worker in broad ranging settings from acute care hospitals, medical specialties, and newly emerging care delivery systems within multidisciplinary health arenas.

AGINGThis specialization focuses on the full range of health, illness and mental health services for older adults, caretakers, and their multigenerational family constellations. The specialization will include understanding of aging specific issues and services such as aging in place in home and commu-nity, transitional living related to independent functioning, mental health, substance abuse, faith based organizations, and condition specific initiatives in areas such as such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Students will learn relevant clinical skills for work with individuals and families and will also learn about related social policies at the local, state, national, and international level. Students will also examine the way in which social policies, healthcare systems, and family roles will need to be developed in response to this growing population. Students also have access to a diverse array of field placements providing a wide range of opportunities dealing with the needs and interests of older adults. Students will be prepared to work in clinical practice, case management, and consulting practice.

Students should speak with an advisor about course selection for creating a focus on health or aging.

Students must complete three electives in total and at least two MUST be from the Required list.Required 463 Advocacy and Social Action with Disability and Chronic Illness475 Narrative Approaches478 Social Work Practice in Healthcare487 Legal & Ethical Issues in Clinical Social Work Practice501 Social Work Practice with Older Adults554 Health Care Policy and Social Action583 Advocacy and Social Action in Gerontology

Recommended 425 Family Approaches in Social Work438 Alcohol, Drugs and Social Work Practice462 Advanced Group Work with Vulnerable Populations 471 Spirituality in Clinical Social Work483 Cognitive Behavioral Approaches and Treatment507 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Health Care Management of Older Adults (at Harvard Medical School)557 Clinical Social Work with Immigrants and Refugees571 Clinical Social Work with Addictions 587 Assessment and Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders589 DBT in Clinical Social Work Practice

Faculty: Gary Bailey, Richard Grumbach, Peter Maramaldi, Ellen GoodmanElaine Mittell, and Michelle Putnam, and Nancy Poorvu, CoordinatorSome courSeS will be offered on a rotating baSiS and not every year. check regiStration materialS for SemeSter courSe ScheduleS.


36

Simmons College School of Social Work Advanced year clinical specialization Mental health and substance abuse

This specialization prepares students for careers in mental health and/or addictions. This includes work with clients struggling with severe and persistent mental illness; those with addictions and those with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders who receive care in acute care settings such as inpatient units, detoxification settings and partial or day hospitals. The specialization is also designed for students who wish to work with clients with psychological and social problems of a less severe nature who receive help in mental health clinics and family agencies.

In conjunction with aligned field settings, electives provide students skills in rapid assessment and more thorough evaluation and formulation. They will learn to use several treatment modalities such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and group therapy. They will become skilled at developing treatment relationships and differentially using themselves with a wide range of clients over time or in brief encounters. They will deepen their theoretical understanding of mental illness, neurobiology, addictive behavior and the treatment processes. In addition to the above named clinical skills, those who specialize in mental health and/or addictions will understand the ways that larger systems, institutions and stresses associated with racism, poverty, immigration and oppression are implicated in mental illness and substance abuse. Additional electives consistent with this specialization are trauma, immigration, and spirituality.

Students specializing in mental health and addictions are required to take three courses in clinical methods, theory, larger systems issues (e.g. im-migration) or associated conditions (e.g. trauma). Two from the required list and one from the recommended list. It is also expected that they will se-lect projects in Social Action and Evaluation courses that involve mental health or addictions. The list below provides some but not all of the courses that qualify for this specialization and some of the faculty.

Students must complete three electives in total and at least two MUST be from the Required list.

Required 438 Alcohol, Drugs and Social Work Practice or SW 571 Clinical Social Work with Addictions462 Advanced Groups475 Narrative483 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy578 Practice with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness584 Psychodynamic Approaches to Work with Adults587 Assessment and Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders589 DBT in Clinical Social Work Practice

Recommended 425 Family Approaches in Social Work494 Multiple Faces of Trauma501 Social Work Practice with Older Adults557 Clinical Social Work with Immigrants and Refugees582 Attachment and Neurobiology

Faculty: Ruth Dean, Abbie Frost, Johnnie Hamilton-Mason, Thomas Harrigan, Kathy Jungreis, Hugo Kamya, Dana Leeman, and Jennifer Putney, Coordinator

Some courses will be offered on a rotating basis and not every year. Check registration materials for semester course schedules.

37


Simmons College School of Social Work Advanced year clinical specialization Trauma and interpersonal Violence

This concentration in trauma violence and criminal justice builds on your Foundation Year required courses and Field Placement. We view early attachment disruptions, neglect, trauma, family, community and global violence as a spectrum. Some social workers practice primarily with victims and survivors and their families and communities. Others work in “extreme settings” such as courts, jails or prisons. We believe that to be a competent social worker, we need to be comfortable with both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. Faculty with years of practice and policy experience will prepare you for this challenging and rewarding field of social change. CORE COMPETENCIES:

1. To learn the social ecology of the criminal justice system thereby preparing graduating social work students to be agents of change.

2. To learn how to be an effective “guest” in a “host” environment (i.e., prison, court, police station, district attorney’s office, etc.).

3. To learn the assessment and treatment of involuntary clients informed by strengths-based models that embrace social justice.

4. To be trained equally to work with juvenile and adult clients; males and females; victims and offenders; individuals, families and groups.

Students must complete three electives in total and at least two MUST be from the Required list.

Required 482 Domestic Violence and Family Welfare 487 Legal & Ethical Issues in Clinical Social Work Practice494 Multiple Faces of Trauma 528 Child and Adolescent Trauma 529 Social Work and Forensics 582 Attachment in Neurobiology in Social Work Practice 588 A Case-based Approach to Learning Treatment of Trauma with Child and Adolescents 598 Leadership Development in Anti-violence Work: The Susan Schechter Social Action Seminar

Recommended 425 Family Approaches 438 Alcohol, Drugs and Social Work Practice 462 Advanced Group Work with Vulnerable Populations 475 Narrative Approaches483 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 578 Severe Mental Illness or 536 Severe & Persistent Mental Illness 539 Social Work in Schools or 561 Social Work Practice with Children in Schools and Therapeutic Settings 566 Play Therapy: Theory and Techniques 557 Clinical Social Work with Immigrants and Refugees571 Clinical Social Work with Addictions 587 Assessment and Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders589 DBT in Clinical Social Work Practice

Faculty: Wendy Emory, Mary Gilfus, Michael Melendez, Thom Harrigan, Kristie Thomas, and Lynn Sanford, Coordinator |Some courses will be offered on a rotating basis and not every year. Check registration materials for semester course schedules.


38

MSW/MBA COORDINATED DEGREE

The MsW/MBa is an option available to applicants who are interested in the exciting and rigorous opportunity to earn an MsW degree with a certificate in Urban leadership and an MBa degree.

This program requires admission into both the school of social Work Urban leadership Program and the school of Management. students complete the MsW/MBa degree in three-five years depending on whether they are full-time or extended students and may complete the degrees either consecutively or simultaneously. students may choose to pursue the degrees consecutively on a full-time or extended basis, or they may pursue each degree simultane-ously on an extended basis at each school. currently the combined number of credits for each degree is reduced by 11 credits by double counting four courses (107 credits versus 118). students pursuing this option will develop an individualized program of study in collaboration with each school.

With both degrees graduates will be prepared for careers that draw upon their unique skill sets: management, clini-cal practice or a combination of roles further enhanced by the learning in each program.

for more information about this and other possible coordinated degrees please contact Director of admissions, Carlos Frontado, 617-521-3920.

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The Simmons School of Social Work offers highly qualified MSW and PhD students an Interdisciplinary Program in Social Work and Public Health with the Harvard School of Public Health. For Simmons MSW Students: Students admitted to the Simmons School of Social Work are eligible to apply to the Harvard School of Public Health for the full time, three year—seven semester—interdisciplinary program in social work and public health. The program leads to the clinical MSW degree from the Simmons School of Social Work (SSW), and the MPH degree from Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health/Children Youth and Families. The diagram below illustrates the structure of the program. Please note that strong quantitative skills and the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) are required for application to the HSPH. For additional information after reviewing the program basic requirements please contact: Peter Maramaldi, PhD, MPH, LCSW, Director of the Interdisciplinary Program in Social Work and Public Health at the Simmons School of Social Work [email protected]

Figure 1. Interdisciplinary Program: MSW/MPH

First semester MSW courses and field work

Apply to HSPH Summer Program (GRE Required)

Complete 2 -3 Required MPH courses(Epidemiology & biostatistics are preferred to demonstrate quantitativecapacity needed for MPH)

Second semester MSW courses and Field work

If accepted to HSPH Summer, plan MSW research courses accordingly

Third semester MSW courses and field work

Apply to HSPH One -Year MPH

Final semester MSW courses and field work

MSW degree awarded from Simmons School of Social Work

Fall semester one-year MPH courses

Spring semester one-year MPH courses

MPH degree awarded from Harvard School of Public Health

SSWYEAR 1 MSW

HSPH SUMMERPROGRAM

SSWYEAR 2 MSW

HSPH ONE -YEAR MPH

INTERDISCIPLINARy PROGRAM IN SOCIAL WORK AND PUBLIC HEALTH WITH HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH


40Revised 4/5/2011

STUDENT COURSE CREDIT CHECKLIST for Full-time and Extended Program Students (Advanced Standing and OYO students see separate check list)

Name: _______________________________ Status: FT PT Anticipated Graduation Date: ______________

Required Courses (Check box when complete.)Course # Credits Sem/Yr Spec/Req

Foundation Classes* *Extended Program students complete foundation courses over two years.

Information Literacy 402 NC Human Behavior & the Social Environment (Fall) 411A 3 Human Behavior & the Social Environment (Spring) 411B 3 Social Policy (Fall) 401A 3 Social Policy (Spring) 401B 3 Social Work Practice (Fall) Must be taken concurrently with Field I (446A). 421A 3 Social Work Practice (Spring) Must be taken concurrently with Field I (446B). 421B 3 Field Education Year I Fall 446A 5 Field Education Year I Spring 446B 5 Social Work Research 441 3 Realities of Racism and Oppression in Today’s World (Yr 1 or 2) 409 3 Introduction to Social Work with Groups (Yr 1 or 2) 577 3

Advanced Classes Assessment & Diagnosis (only offered Summer & Fall) 414 3 Field Education Year II Fall 447A 4 Field Education Year II Spring 447B 4 Advanced Clinical Practice (only offered in the Fall)

Must be taken concurrently with Field II (447A)424 3

Evaluation in Social Work Practice (only offered Fall & Spring ) Must be taken concurrently with Field II (447A or B)

509 3

Electives (Consult registration packet for elective prerequisites.) Required Elective: Social Action 3 Required Elective: Clinical Practice

Must be concurrent with Spring Semester Year II Field (447B) 3

Open Elective (Fall, Spring, or Summer) 3 Open Elective (Fall, Spring, or Summer) 3

Total Credits: 66 • It is the student’s responsibility to plan schedule according to requirements. Students who have selected to complete a specialization should consult Specialization Course lists for requirements.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For students who have completed a Specialization:To graduate with a Specialization designation a student must complete all Specialization requirements. List the Specialization courses you have already completed and the courses you will complete by graduation.Please note that specializations are only granted with approval of the Specialization Coordinator. Specialization ______________________________________

Elective title & course number____________________________________ semester taken_________



Approval of Specialization/ Coordinator________________________________ date__________

41


Course Credit Check List

Revised 9/21/2011 2:08:07 PM

The Urban Leadership Program

For graduation, Urban Leadership students are required to take 2 workshops, 16 courses, and have two field placements for a total of 66 credits, and complete four non-credit mini-courses. ULP students must complete SW 451, SW 452, and a year-long Urban Leadership Project. Students who do not plan to take summer classes should discuss their schedule with the program directors.

Foundation Courses

Course Semester/ Year Taken 1. Social Work Practice I (SW 421A)

(Concurrent with Fall Year I Placement) ____________________

2. Social Work Practice II (SW 421B) (Concurrent with Spring Year I Placement) _____________________

3. Human Behavior in the Social Environment I (SW 411A) _____________________ 4. Human Behavior in the Social Environment II (SW 411B) _____________________

5. Social Welfare Policy I (SW 401A) _____________________

6. Social Welfare Policy II (SW 401B) _____________________

7. Dynamics of Racism and Oppression (SW 409) _____________________

(Summer year 1)

8. Social Work Research (SW 441) _____________________

9. Leadership Skills for Social Work Practice (SW 451) (Concurrent with Spring Year I Placement) (Meets the Social Action requirement) _____________________

10. Year I Field Placement: (SW 446A & B) _____________________

11. Information Literacy Program: (SW 402) _____________________


42

Course Credit Check List

Revised 9/21/2011 2:09:46 PM

Concentration Courses

Course Semester /Year Taken 1. Advanced Clinical Practice (SW 424)

(Concurrent with Fall Year II Placement) _____________________

2. Social Work with Groups (SW 577) _____________________ (Fall year 2)

3. Assessment and Diagnosis (SW 414) _____________________

4. Evaluation For Social Work Practice (SW 509) _____________________

(Fall semester of final year)

5. Leadership in Action for Social Work Practice (SW 452) (Concurrent with Spring Year II Placement) _____________________

6. Clinical Elective

(Concurrent with Spring Year II Placement) _____________________

7. Open Elective _____________________

8. Year II Field Placement (SW 447A & B) _____________________ (Note Where)

Mini-Courses Urban Leadership Students are required to complete four mini-courses and one leadership project.

Required: Semester/Year Taken 1. Community Politics (SW 407) _____________________ 2. Oral Presentation Skills for Social Workers (SW 408) _____________________

3. Grant Writing (SW 530) _____________________

4. Open Elective _____________________

You are required to complete four mini-courses, and you must receive a grade of pass in each one in order to qualify for the Urban Leadership Certificate. You may take as many mini-courses as you like. Although there is no additional charge for mini-courses, these courses will appear on your transcript. Mini courses are 0 credits. For students who have completed a Specialization: To graduate with a Specialization designation a student must complete all Specialization requirements. List the Specialization courses you have already completed and the courses you will complete by graduation. Please note that specializations are only granted with approval of the Specialization Coordinator. Specialization ______________________________________ Elective title & course number____________________________________ semester taken_________



Approval of Specialization/ Coordinator________________________________ __ date________________

Urban leadership course credit check list cont.

43


Revised 9/21/2011

ADVANCED STANDING STUDENT COURSE CREDIT CHECK LIST Name: _______________________________________ Anticipated Graduation Date: ___________ Name of Advisor: ______________________________________________________________________ Required Courses (Check box when complete.) Course # Semester/Year

Fall/Spring/Summer Grade

Foundation Year *It is the student’s responsibility to plan schedule according to requirements. Field Workshop 40 WAIVED Human Behavior & the Social Environment (Fall) 411A WAIVED Human Behavior & the Social Environment (Spring) 411B WAIVED Social Policy (Fall) 401A WAIVED Social Policy (Spring) 401B WAIVED Social Work Practice (Fall) Must be taken concurrently with Field I (446). 421A WAIVED Social Work Practice (Spring) Must be taken concurrently with Field I (446). 421B WAIVED Field Education Year I (1 semester) 446 WAIVED Social Work Research 441 WAIVED Realities of Racism and Oppression in Today’s World 409 WAIVED

Advanced Year Information Literacy Program 402 Assessment & Diagnosis (only offered Summer & Fall) 414 Field Education Year II Fall semester 596 Field Education Year II Spring semester 447B Field Education Year II Summer semester 447C Advanced Clinical Practice (only offered in the Fall)

Must be taken concurrently with Field II (596) 424

Evaluation in Social Work Practice (only offered Fall & Spring ) Must be taken concurrently with Field II ( 447)

509

Advanced Standing Seminar (only offered in the Fall) 569 Electives (Consult registration packet for elective prerequisites.)

Required Elective: Social Action Required Elective: Clinical Practice

Must be concurrent with Spring Semester Year II Field (447)

Required Elective: Clinical Practice Must be concurrent with Summer semester Year II Field (447)

Open Elective (Fall, Spring, or Summer) • Faculty advisor is available for academic advising. Please have copy of AARC transcript and this form for meeting with advisor. • Students must complete field placement by early August and all course work by the end of Summer Session II (no more than 2 courses in addition to field, for a total of

10 credits) to participate in May commencement ceremonies. Your degree will be officially conferred in August. • There are 4 electives: Two electives with clinical practice content must be concurrent with the second year spring and summer semesters of Year II field. One elective

must be a Social Action course, and one elective is open and may be any course we offer. • Electives may be taken summer, fall, or spring semesters. • Social Work with Groups SW 577 is not a required course for Advanced Standing students. Students may take the course as an elective. For students who have completed a Specialization: To graduate with a Specialization designation a student must complete all Specialization requirements. List the Specialization courses you have already completed and the courses you will complete by graduation. Please note that specializations are only granted with approval of the Specialization Coordinator. Specialization____________________________

• Elective title & course number____________________________________ semester taken_________



• Approval of Specialization/ Coordinator______________________________ date ______________


44

Revised June 8, 2012

45


FIELD EDUCATION(Please see the field Manual for more information)

REGISTRATION

registration occurs three times a year for matriculated students:

November for spring semester• March for summer semester• april for fall semester-continuing students• June for fall semester-new MsW students•

students receive a registration information packet sent to their official simmons email address prior to registration that contains course descriptions, class schedules, and prerequisite requirements. The informa-tion is also posted to the ssW web page. students are expected to stay informed about course requirements and registration deadlines. all registration is done on aarc, the simmons college online registration system. students should consult with their advisor about course selections and course sequencing, the service Desk (617-521-2222) for technical issues, and the registrar’s office (617-521-2111 or [email protected]) regarding aarc registration error codes and registration issues. other questions should be directed to the ssW coordinator of registration, suzanne Mullarkey at 617-521-3901 or [email protected]. New students register in June prior to the fall semester.


46Revised 10/7/2011 4:48:57 PM

CLINICAL PRACTICE ELECTIVES These courses are designated as meeting the requirement for the clinical practice elective. This is a sample of courses, not a comprehensive listing of possible clinical practice electives. There is no guarantee that they will be offered each semester. Be sure to read registration information closely when selecting electives. SW 425 Family Approaches in Clinical Social Work SW 438 Alcohol, Drugs & Social Work Practice (new title) SW 462 Advanced Group Work with Vulnerable Populations (new title) SW 471 The Role of Religion and Spirituality in Clinical Social Work SW 473 An In‐Depth Look at the Clinical Process SW 475 Narrative Approaches SW 478 Social Work Practice in Health Care SW 480 Couples Therapy SW 482 Domestic Violence and Family Welfare SW 483 Cognitive‐Behavioral Approaches and Treatment SW 484 Clinical Social Work with Low Income Communities SW 487 Ethical and Legal Dilemmas SW 494 Multiple Faces of Trauma SW 496 Prevention: Effective Models for Social Work Practice SW 499 Addressing Violence SW 501 Social Work Practice with Older Adults SW 507 Developing an Interdisciplinary Approach to Health Management of the Aging SW 527 Social Work Practice and Ethics SW 528 Child and Adolescent Trauma SW 529 Forensic Social Work with Adolescents and Adults SW 536 Perspectives on Severe Mental Illness SW 539 Social Work in Schools SW 557 Clinical Practice with Immigrants and Refugees SW 561 Social Work with Exceptional Children SW563 Collaborative Approaches to Family Therapy SW566 Play Therapy SW 567 Social Work Practice in the Criminal Justice System SW 568 Evidence Based Practice in Substance Abuse SW 570 Social Work Practice with Alcohol and Drug Problems SW 571 Clinical Social Work with Groups and Addictions SW 572 Issues in the Treatment of Mental Illness SW 573 Child and Family Therapy SW 577 Social Work with Groups (only for those who began before Summer 2, 2008) SW 578 Practice with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness SW 579 Social Work Practice with Adolescents SW 582 Attachment, Neurobiology, and Social Work Practice SW 584 Clinical Practice with Individuals: A Psychodynamic Model SW 587 Assessment and Treatment of Co‐Occurring Disorders SW 588 A Case‐based Approach to Learning Treatment of trauma with Child and Adolescents SW 589 DBT in Clinical Social Work Practice SW 595 Child and Adolescent Assessment and Diagnosis SW 599 Integrative Seminar: Strengthening Your Professional Voice

47


Revised 8/18/2011 1:25:09 PM

SOCIAL ACTION ELECTIVES These elective courses are designated as meeting the requirement for the social action elective. This is a sample of courses, not a comprehensive list of all social action electives. There is no guarantee that they will be offered each semester. Be sure to read registration information closely when selecting electives.

SW 451 Urban Leadership Seminar I/Leadership Skills for Social Work Practice SW 458 Advocacy and Social Action in Child & Family Welfare SW 463 Advocacy and Social Action with Disability & Chronic Illness Policy SW 514 Policy & Practice in the Justice System SW 523 Advocacy and Social Action for Professional Social Workers SW 538 Radical Social Action: Don’t Mourn, Organize! SW 545 Political Strategies for Professional Social Workers SW 553 International Social Work SW 554 Health Care Policy & Social Action SW 558 Human Services in Developing Countries SW 583 Advocacy and Social Action in Gerontology SW 598 Leadership Development in Anti-Violent Work: Susan Schechter Social Action Seminar


48

PREREqUISITES

The ssW curriculum committee determines the needed prerequisites for the ssW courses.

at the time of registration, the registration packet includes information on prerequisites for the ssW courses. When students register for a course, they must have satisfactorily completed the required courses prior to the start of the next semester. There are no exceptions to this policy.

at times, aarc mistakenly allows students to register for courses for which they have not met the prerequisites. We expect that students will be familiar with prerequisites and not rely on aarc.

it is the student’s responsibility to check the prerequisites chart prior to registration and be certain they are in the proper courses. if a student is in a course for which they have not met the prerequisites, they may be asked to drop the course or take the course again at a later date.

GRADUATION INFORMATION (see the Graduation Policy in the handbook of MsW Policies)

Conferral Dates:May 10th commencement 2013, for those who complete all degree requirements by the end of spring semester. • The below 2013 dates are approximate. The actual dates have not been set as of the printing of this document. Please contact the registrar’s office for exact dates.

august - the third friday, for those who complete all degree requirements by august 10th.•

october -the third friday, for those who complete all degree requirements by october 1st.•

January 2014-the fourth friday, for those who complete all degree requirements by the end of the fall 2013 • semester.

august Graduation

all grades for august graduates must be posted no later than the end of the 2nd week in august in order to be eligible for august conferral. The actual degree conferral date is the third friday in august. Upon satisfactory completion of all degree requirements as noted above, those who participate in May commencement will have their degree conferred in august, and their diplomas awarded in september.

Diplomas:

May graduates’ diplomas are distributed at the commencement ceremony. students who do not attend may be picked up their diploma in the office of the registrar two business days after commencement. for January, august, and october graduates, diplomas will be mailed to you directly from the printer using the address on aarc (approximately 6 weeks after degree conferral). it is important that the student’s address is correct on aarc.

Replacement diplomas cost $35. Diplomas will not be ordered for students who don’t return completed Petitions to Graduate (see Petition on page 56). Late petitions may delay the availability of your diploma.

49


Transcripts

Transcripts can be ordered (through the registrar’s office) at any time after the conferral of degrees. To order, log onto aarc and click “transcript requests” and follow the directions.

aarc will remain operational for students until approximately 2 months after graduation and transcripts will be free and should be ordered this way. if you need to order transcripts after that time, you should go to the simmons registrar’s web page (http://www.simmons.edu/offices/provost/registrar/) and follow the directions listed there. There will be a fee de-pending on your choice of options such as expedited service etc.

Revised June 14, 2010

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Foundation Courses (Year I)Information Literacy Program SW 402 (fall) or spring for students beginning in January [not for credit] Field SW446 (fall) [5 credits] Field SW446 (spring) [5credits] Dynamics of Racism & Oppression SW409 [3 credits] (can be taken Year I or fall Year II) Social Policy SW401A (Fall) [3 credits] Social Policy SW401B (Spring) [3 credits] Human Behavior & Social Environment SW411 A(fall) [3 credits] Human Behavior & Social Environment SW411B (spring) [3 credits] Social Work Practice SW421A (fall) [3 credits] Social Work Practice SW421B (spring) [3 credits] Research SW441 [3 credits] Introduction to Social Work with Groups SW577 [3 credits] (can be taken Year I or fall Year II)

Advanced Courses (Year II)Field SW447 (fall) [4 credits] Field SW447 (spring) [4 credits] Advanced Clinical Practice1 SW424 [3 credits] Evaluation of Social Practice2 SW509 [3 credits] Assessment and Diagnosis SW414 [3 credits] Required Elective (Social Action)3 [3 credits] Required Elective (Clinical Practice)4 [3 credits] Open Elective [3 credits] Open Elective [3 credits] Total number of credits: 66

Specializations: To graduate with a Specialization designation a student must complete all Specialization requirements. Please refer to the Specialization course list for a detailed description (pages 43-44 in the Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines). Please note that specializations are only granted with approval of the Specialization Coordinator.

Urban Leadership students will use 2 electives for 2 required Urban Leadership courses (SW451 & 452). UL l (Leadership Skills for Social Work Practice) is taken concurrently with Spring Year I Field and fulfills the Social Action requirement; UL II(Leadership in Action for Social Work Practice) is taken concurrently with Spring Year II Field. Students should consult the ULHandbook for information about required UL certificate mini courses.

Advanced Standing: See Advanced Standing Student Course Credit Checklist and Sample Course Schedule for graduation requirements.

One Year Placement Option (OYO): See OYO course credit check list.

Students are responsible for tracking their own credit requirements. Regular meetings with faculty advisors and review of AARC transcripts are encouraged to keep track of credits completed or needed.


50

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

The simmons college office of Disability services provides support services and reasonable accommodations when requested by students who qualify for them. if a student is interested in accessing the services of the Disability services office, they should contact the Disability services office. students can seek assistance in contacting Dis-ability services by meeting with the assistant Dean for student affairs or with their advisor. students are encour-aged to inquire about these services if they are interested in learning more about accessing services.

STUDENT CONFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The ssW student conference fund is a fund which supports student attendance at professional conferences through small scholarships to individual students. Guidelines for application to the fund are:

• any ssW student in the full or extended program can apply for funds• a student is eligible for one scholarship per academic year• a scholarship can be applied to the cost of registration up to $250.• conferences must be relevant to the student’s study of professional social work.• To apply, students must complete a brief application, a brochure or other documentation from the

conference should be attached to the application.• students must submit the application for approval at least one month prior conference.• a student must be in good standing and cannot miss class to attend a conference. in most situations,

students should not miss time from field placement. any missed time from field placement requires pre approval by field instructor and advisor.

• students receiving funds from other ssW sources, may not be eligible for support from this fund. scholarship funds are limited.

for more information and an application, please contact assistant Dean suzanne sankar [email protected]

AWARDS

each year simmons college school of social Work confers awards to students who have made significant contri-butions to our community, their agency, or the larger field of social work. We invite and encourage nominations. information about submitting nominations is posted each spring in the ssW Newsletter.instructions for making a nomination:

1. Please review the list of awards. each award has different criteria so please read the descriptions carefully.

2. each award, except the Written scholarship award requires a short nomination statement. The statement should include the student’s name, how you know the student, and the reasons you think the student should receive the award, including descriptions of the ways in which the student excels. Please include your contact information on the nomination.

3. self-nominations: any student may nominate him/herself for an award. such nominations must be a companied by a letter of support from a faculty advisor, agency field instructor, or classroom faculty. self nominations will not be reviewed without a letter of support.

4. Written scholarship in social Work: Three (3) hard copies of the paper submitted for consideration are required.

5. all nominations and supporting statement or papers are due on the date set by the committee each year. The date and instructions for submitting nominations are published in the Newsletter.

THE SHIRLEy SAKS GREENBERG AWARD:

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This award honors shirley saks Greenberg who received her Ms degree from simmons ssW in 1956. Mrs. Greenberg had a gift for combining theoretical perspectives to understanding with clinical practice. she had a particular interest in the area of psychodynamic psychotherapy and clinical casework. she met an untimely death in 1982. her family established this award in her honor to recognize a first-year student who shows promise in integrating theory with practice, especially practice pertaining to psychodynamic theory. in recent years the scope of the award has been expanded to a broader definition of clinical practice.

THE IRIS MACRAE AWARD:

This award was established in 1980 by students, colleagues, alumni and friends to honor iris Macrae, a member of the sim-mons faculty, who devoted the major part of her professional life to teaching and advising students at the school. her dedi-cation and commitment remain an inspiration to all that knew her. it seems especially appropriate to use the funds given in her honor to recognize achievement by ssW students. in 1983, the faculty decided that this award, consisting of a certificate and an honorarium, should be granted to a student in his/her final year. Please submit the name of a student who has made an outstanding achievement in either class or field work.

examples of field achievement could include special talents in working with a challenging client group, initiation of a special program in the agency, or other evidence of creative achievement in the course of the field work practicum. class (aca-demic) achievement might consist or overall outstanding performance or particularly creative papers completed for course requirements.

achieVeMeNT iN PoliTical acTioN aND social JUsTice aWarD:

This award is given to a student who makes a contribution in the areas of political action and social justice through interven-tion in a larger system.

OUTSTANDING COMPETENCE IN MULTICULTURAL PRACTICE:

This award is given to a student for work with a multicultural population, education to professional colleagues, program planning, or sensitivity and excellence in cross-cultural practice.

facUlTY leaDershiP aWarD: This award is given at faculty discretion for exemplary school or commu-nity leadership. This may be awarded to an individual or group of students.

The coMMUNiTY serVice aWarD: This award recognizes special service to the simmons community by a student or group of students. Nominations may be made by students, faculty, or staff. Note: the student Government selects the winner of this award.

WRITTEN SCHOLARSHIP IN SOCIAL WORK:

This award is given to a student who demonstrates creativity, originality and outstanding scholarship in a written paper. submitted papers should hold promise for publication. Three hard copies of the paper must be submitted.

THE PRISCILLA MULLEN RILEy AWARD:

established in memory of Professor emerita Priscilla Mullen riley, this award honors the dedication, commitment and perseverance of its namesake. Professor riley experienced significant challenges in her early life, yet went on to have a very successful, rich and rewarding career as a clinical social worker and a social work educator. she was a member of the simmons faculty for thirty-four years and the Director of its field education Department for many years. she was a national leader in promoting the importance and centrality of field education in graduate social work learning. in her long profes-sional life, perhaps her greatest effort was in service of supporting and advocating for students who experienced challenges and obstacles to completing graduate school. she fiercely believed that all students should be given the support necessary to succeed. This award is granted to a graduating student who has done very well in classes and in field despite navigating and managing challenging circumstances.


52

appendix iiForms

53


Add/Drop Form

Simmons College Graduate School of Social Work

Name Date

Student ID _______________________

Program: Full-time Extended Ant. Graduation Date

Term: Fall Spring Summer I Summer II

Courses to be AddedTotal credit hours added

Courses to be Dropped (Note: SSW students may drop a class up until the last day of class, but will receive a “W” except Field Placement)

Total credit hours dropped

Note to Registrar’s office, a student may drop a class and receive a “W” up to the last day of class except Field Placement SW 446,447,547, and 596.

Student’s Signature

Please submit to the Registrar’s Office in C 210.Fax 617-521-3144, Phone 617-521-2111 or [email protected]

Processed on: By:

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours


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Leave Of Absence Form for SIMMONS COLLEGE

SSW Students School of Social Work 300 The Fenway Boston, Massachusetts 02115 Personal Information Name ___________________________________________________________________________________

(First) (Middle) (Last) (Any previous last name) Birth date __________________ Place of birth________________________________

ID number ________________________ Gender: □ Female □ Male _________________________________________________________________________________________ Current Mailing address _________________________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip code Telephone______________________ Work telephone_____________________Cell__________________ Permanent email address ____________________________________________________________________________ Permanent address (If different than current address) _________________________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip code Emergency contact person ________________________________________________________________________________________ (Name) (Telephone) Optional Information Country of citizenship______________________________________________________________________

If not a U.S. Citizen, are you a permanent resident of the U.S.? □ Yes □ No If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States, what is your ethnic/racial background?

□ Asian American Native American □ Caucasian / White □ African American

□ Hispanic/ Latino □ Caribbean – American □ Pacific Islander

□ Other (please specify)____________________________ Self identify___________________________ Reason for Leave

Office use only □ LOA letter received □ Form processed Date __________

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Handbook of MSW PoliciES and acadEMic GuidElinES Type of Leave (see the School of Social Work Policies and Procedures Handbook for detailed information)

□ Voluntary □ Conditional □ Mandatory for medical, psychiatric and/or performance reasons

What program are you enrolled in?

□ MSW Full-time □ MSW Extended (3 or 4 years) □MSW Urban Leadership

□MSW Advanced Standing □Ph.D. Effective Date ________________ Intended Date of Return __________________

1. Students in good standing can take a leave of absence of up to two years from the SSW program without needing to reapply. Students who require a leave of absence must meet with their advisor, then make a formal request for a leave of absence in writing to the Assistant Dean. If and when the student decides to return, written notice must be provided to the Assistant Dean at least four months prior to the return. Should a leave of absence extend beyond two years, the student will need to formally reapply to the program. At five years or beyond, prior academic work must be repeated. Students on a conditional or mandatory leave should plan to follow the reentry policy outlined in Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines. Students who receive financial aid must inform the Office of Student Financial Services of their Leave of Absence (617-521-2001). Also, a Leave of Absence will have implications for SSW Merit Scholarships. Please refer to your Scholarship Response Form, if this applies to you.

2. International Students: You must contact the Office of Student Life before taking a leave. Taking a Leave of Absence may have important ramifications including possible loss of visa. Before you return, you will also need to submit the appropriate documentation, including the Confidential Declaration and Certification of Finances and a Certificate of Eligibility. You should contact the SSW admissions office to initiate the process for submitting these documents several months prior to your anticipated return date.

3. I certify that the information supplied on this form is accurate and complete, and I understand that by submitting this form I agree to abide by and be subject to the institution’s rules, regulations and disciplinary code. All degree requirements must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. At 5 years or more prior academic coursework must be repeated. _________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date Please mail this completed form to: Suzanne Mullarkey Simmons School of Social Work 300 The Fenway, suite P 106 Boston, MA 02115


56

PETITION TO GRADUATE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK Students must return a completed Petition to Graduate form to the Registration Coordinator, Suzanne Mullarkey, in the School of Social Work (room P304-P of the Palace Road Building) before the appropriate date indicated below. Incomplete petitions will be returned to the student. Petitions received by the School of Social Work after the deadline or filled out with the incorrect graduation date may result in a postponed graduation date or may result in the student’s name being left out of the Commencement Program.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Please print your NAME exactly as you wish it to appear on your diploma:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

First Middle Last

Degree: Please check degree you are receiving.

_____ Master of Social Work _____ Doctor of Philosophy

_____ Master of Social Work with a Specialization in ____________________________________

_____ M.S.W. & Certificate in Urban Leadership in Clinical Social Work

Conferral Date:

_____ January 2013 Petition due by December 1. (Coursework will be completed by the fall semester.)

_____ May 2013 Petition due by March 1. (Coursework will be completed in the spring semester.)

_____ August 2013 Petition due by June 15. (Coursework will be completed by August 10)

_____ October 2013 Petition due by August 15. (Coursework will be completed by October 1)

Previous Degrees Earned:

College: ________________________________________________ Degree: ________________ (B.A., B.S., M.A., etc.)

College: ________________________________________________ Degree: ________________ (B.A., B.S., M.A., etc.)

Commencement:Students who will finish their degree requirements by May 2013 are invited to participate in the commencement ceremony on May 10, 2013.A SSW student may “walk” in the May Commencement Ceremony if he/she is in good standing (no more than one "MP", "B-" or lower) and meets the following conditions:1) The student has no more than 2 courses left of the course requirements and these courses will be completed and graded no later than August 10th. 2) The student will finish the field placement by the end of the second week in August or 3) The student is an Advanced Standing student and is registered to complete course work and field placement by August 10th. 2. (No more than 2 courses and field education for a total of 10 credits) All grades for August graduates must be posted no later than the end of the 2nd week in August in order to be eligible for August conferral. The actual degree conferral date is the third Friday in August.

• Will you finish all of your degree requirements by May 2013, and plan to attend the Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 10, 2013? _______ Yes ________ No

Or• Will you finish your degree requirements by August 10, 2013 and plan to “walk” in the Commencement

ceremony on Friday, May 10, 2013? (August Graduate candidates only) _______ Yes ________ No

• If yes, how many guests do you estimate will attend? _______

Diplomas:Diplomas may be picked up at Commencement 2013 or in the Office of the Registrar two business days after Commencement. For January, August and October graduates, diplomas will be mailed to home addresses as listed on AARC. Replacement diplomas cost $35.

Student signature: __________________________________________ ID # __________________________

*Failure to complete and submit Specialization paperwork may delay entry of designation on transcript. Date: _______________________

Late petitions may delay the availability of your diploma.

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Simmons School of Social Work Request for Specialization

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

Student Name_________________________________________________________________________________

Student ID number _____________________________________________________________________________

Student Simmons email address___________________________________________________________________ SPECIALIZATIONS

Please select your fi rst and second choice of specialization. “No Specialization”, can be selected as your second choice. Indicate fi rst choice with a 1 and second choice with a 2. If you choose not to specialize, you do not need to complete this form.

Trauma and Interpersonal Violence___________________________•

Child and Family__________________________________________•

Health and Aging_________________________________________•

Mental Health and Addictions_______________________________•

No specialization__________________________________________•

To graduate with a specialization, you must complete all requirements of the specialization you select. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet all requirements. Each specialization has a list of required and recommended electives. To specialize a student will need to complete at least two electives from the required list and no more than one class from the recommended list. Students will also need to complete a related fi eld placement.

_________________________________________ Date _____________________

Student Signature

Please return your completed form by December 7th to the box outside of room 408 J (offi ce of Registration Coordinator, Suzanne Mullarkey).

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________Bottom portion for use by the School of Social Work and the Registrar’s Offi ce only

Specialization granted:

_____________________________________________________________________

Must be counter signed by the Assistant Dean

_________________________________________ Date _____________________

Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean


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Simmons College School of Social Work Request to Change Specialization

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

Student Name_________________________________________________________________________________

Student ID number _____________________________________________________________________________

Student Simmons email address___________________________________________________________________ REASON FOR CHANGING SPECIALIZATION ________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CURRENT SPECIALIZATION


Child and Family__________________________________________•

Health and Aging_________________________________________•



REQUEST FOR NEW SPECIALIZATION: (SELECT ONE)


Child and Family__________________________________________•

Health and Aging_________________________________________•



Advisor Signature_________________________________ Student Signature________________________________________

Date _____________________ Date _____________________

All requests for changes must be reviewed by your advisor. Please return this form to the Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean (P408 E). Changes may aff ect course selection, placement planning and may have implications for graduation date.

Request for change approved yes_______ no________

_____________________________________________ Date _____________________

Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean

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Simmons College School of Social Work Petition to Transfer Credit for Entering Students

Student Name___________________________________________________________

Student ID number _______________________________________________________

MSW COURSES: PETITIONING FOR TRANSFER

Course # Title Sem/yr Credits Grade ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

INSTITUTION: __________________________________________________________

Petitioners must provide course syllabi, and fi eld placement evaluations. Transcript with fi nal grades is required. (Final Transcripts required for Admissions can be used for this purpose).

Students may transfer course credits taken in a CSWE accredited MSW program at another institution. The student must provide an offi cial transcript from that program and request transfer credits during the admissions process. Transfer credits will not be accepted after the Admissions process. To be transferred, a grade of “B” or better . Courses for transfer must be at least 3 credits, and they must be taken on a graduate level. In order to be granted transfer credit, a course must fi t within the guidelines of the Simmons MSW curriculum. All degree requirements must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. At 5 years or more prior academic coursework must be repeated.

The School Social Work does not accept transfer credits for any courses taken previously in a program that is not an MSW CSWE accredited program. Neither certifi cate programs nor continuing education programs, even when taken in an MSW program, are eligible for transfer.

STUDENT SIGNATURE _________________________________________

DATE _____________________


60

Simmons CollegeSchool of Social Work Transfer Evaluation

Student Name___________________________________________________________

Student ID number _______________________________________________________

Transfer of credit granted for ______ credits Simmons SSW Course # Title Sem/yr Credits/Grade Institution Requirement Fulfi lled _________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________

Simmons School of Social Work Courses Required for Graduation

Foundation Classes course number / credits Advanced Classes course number/ credits

Information Literacy Program 402 NC Assessment & Diagnosis 414 3Field Workshop 40 NC Field Education Year II Fall 447 4 Human Behavior & the Social Environment 411A 3 Field Education Year II Spring 447 4 Human Behavior & the Social Environment 411B 3 Advanced Clinical Practice 424 3 Social Policy 401A 3 Evaluation in Social Work Practice 509 3 Social Policy 401B 3 Required Elective: Social Action 3 Social Work Practice 421A 3 Required Elective: Clinical Practice

Must be concurrent with Spring Semester Year II Field (447) 3

Social Work Practice 421B 3 Open Elective (Fall, Spring, or Summer) 3 Field Education Year I Fall 446 5 Open Elective (Fall, Spring, or Summer) 3 Field Education Year I Spring 446 5 Total Credits: 66 Social Work Research 441 3 Realities of Racism 409 3 Social Work with Groups 577 3

Total number of additional credits needed to graduate___________All degree requirements must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. At 5 years or more prior academic coursework must be repeated.

MSW courses to be completed for graduation are indicated with an X.Students should meet with their advisor to plan their schedule. _________________________________________ Date _____________________Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean

ssw notes:

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Simmons College School of Social Work Request for Permission take an Elective at Another Institution/Transfer of Credit

Student Name___________________________________________________________

Student ID number ______________________________________________________

Course # Title Sem/yr Grade/ Credits Institution _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Transfer of an elective courses taken at another institution

1. Matriculated Students with special interests may be given permission to take one elective course at another institution or in another Simmons graduate program if:

It is a Master’s level course at an accredited, degree-granting institution. •The course content shows clear relevance to the social work degree. •The course is not off ered at SSW. •The course earns a minimum of 3 credits and meets for at least of 28 classroom contact hours. •

Students must notify their advisor of such a proposal prior to the registration period. The advisor must review and approve the plan prior to its submission in writing to the Assistant Dean.

2. If permission is granted, the student is responsible for the transfer of credit to Simmons at the end of the semester. Non-receipt of a transcript and the executed Transfer of Credit Form by the proper deadline in the fi nal year could aff ect the stu-dent’s graduating on time. Students must receive a grade of “B” or better to transfer credit. The form can be obtained from the SSW Registration Coordinator or see page 59.

3. Students may not take any required courses outside of the School of Social Work.

The above request is approved. The student is responsible to acquire an offi cial transcript upon completion of the course.

The above request is denied for the following reason:

_________________________________________ Date _____________________Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________Bottom portion for use by the School of Social Work and the Registrar’s Offi ce only

Transfer of credit granted for 3 credits. Fulfi lls elective requirement.Students must receive a grade of “B” or better to transfer credit.

Must be counter signed by the Assistant Dean and accompanied by a copy of the offi cial transcript.

_________________________________________ Date _____________________Suzanne Sankar, Assistant Dean

Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines · changing sections of two-semester 1st year...

Documents

Transcript of Handbook of MSW Policies and Academic Guidelines · changing sections of two-semester 1st year...