The field practicum spans four semesters with each semester being fifteen weeks. There are two consecutive semesters of field placements for each academic year. The first two semesters require two days of internship (these days are Tuesday/Wednesday or Thursday/Friday, 16 hours per week) while the last two semesters requires 3 days/24 hours per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday). An exception to this 3 days/24 hour per week requirement for second year field placement is available to students wishing to spread their second year placement over 3 semesters, and requires 2 days/16 hours per week for each semester. This exception must be formally requested. A minimum total of 1,200 internship hours is required.

The first year practicum is planned for students to develop generalist practice skills in work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities within a transcultural perspective. The second year practicum provides further refinement of practice skills with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students are placed in agencies serving various populations-at-risk. Full and part-time students may petition the MSW Field Education Committee to consider their work site as a possible first year field placement.

Students in field practicum carry professional liability insurance, which is covered by a fall semester fee. Agencies may require the use of a car, proof of auto insurance, finger printing, and background check as requirements for placement.

Please see the Typical Course Plans (2-Year and 3-Year) and the MSW Program Bulletin for more details.

Important Links:

• 
  2011 MSW Program Bulletin | [PDF]
  Considering our MSW Program? Please read our bulletin for a detailed description of our program including our mission, goals and objectives, curriculum, and other pertinent information about our MSW Program.
• 
  2012 MSW Program Application
  Ready to apply? Please review our application and all the necessary instructions, due dates, and forms to apply to our MSW Program.
• 
  MSW Field Instruction
  Field education and internship are at the heart of social work and vital for professional training. Learn more about our field component.
• 
  Student Resources and SJSU Services
  Need additional support?  SJSU provides many services for students to help them achieve their educational goals.
• 
  MSW Student Handbook [PDF]
  This handbook is the guide to curriculum, policies, and procedures relevant to students in our MSW Program.
• 
  Title IV-E Child Welfare Training Program
  Thinking of a career in child welfare?  The Title IV-E program might be for you.
• Mental Health Initiative Program (MHIP)
  Thinking of a career in mental health?  The MHIP program might be for you.