The signature pedagogy of social work education - the Practicum - brings academic knowledge to life, offering students the critical opportunity for application, integration, and socialization into social work roles.

The practicum education process is pivotal to launching competent professional social workers and is a partnership involving the Social Work Program, Practicum Education Program, Social Work Faculty and Staff, Community Partners, Practicum Instructors, and Social Work Students.  Practicum experiences occur in a variety of settings, including child welfare, medical, educational, criminal justice, mental health, addiction, and a wide range of other settings where generalist and advanced clinical practice can be learned and applied. Students have the opportunity to work with many diverse ethnic and cultural groups and may work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities and governmental and non-governmental entities. 

The Social Work Practicum Education Program at Westfield State University partners with organizations and programs that are in alignment with the NASW Code of Ethics, provide a range of learning opportunities, and demonstrate their commitment to student education by offering the skills, time, and knowledge of their staff to social work students.

The materials below provide useful resources for students applying for practicum placement, students currently in practicum, and for our Practicum Instructors.  You may also contact the Practicum Education Program at any time - we welcome your questions as well as your ideas and suggestions to continue to strengthen our practicum education process.

Practicum Applications

* Please read prior to selecting the appropriate application * 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 

PRACTICUM DOCUMENTATION SYSTEM


IPT (Intern Placement Tracking) – our web-based system for students, practicum instructors, and faculty liaisons – easy access and completion of all practicum-related documentation.

INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS