What is Social Work Practice-Based Learning?
“Practice-Based Learning” refers to what is commonly known as internships. Social work students utilize practice-based internships to fulfill requirements for their degree programs and to explore areas of practice, which can include schools, hospitals, nonprofit sector, medical clinics, nursing homes, research, human service agencies, community mental health, and many more.
In their internship, Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students complete 450 internship hours for their degree program. Master of Social Work (MSW) students complete from 675 to 945 internship hours, depending on the type of master’s program, such as full-time, advanced standing, or distance.
In your supervised internship, you’ll find valuable learning opportunities at a community agency or organization. Our generalist and advanced generalist Practice-Based Learning placements allow students to implement the knowledge and values studied in the classroom, as well as expand practice skills that address foundation and concentration-level practice behaviors and competencies.
Students
Learn more about the internship process and access resources to get you started.
Agencies
Learn how your agency can participate in hosting a CSU social work student and access resources for their placement.
Going International
International internships are a unique opportunity for our students to impact communities in global settings and apply their social work skills in new and exciting environments. Upon returning, students can apply what they learned abroad in other contexts in local communities.
