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Master of Social Work Field Education

SOCW 505 (6) Social Work Field Practice

SOCW 505 provides an opportunity to apply and integrate theory and practice in clinical social work practice settings. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Completion of all required course work. There is no PLA process for SOCW 505 and it is required for all students.

The process for securing a placement is outlined in the MSW Field Experience Manual. The Field Coordinator is available to meet with MSW students regarding placements after the BSW students have all been placed (usually mid February). Students wanting to familiarize themselves with programs and services in the community are encouraged to purchase a Directory of Community Services from Kelowna Community Resources.

Practicum Application (Proposal) Deadlines

Upon completion of all MSW course work, students are permitted to begin practicum at the start of each new term at UBC. The exact practicum start date can be negotiated with the Field Education Office and practicum agency.

In order to ensure adequate time to make all necessary practicum arrangements the following deadlines will apply to all prospective MSW practicum students:

• September Practicum Start (proposal due by July 2)
• January Practicum Start (proposal due by October 15)
• May Practicum Start (proposal due by March 1)
• July Practicum Start (proposal due by April 30)

The MSW Placement Application Form (General) can be completed and submitted on-line.

Practicum in the Place of Employment

In considering the option of a paid/workplace practicum, the most important criteria is the need to give MSW students the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge. All practica in the place of employment must have prior approval of the Field Education Coordinator (see the MSW Field Experience Manual for a description of the approval process). Proposals must be submitted, by completing the MSW Placement Application Form (Workplace), a minimum of two months prior to the intended start date of the practicum.