Social Work in the Public Schools

During the first term of enrollment, students interested in school social work should consult with the appropriate faculty advisor about the practice of social work in schools and certification requirements for such practice. Since requirements vary from state to state, and these are not all covered by the usual MSW program, it is necessary to plan the academic program of each prospective school social worker individually and early in the MSW program. The appropriate faculty advisor can provide more information about requirements for temporary approval as a school social worker in the state of Michigan.

The requirements of the University of Michigan as per the Michigan State Department of Education for a recommendation for temporary approval as a school social worker in Michigan are as follows:

  1. MSW from the University of Michigan
  2. Field instruction that includes direct practice with families and children
  3. SW 612 - Mental Health and Mental Disorders of Children and Youth or equivalent at graduate or undergraduate level
  4. SW 614 - Uses and Implications of Psychological Testing in Social Work or the equivalent at graduate or undergraduate level
  5. SW 642 - Social Work in Educational Settings or the equivalent from another graduate course at a school of social work in Michigan

Prior to graduation (last term) students who have met the requirements for the state of Michigan should request a letter stating they are eligible for a recommendation for approval from the appropriate faculty advisor.

The faculty contact for Social Work in the Public Schools is Professor Beth Sherman at shermanb@umich.edu.

Information on Social Work in School Settings for Current MSW Students