The employment-based field placements (EBPs) recording aims to guide students through the intricacies of applying for a field placement at their current place of employment. We provide an introduction to the roles of the Office of Field Education, field instructors, and task supervisors, emphasizing the teamwork involved in supporting students throughout their field experience.
Key highlights include an overview of the EBP application process, eligibility criteria, and the importance of aligning field tasks with the nine core social work competencies as required by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The informational session stresses that field placements are educational experiences distinct from regular job duties and require additional planning and consideration, particularly in separating employment tasks from learning objectives. Students are encouraged to assess their current workplace dynamics before applying and to identify suitable MSW field instructors with at least two years of postgraduate experience. The session covers potential implications of changes in employment status and offers guidance on negotiating potential challenges associated with integrating field education with workplace responsibilities. Detailed application steps are reviewed, from initial communication with our office to securing approvals and completing legal affiliations (when necessary) with the university.
By the end of the session, students are equipped with the knowledge to decide whether an EBP is the right path for their educational and professional development.
University of Michigan
School of Social Work
1080 South University Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1106