School of Social Work (SSW) field education presents you with multiple opportunities to become a part of the professional social work community, where you will learn to integrate classroom knowledge with practice and develop your social work skills and identity. Field education provides an opportunity to participate in "hands-on" meaningful service and gain invaluable professional experience.
The SSW Office of Field Education (OFE) has over 550 fieldwork sites primarily in Southeast Michigan, but also in locations across the country and around the world with 750 licensed professional social workers who will mentor and help prepare you for a career in the social work field.
Social work students work closely with OFE Field Faculty to identify placement sites appropriate to curriculum objectives, learning goals and individual interests.
Field Students
Get oriented to MSW field education with key resources, deadlines, and guidance to help you prepare, apply, and succeed in your field placement.
Field Instructors
Access essential tools, training, and resources to support your role as a Field Instructor while supervising and mentoring University of Michigan School of Social Work graduate students.
Field Education Events
F26 Placement Verification Forms (PVFs) Open
For all students currently enrolled in field.
Students must submit their PVF's by Tuesday 09/15/26. This will allow one week for their Field Instructor/Task Supervisor to review, approve and submit the PVF by the final due date of Tuesday 09/22/26.
Virtual Pre-Field Orientation for Online Students Starting Field in the Fall 2026 Term
Pre-Field Orientation is an opportunity to discuss the start of your Field Education experience. This mandatory meeting will go through expectations, important due dates, and help you prepare to begin your field placement.
Virtual Introduction to Field Education Webinar for MSW Students Starting Field in the Winter 2027 Term
This session is for all incoming Winter 2027 On-Campus and Online MSW students. Students that are being admitted into the MSW program in Fall 2026 but will not start field until the Winter 2027 term, please plan to attend this virtual Introduction to Field Education Webinar.
