Good things are happening over in 蹤獲扦-Dearborns small but mighty Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Last year, you may remember news that the department started offering a single streamlined major with three concentrations to give students more flexibility and focus. Now, the team over at HHS is launching a partnership with the University of Michigans School of Social Work that allows 蹤獲扦-Dearborn students to complete a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Ann Arbor in just one extra year.
Heres how it works. During their first, second and third academic years at 蹤獲扦-Dearborn, Health and Human Services (HHS) students interested in social work complete their required courses for the Bachelor of Science in HHS with a Human Services concentration. Then, by March 1 of their junior year, if theyre interested in getting an MSW, they can apply for admission to a cooperative program with the U-M School of Social Work. Year four is when the magic happens. If accepted, 蹤獲扦-Dearborn students would take four graduate courses that count toward both the completion of their undergraduate HHS degree at 蹤獲扦-Dearborn and their School of Social Work MSW. Finally, after earning their bachelor's degree, students matriculate into the MSW program and can finish in as little as three additional semesters. The MSW program also offers opportunities for part-time, online and evening/weekend studies.
HHS Chair Patricia Wren says the new partnership saves 蹤獲扦-Dearborn students not only time but money since they can complete four masters courses at undergraduate prices with their existing financial aid packages.
Ive talked to many prospective students and their parents about whether they can study social work here, so this partnership is perfect for 蹤獲扦-Dearborn students. Wren says. They can stay close to home and complete their undergraduate HHS degrees in small classes taught by full-time faculty and working professionals. That rigorous academic preparation here is a natural springboard to all of the graduate and professional training programs that 蹤獲扦-Ann Arbor has to offer. Were thrilled that our colleagues in the School of Social Work saw the value in what were doing and wanted to partner with us.
We are so excited to collaborate on this innovative partnership, says Lynn Videka, Carol T. Mowbray Collegiate Professor of Social Work and dean of the School of Social Work. The streamline curriculum offers students an accessible and flexible schedule to attain both their bachelors and their MSW degree, and provides the education and training they need to become effective social work practitioners, educators, researchers and leaders.
Current 蹤獲扦-Dearborn students who meet the first three year requirements can apply to the new HHS to MSW Program beginning in March 2021. For more details and a complete list of requirements, check out HHSs official program page.
