Field education in Eastern Connecticut State University's Social Work Program integrates student classroom learning with practical field education under the supervision of professional social workers.Students are expected to engage in three progressively responsible and challenging experiences: a 20-hour introductory practicum, a 45-hour community practice internship, and a 400-hour generalist senior practicum. All policies related to practica and student expectations are contained in the student handbook.

Through Eastern's social work field education program students willl become:

• skillful in a variety of helping roles
• effective in work with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
• ethical and knowledgeable practitioners
• culturally competent social workers and
• actively engaged in the promotion of human rights and social justice

Introductory Practicum

The introductory field work experience is
intended to offer students first-hand exposure to the atmosphere and functioning of a social service agency and observation of the roles and tasks of social work professionals.This practicum is conducted as part of SWK 200. A variety of local agencies offer these opportunities. Students must seek approval for their settings and their supervisors must evaluate student work. These documents are available here.

Community Practicum

This seond social work practicum is part of SWK 300, Generalist Practice with Communities and Organizations. Students are placed in community mobilzation projects which are proposed annually by community organizations. Students work in teams to mobilize community resources, affecting measureable change. Students must document a minimum of 45 hours within the community setting. Information about practicum purposes and policies for agencies and students is available. Students will apply for the placement and develop a learning contract. Supervisors evaluate students individually and as teams.

Senior Practicum

The senior practicum is a component of SWK 350 and SWK 450, requiring 400 hours of social work practice under the supervision of a social work professional. Agencies throughout Eastern Connecticut provide expert learning environment. Students apply by February 28 for the fall / spring practicum. Leaning contracts will define the specific knowledge, skills and values to be developed. Student learning outcomes will be evaluated through written reports and faculty liason visits to the field settings.