Social Work Practicum

CMU's Bachelor of Social Work Program has developed unique partnerships and collaborations with multiple agencies in the Grand Valley, offering community-based opportunities to develop and apply social work skills. Practicum opportunities are available in an array of agencies, including public, non-profit, multidisciplinary, inpatient and outpatient services, human services, end-of-life care, addiction, law enforcement, senior care, schools, community clinics, medical, and mental health settings. This breadth of options ensures BSW students have exposure to varied social work career paths and access to practice opportunities that support their interests and career goals.

Current BSW students apply for practicum placement during the Spring semester before senior year. Students are expected to complete 450 hours (approximately 15 hours a week during both fall and spring semesters) of training during the senior year-long practicum. The Bachelor of Social Work practicum is a binding contract through consecutive semesters. Practicum and Seminar courses are required to be taken together.

Important Dates for Practicum

February 1: Online practicum application due for current BSW juniors
First two weeks of February: Interviews with Director of Practice Education to discuss student practicum priorities and considerations
Mid-February to Mid-March: First interviews with agencies, must be completed by the start of Midterm Break
End of March: Agencies determine whether student is accepted for placement
First two weeks of April: 2nd round of interviews for students not accepted to first choice of placement
May 1: Final acceptance and all practicum paperwork due
August 1: Students contact agency to determine Fall semester practicum schedule
Practicum may begin on the first day of the semester.
Students may not start or complete their practicum hours early.

Please contact Professor Johnson if you have any questions.

Sarah Johnson, MSW
Assistant Professor of Social Work
BSW Director of Practice Education
Houston Hall 221A
[email protected]
970.248.1723

Getting Started - Where to Start

Colorado Mesa University Required Forms

Social Work Assessment Documents