Foreword
This practicum manual is intended to serve as a comprehensive guide to the current MSW
Practicum Program of the Department of Social Work at SIUE. Practicum students, MSW field
instructors, and faculty field liaisons are all potential users of the manual. It is a companion to the
MSW Student Handbook. It is a working document which is under periodic if not constant
review by the Director of Practica, students, MSW Field Instructors, Field Liaisons, and other
interested parties. As such, policies and procedures are subject to change and will be revised
regularly to reflect program developments in the school and/or field. If you have questions
regarding a policy or procedure, please contact the Director of Practica. We hope that this manual
will be a useful tool for your professional development.
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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
General Information
Mission, Vision and Values
Department of Social Work Mission: To promote the well-being of persons and society and
advance social and economic justice through the provision of quality social work education,
excellence in scholarship, and collaboration in community service.
College of Arts & Sciences: “The central mission of the College of Arts & Sciences is to
transform thought. The College will provide excellent degree programs for its majors, minors,
and post-graduate students and offer an outstanding liberal arts and sciences foundation for
undergraduate students across the University. The College will promote scholarly and creative
activities, public service, and cultural and arts programming, all of the highest quality.” (from
SIUE-CAS website)
Graduate School: “Graduate education represents mastery of an academic discipline. As
distinct from undergraduate education, graduate education provides advanced knowledge in a
field of study that is characterized by specialized training in the discipline’s theory, research
methodology, and critical analysis. Specialization, however, is not narrow or limited.
Specialized training means concentrated learning in the depth and breadth of the discipline….The
following characteristics help define a quality program: Clarity of purpose; supportive learning
environment; academic experiences; and faculty…” (Statement on Quality Graduate Education,
from SIUE-Graduate School website).
SIUE institutional mission, vision, and values:
Mission: “SIUE is a public comprehensive university dedicated to the communication,
expansion, and integration of knowledge through excellent undergraduate education as its first
priority and complementary excellent graduate and professional academic programs; through the
scholarly, creative, and research activity of its faculty, staff, and students; and through public
service and cultural and arts programming in its region.” (SIUE Fact Book, 2010, p. 7)
Vision: “SIUE, as a premier Metropolitan University, will be recognized nationally for the
excellence of its programs and development of professional and community leaders.” (SIUE Fact
Book, 2010, p. 7)
Values [Note: Excerpts have been selected that highlight consistency with social work
department aims; the full text of the values statements is available in the SIUE Fact Book 2010,
available online at www.siue.edu/factbook]
“Citizenship: Social, civic, and political responsibility, globally, nationally, locally, and within
the university; active partnerships and a climate of collaboration and cooperation among faculty,
staff, students, and the larger community…continuous improvement and
innovation…outstanding scholarship and public service…
“Integrity: Accountability to those we serve and from whom we receive support; honesty in our
communications and in our actions
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“Openness: Inclusion of the rich diversity of humankind in all aspects of university life; respect
for individual differences; intellectual freedom and diversity of thought; access for all who can
benefit from our programs
“Wisdom: Creation, preservation, and sharing of knowledge; application of knowledge in a
manner that promotes the common good; life-long learning.” (SIUE Fact Book, 2010, pp. 7-8)
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University Statement on Diversity
All societies and peoples have contributed to the rich mix of contemporary humanity. In order to
achieve domestic and international peace, social justice, and the development of full human
potential, we must build on this diversity. SIUE nurtures an open, harmonious, and hospitable
climate that facilitates learning and work. Each member of the University is responsible for
contributing to such a campus environment.
SIUE is committed to education that explores the historic significance diversity in order to
understand the present and to better enable our community to engage the future. SIUE strives for
a student body and a workforce that manifests diversity.
University Statement on Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment will not be tolerated at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. It is
prohibited by law and conflicts with the policies and interests of the University. Therefore, no
member of the University community shall engage in sexual harassment. Student-to-student
harassment, employee-to-student harassment, student-to-employee harassment, and employee-toemployee harassment in on and off-campus settings will be covered by this policy. Students may
receive a copy of the Sexual Harassment Policy from the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs
or from the University’s home page.
Disability Support Services
Students who have a diagnosed disability may find assistance at the SIUE Office of Disability
Services (DSS) in Rendleman Hall room 1218. Disability Support Services provides resources,
advocacy, collaborative services, and educational outreach within the University community.
You may call 618-650-3726 for more information.
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MSW Program Mission, Goals, and Objectives
MSW Program Mission Statement
The Mission of the MSW program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department
is to promote social and economic justice and enhance social well-being through the
provision of quality graduate education, excellence in scholarship, and collaboration in
community service
MSW Programs Goals
Goal 1:
Prepare ethical and professional social workers to practice in multiple roles and settings
with respect to diverse backgrounds, needs, and systems levels
Goal 2:
Contribute to the social work knowledge base about theory, policy, and practice that can
be effective in ameliorating individual and social environmental problems
Goal 3:
Advocate for social and economic development and justice in the Metro East St. Louis region
and beyond through public service to organizations
Program Objectives
Foundation Objectives:
Students will demonstrate ability to:
1. Apply critical thinking skills within the context of professional social work practice.
2. Understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards and principles, and
practice accordingly.
3. Practice without discrimination and with respect, knowledge, and skills related to clients’ age,
class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, family structure, gender, marital status, national origin,
race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.
4. Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and apply strategies
of advocacy and social change that advance social and economic justice.
5. Understand and interpret the history of the social work profession and its contemporary
structures and issues.
6. Apply the knowledge and skills of a generalist social work perspective to practice with
systems of all sizes.
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7. Use theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual
development and behavior across the life span and the interactions among individuals and
between individuals and families, groups, organizations, and communities.
8. Analyze, formulate, and influence social policies.
9. Evaluate research studies, apply research findings to practice and evaluate their own practice
interventions.
10. Use communication skills differently across client populations, colleagues, and communities.
11. Use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice.
Concentration Objectives:
Students will demonstrate ability to:
1. Critically evaluate their practice within the area of concentration at all system levels.
2. Identify and respond to value conflicts and ethical dilemmas in the area of concentration.
3. Be culturally competent and be able to articulate commonalities and differences among diverse
groups within the area of concentration.
4. Identify oppressive and discriminating policy, practice and power relations; use change
strategies to reduce/eliminate harmful effects on client well-being and self-determination in the
area of concentration.
5. Identify and analyze historical developments in the area of concentration and their impact on
contemporary policy and practice.
6. Build on the generalist perspective; integrate specialized models in the area of concentration.
7. Critically analyze and discriminate among theories across the life span and system levels in the
context of relevant problems in the area of concentration.
8. Analyze, formulate and influence social policies relevant to the area of concentration.
9. Critically evaluate research in the area of concentration, demonstrate application to practice,
and complete group, program, or single subject research in the concentration practicum setting.
10. Evaluate and use verbal and written communication skills across client populations,
colleagues and communities relevant to the area of concentration.
11. Use supervision and consultation, which reflects an increasing degree of autonomy, selfunderstanding and openness to enhance social work practice in the area of concentration.
12. Analyze organizational dynamics and advocate for change at the level possible within agency
structure in the area of concentration.
13. Promote and sustain their professional development through continuous self-assessment and
actions, which build on their strengths and address challenges.
CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards can be found at www.cswe.org.
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Social Work Graduate Field Education---General Information
The graduate field education program is divided into four semesters of practica totaling a
minimum of 900 hours over the four semesters. SOCW526 and SOCW527 comprise the
foundation practica (225 hours minimum each) and SOCW528 and SOCW529 comprise the
concentration practica (250 hours minimum each). Foundation and concentration practica may
also be completed as summer block practica. SOCW 531 replaces SOCW526 and 527 and
requires a minimum of 450 hours of supervised practice; SOCW532 replaces SOCW527 and 528
and requires a minimum of 500 hours of supervised practice. All practica are supported with field
seminars designed to integrate learning in the classroom and field.
SOCW526 Field Instruction I, SOCW527 Field Instruction II and SOCW531 (Foundation Block)
The two semesters of foundation practica (SOCW526 and 527) and the foundation block
practicum (SOCW531) provide for skill development in generalist social work practice. The
objectives focus on students obtaining generalist skills in a variety of social work practice
settings. The Foundation Practica serve as the basis for subsequent concentration practica.
SOCW 526 builds on knowledge and skills learned in the following foundation courses: SOCW
501, SOCWW503, SOCW 507, and SOCW508. In the full-time program, SOCW526 is taken
concomitantly with SOCW505, 506 and 507. The following semester, SOCW527 or SOCW 531
are taken the concomitantly with SOCW502 and SOCW504.
Learning Objectives of SOCW526, 527 and 531
Students will:
1. Apply critical thinking skills within the context of professional social work practice.
(Foundation Objective 1; EPAS Core Competencies 1 & 3)
2. Understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards and principles, and
practice accordingly. (Foundation Objective 2: EPAS Core Competency 2)
3. Practice without discrimination and with respect, knowledge, and skills related to clients’ age,
class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, family structure, gender, marital status, national origin,
race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation. (Foundation Objective 3; EPAS Core Competency 4)
4. Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and apply strategies
of advocacy and social change that advance social and economic justice. (Foundation Objective
4: EPAS Core Competency 5)
5. Understand and interpret the history of the social work profession and its contemporary
structures and issues. (Foundation Objective 5: EPAS Core Competency 1)
6. Apply the knowledge and skills of a generalist social work perspective to practice with
systems of all sizes. (Foundation Objective 6; EPAS Core Competency 8)
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7. Use theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual
development and behavior across the life span and the interactions among individuals and
between individuals and families, groups, organizations, and communities. (Foundation
Objective 7; EPAS Core Competencies 6, 7 & 10)
8. Evaluate research studies, apply research findings to practice and evaluate their own practice
interventions. (Foundation Objective 9; EPAS Core Competency 6)
9. Use communication skills differently across client populations, colleagues, and communities.
(Foundation Objective 10; EPAS Core Competency 9)
10. Use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice. (Foundation
Objective11; EPAS Core Competency 1)
11. Function within the structure of organizations and service delivery systems and seek
necessary organizational change. (Foundation Objective 12)
12. Demonstrate a commitment to professional development through continuous self-assessment
and actions which build on personal/professional strengths and address challenges. (Foundation
Objective 13; EPAS Core Competency 1)
SOCW528 Advanced Field Instruction III, SOCW529 Advanced Field Instruction IV and
SOCW532 (Concentration Block)
Two semesters of advanced field instruction are required in either Micro or Macro Practice
concentrations. SOCW 528, SOCW529 and SOCW532 build on knowledge and skills learned in
foundation practica. They also build on courses in the Micro Practice concentration (SOCW540,
541, 542, 543, 544, and 547) or the Macro Practice concentration (SOCW 524, SOCW 580,
SOCW 583, SOCW 511, SOCW 584 and SOCW 585).
Both Macro and Micro concentration students complete SOCW528 concomitantly with two of
the practice classes (SOCW560, 561, 563 or 564), and SOCW529 with the Capstone Project
(SOCW565). The concentration block practicum, SOCW532, is taken with the Capstone Project
(SOCW565) after completion of all other courses.
Learning Objectives for SOCW528, 529 and 532
Students will:
1. Critically evaluate their practice within the area of concentration at all system levels.
(Concentration Objective 1; EPAS Core Competencies 2, 6,10)
2. Identify and respond to value conflicts and ethical dilemmas in the area of concentration.
(Concentration Objective 2; EPAS Core Competency 2)
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3. Be culturally competent and be able to articulate commonalities and differences among diverse
groups within the area of concentration. (Concentration Objective 3; EPAS Core Competency 4)
4. Identify oppressive and discriminating policy, practice and power relations; use change
strategies to reduce/eliminate harmful effects on client well-being and self-determination in the
area of concentration. (Concentration Objective 4; EPAS Core Competencies 5, 10)
5. Identify and analyze historical developments in the area of concentration and their impact on
contemporary policy and practice. (Concentration Objective 5; EPAS Core Competency 8)
6. Build on the generalist perspective; integrate specialized models in the area of concentration.
(Concentration Objective 6; EPAS Core Competency 9)
7. Critically analyze and discriminate among theories across the life span and system levels in the
context of relevant problems in the area of concentration. (Concentration Objective 7; EPAS
Core Competency 7)
8. Analyze, formulate and influence social policies relevant to the area of concentration.
(Concentration Objective 8; EPAS Core Competency 8)
9. Critically evaluate research in the area of concentration, demonstrate application to practice,
and complete group, program, or single subject research in the concentration practicum setting.
(Concentration Objective 9; EPAS Core Competency 6)
10. Evaluate and use verbal and written communication skills across client populations,
colleagues and communities relevant to the area of concentration. (Concentration Objective 10;
EPAS Core Competency 3)
11. Use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice. (Concentration
Objective 11; EPAS Core Competency 1)
12. Analyze organizational dynamics and advocate for change at the level possible within agency
structure in the area of concentration. (Concentration Objective 12; EPAS Core Competencies 9
& 10)
13. Promote and sustain professional development through continuous self-assessment and
actions, which build on their strengths and address challenges. (Concentration Objective 13;
EPAS Core Competency 10)
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Fieldwork Policies
Good Academic Standing
Students must be in good academic standing to begin and remain in practica. Good
academic standing is defined as maintaining a 3.0 grade point average, and not being on
academic probation for other reasons as defined by the Department and the Graduate School.
Because of the importance of field performance in ensuring competent graduates, students must
receive a “B” or better in all field courses. Students receiving a “C” in a field course will
automatically be terminated from the MSW program.
Exceptions to Fieldwork Requirement
No exemptions from the practicum requirement of the curriculum may be granted. Each social
work student must successfully complete the practica in order to graduate from the program,
despite prior work experience in the field. .
Paid Practica
Some agencies/programs may offer stipends to practicum students. Stipends must not place
employment expectations or requirements on students.
Practicum at Place of Employment
Certain requirements exist for students wishing to complete practica at their places of
employment: 1) release time for field instruction should be ensured; 2) student assignments and
fieldwork supervision should differ from those associated with the student’s employment; 3)
field education must be educationally focused rather than solely centered on the agency’s
services. It is imperative that the employees’ work assignments as students differ from that as
employees of the agency during the completion of the practicum. The employee must be in a
student role during the time allocated for the practicum and thus be allowed to pursue the
learning objectives of the social work program. The employee must also have a different
supervisor for field instruction than during normal work hours. The student must complete the
“Application for Practicum at Place of Employment” form and obtain the proper signatures prior
to the semester in which the practicum occurs. No practicum will be authorized without the
proper signatures.
Academic Credit for Life or Previous Work Experience
The Department of Social work does not give credit for life experience or previous work
experience. According to the Council on Social Work Education policy, academic credit for life
experience and previous work experience cannot be granted in whole or in part in lieu of the field
practicum courses.
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MSW Supervision
Students must be supervised by an approved MSW supervisor who provides at least one hour of
direct supervision per week. Students may have a non-MSW task supervisor who works directly
with them on a day-to-day basis.
Field Seminars
Field seminars are held for practica courses in order to integrate classroom experiences with field
experiences. Students are expected to attend the seminars and complete all assignments as part of
their practicum courses.
Student Liability
Car Insurance: Students who use their personal cars as part of their practicum responsibilities are
responsible for maintaining insurance. The insurance should cover transporting clients when this
is part of the field experience.
Travel Expenses: The University does not assume responsibility for student travel expenses.
Students and agencies should clarify travel arrangements and requirements prior to beginning the
placement. While most agencies reimburse mileage accumulated during the practicum, few, if
any, reimburse students for traveling from home to the agency.
Professional Liability: SIUE does not require that students obtain private professional liability
insurance. Those students wishing to purchase liability insurance may do so through membership
in the National Association of Social Workers (www.socialworkers.org)
Safety and Security of Student in Practicum
Agency staff and practicum students are increasingly subject to safety threats in the workplace.
Field instructors and practicum sites, as needed, should:

Discuss safety and security matters with students at the placement interview or at the
beginning of practica. Information about the possibility for violence during practica
should be discussed with students;

Explain and enforce agency safety protocols with students, including building and office
security, emergency procedures, management of violent clients and procedures for home
visits. (NOTE: students are expected to follow agency rules regarding the necessity of
home visits and home visit protocol);

Provide a tour of the surrounding neighborhood or areas in which the student may work
and address concerns students may have regarding work in the community;

Allow students to observe staff engaged in the work for which the student is preparing;

Allow students to be observed while engaged in learning activities; and

Link students with agency-provided security resources (i.e., safety training, cellular
telephones, beepers).
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The following types of activities warrant special concern and, therefore, should be discussed with
the Director of Practica and the student prior to the assignment:
1. Physical restraint of clients;
2. Transportation of a client with a recent history of violent behavior;
3. Treatment of a client with a history of violence toward the staff;
4. Work in the agency at times when or in areas where other staff is not present.
Any incident or injury involving the student should be reported to the Director of Practica as
soon as possible.
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The Placement Process
Students are responsible for arranging practicum placements in consultation with the Director of
Practica. Practica are arranged in advance - at least one semester before they are begun.
Approved field placements are posted on the Department’s website (www.siue.edu/SOCIAL).
Students who do not arrange their practica and return the signature forms (Confirmation
of Practica and Field Learning Center Agreement forms) by the posted deadline will not be
registered for practicum for the given semester. Registration for MSW practica is completed
by the Director of Practica who screens students for eligibility. Advisors may not register
students for field work.
Students generally remain in one agency for each of the two foundation and the two
concentration practica (Each block practicum is generally completed in one agency.) unless
special permission is given by the Director of Practica. Therefore, Confirmation of Practica
and Field Learning Center Agreements must be completed for SOCW526/527, 528/529, and
each Block Practica (SOCW531, 532).
Step One: Application and Planning:
Students should confer with the Director of Practica, as needed, by phone or in person to discuss
possible placement sites. Names and descriptions of approved practicum sites are posted on the
Department’s website. Other agencies may be approved as a practicum sites if they meet CSWE
criteria and are approved by the Director of Practica prior to submittal of the Confirmation of
Practicum and Field Learning Center Signature forms. Students should discuss possible
placements in non-approved agencies with the Director of Practica. Students should also
complete the Application for Practicum form (Foundation or Concentration) and bring it
to advising appointments with their mentors. Students should discuss their career plans
and potential placements with their mentors. More importantly, concentration students
should discuss with their mentors how their placements will differ from their foundation
practica and how the advanced placement will help the students grow in skills, values and
knowledge.
Students should be aware that some agencies require extensive background checks and drug
screening. If students have concerns about this issue, they should discuss them confidentially
with their advisors or the Practicum Director.
Step Two: Interviews with Prospective MSW Field Instructors
Following the planning meeting, students should contact the potential practicum site personnel
and schedule and complete an interview(s). It is the student’s responsibility to initiate contact
with the prospective MSW Field Instructor and to arrange an interview. This meeting, for both
the student and the MSW Field Instructor, has goals of assessment, negotiation and decisionmaking. Points to consider during the interview are:
1. Does this setting provide activities and responsibilities that will fulfill the requirements of the
practicum? Students are responsible for understanding practicum requirements and negotiating
appropriately. While MSW Field Instructors who have worked with SIUE in the past are usually
familiar with requirements, this does not relieve students of this responsibility.
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2. Are the proposed activities consistent with the student’s interests and learning needs? Many
settings have a range of practice assignment in different programs.
3. Is there a good interpersonal “fit” between students and the MSW Field Instructor? There
should be enough congruence in communication styles and general philosophy that students and
the MSW Field Instructor can work together effectively.
4. Can the student learn something from this MSW Field Instructor? Students should have
confidence in the MSW Field Instructor’s expertise and willingness to take on the teaching role.
Step Three: Confirmation of Practicum
After negotiating the practicum site, students complete the “Confirmation of Practicum” form
and the “Field Learning Center Placement Agreement” form, obtain the appropriate agency and
supervisor(s) signatures, and submit them to the Director of Practicum for approval.
Step Four: Starting the Practicum
Some agencies have formal training programs for new staff. At other agencies, informal
observation visits may occur. Most settings have manuals or other orientation materials
describing agency policies and procedures. Information regarding policies and procedures for the
student’s safety in the field should be provided at this time. MSW Field Instructors may also
assign reading relevant to the practicum. It is recommended that orientation be started before
students begin field work whenever possible. If an agency requires that students begin
fieldwork other than orientation before the beginning of the semester special permission
must be obtained from the Director of Practica.
By the end of the first four weeks of practicum or by the posted deadline, students must complete
the “Learning Agreement” form appropriate for the course number with the assistance of the
MSW Field Instructor. It is the student’s responsibility to coordinate the writing and signing of
this form and to return it to the seminar instructor by the deadline noted in the seminar syllabus.
A new Learning Agreement must be completed for each semester of practica. Students
should then make a photocopy of the completed form for themselves and for the MSW
Field Instructor and then submit the original copy to the seminar instructor. Failure to
adequately complete the Learning Agreement form and to submit it by the deadline may
result in cancellation of the practicum or the lowering of the final grade.
Step Five: During the Practicum
During the practicum, the Seminar Instructor/Field Liaison will contact field supervisors to
arrange a visit to monitor the student’s progress. However, the Field Liaison or the Director of
Practica should be contacted immediately if there are significant problems within the practicum
particularly if the student, the agency, or the MSW Field Instructor wishes to terminate a
practicum before the completion of the required hours.
Occasionally, problems arise that are so serious that they threaten the entire placement. Such a
situation can occur as a result of agency restructuring, insufficient supervision, inappropriate use
of student time, inadequate resources or experiences to allow for a proper learning experience, or
personality or ideological conflicts between student and field instructor. Early problem solving is
most effective. Students and MSW Field Instructors are responsible to each other for early
identification of problems and efforts to resolve them. Students who are dissatisfied with their
placement should first discuss the problem with their MSW Field Instructor. If the issues remain
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unresolved, the student should discuss the situation with the Seminar Instructor/Field Liaison
who will attempt to resolve the issue.
Termination of Practicum by Agency/MSW Field Instructor: A student may be removed
from a field placement if the placement becomes unsatisfactory, whether this is caused by
circumstances arising between the student and the agency or from the student’s behavior. Such a
decision will be reached only after joint consultation between the MSW Field Instructor, the
Field Liaison (as appropriate), and the Director of Practica. This consultation may also include
(as appropriate) other significant persons such as the agency director, MSW Program Director
and the student’s advisor. The MSW Field Instructor should document the situation in writing
for inclusion in the student’s record. Once the placement is terminated, it becomes the
responsibility of the Department of Social Work to determine any remedial action that must be
completed by the student. It is also the responsibility of the Department of Social Work whether
or not to place that student in another setting either during the same academic year or in the
future, or to recommend a grade of either withdrawal (W), incomplete (I) or failure (F).
Termination of Practicum by Student: Rarely, students may express problems with an MSW
Field Instructor or agency and may wish to change practicum sites. Student experiencing
problems in practicum should first discuss the situation with the seminar instructor. (The
Director of Practica or academic advisor may be consulted for assistance in problem resolution, if
needed.) If the situation is not resolved, the student should then discuss the situation with the
Director of Practica who must give permission to the termination of the practicum The student
should request that the MSW Field Instructor complete a “Final Evaluation” form, noting the
number of completed hours in the practicum. No partial credit for the completed hours of
practicum will be given without the proper completion of the “Final Evaluation” form. After
approval by the Director of Practica, students may pursue another practicum site and must
complete the standard forms for a new practicum. Student must also complete an “Incomplete”
form if completion of the new practicum exceeds the semester deadline.
Step Six: Evaluation of Practicum
In order to evaluate and terminate the practicum, the field seminar instructor: 1) establishes a due
date for the submission of the Final Evaluation form, and 2) reviews each completed form and
submits grades to the University at the appropriate time. The MSW Field Instructor completes
the Final Evaluation Form and discusses the evaluation with each student. Students are
responsible for timely submission of the Final Evaluation form to the seminar instructor by the
due date. Students not submitting Final Evaluations by the due date will receive a grade of “F’
for the practicum. The student is responsible for contacting the field seminar instructor to
complete an “Incomplete” form if the practicum and/or final evaluation cannot be completed by
the assigned date. It is the responsibility of the field seminar instructor to determine and assign
the final grade.
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Requirements for Agencies/Programs for Field Practica
The agency must complete the Agency/Program Assessment Summary and legal forms and be
formally approved by the Director of Practica as a practicum site.
The agency must deliver social services within the context of the knowledge and value base of
social work (See: NASW Code of Ethics).
The agency must be willing to provide the SIUE Department of Social Work with information
concerning its program, services, and development in the community which affect field and/or
class curricula.
The agency’s policies and procedures, philosophy, and objectives must be congruent with SIUE
Social Work Department’s commitment to under-served populations based on race, class, gender,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability and age.
The agency must provide a learning climate conducive to student learning.
The agency must designate a specific qualified person as MSW Field Instructor and provide
him/her with the time, resources and authority needed for practicum instruction. The field
instructor of record must hold an MSW degree and have at least two year's field experience.
Persons with degrees from other disciplines may supervise students as task instructors under the
supervision of a qualified social work practitioner with the permission of the Director of Practica.
The agency must be willing to provide students with direct practice assignments and
responsibilities appropriate for the baccalaureate-level practice that are described in the Learning
Agreement.
The agency must be willing to consider Students in a learning role rather than as an auxiliary
staff member.
The agency must provide adequate physical space and support services.
Administration and other staff should be knowledgeable and supportive of baccalaureate level
practice, and the purposes and processes of professional education.
If the agency reimburses its staff for transportation expenses on the job, it should provide similar
reimbursement for practicum students.
The agency must be willing to treat all information about student’s progress as confidential.
The agency must be willing to allow students to participate in staff meetings, training,
conferences, etc.
It is preferred that agency services encompass a range of program activities so that students can
be exposed to a variety of practice activities.
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Requirements for MSW Field Instructors
Prospective Field Instructors must complete an Application for Field Instructor form and be
formally approved by the Director of Practica as a Field Instructor;
Field Instructors must attend orientation meetings as scheduled by the Department of Social
Work.
Field Instructors must hold an MSW degree; have at least two years postmasters experience in
the field of social work, and one year experience at their current work site.
Field Instructors must orient Students to agency operations, culture, policies, procedures, and
expectations.
Field Instructors must be willing and able to participate in the practicum contracting process
described in this manual.
Field Instructors must have adequate practice experience to be knowledgeable about the methods,
purposes and boundaries of their current professional settings. They must be familiar with
programs, procedures and community networks.
Field Instructors must have enough familiarity with the baccalaureate-level practice to make an
appropriate assignment and evaluation.
Field Instructors must make adequate time available for supervision (at least one hour weekly)
and evaluation of students and for conferences as needed with the faculty.
Field Instructors must demonstrate personal and professional commitment to the values and
ethics of the profession.
Field Instructors must show a strong commitment to teaching and preparing aspirants to the
profession and be an appropriate role model for Students.
Field Instructors must evaluate students from the strengths perspective.
Field Instructors must provide a formal evaluation of Students using the appropriate form at least
once a semester.
Field Instructors must notify the Field Liaison or the Director of Practica of any problems or
anticipated problems arising from student performance and/or agency change which may affect
student performance.
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Director of Practica Responsibilities
The Director of Practica will monitor the field instruction program so that it responds to new and
developing roles of social work and requirements by CSWE.
The Director of Practica will provide a Practicum Manual and appropriate forms to students and
MSW Field Instructors.
The Director of Practica will direct and coordinate the placement process. This includes:
a) consulting with agency directors about the availability of field instructors, their ability
to meet the requirements for a field instruction site, and their willingness to partner with
the school to provide an educationally sound and professionally focused field experience
for baccalaureate level social work students;
b) Identifying and recommending those agencies which meet the school’s criteria for
baccalaureate level field practicum placement;
c) approving baccalaureate students’ placements.
The Director of Practica will provide students with orientation to practicum placement in both
general and specific dimensions.
The Director of Practica will be available for consultation with agency directors, field instructors,
field liaisons, and students.
The Director of Practica will develop, coordinate, and present practicum related seminars, inservices, practicum fairs and other learning opportunities as appropriate for student, field
instructors and agencies.
The Director of Practica will provide and coordinate tuition waivers per University guidelines for
eligible field instructors.
The Director of Practica will determine the criteria for the selection of field agencies, field
instructors, field learning objectives, and evaluation of student performance.
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Field Liaison Responsibilities
The Field Liaison will provide linkage and communication with the MSW Field Instructor,
students, agency, and the Director of Practica.
The Field Liaison teaches assigned field seminars and review student learning agreements.
The Field Liaison will assist Students and agency as necessary with the integration of academic
study with practice.
The Field Liaison will consult with the Director of Practica about student problems, or potential,
anticipated difficulties arising either from Students or agency performance.
The Field Liaison will serve as a key resource to concerns arising in the practicum by advocating
for Students, Field Instructor and agency towards a successful resolution.
The Field Liaison will consult with the MSW Field Instructor and Students regarding Students’s
achievement of learning goals.
The Field Liaison will monitor students’ learning experiences by phone contact with Students
and Field Instructor as necessary, site visits (preferably) once a semester, and as requested by the
Director of Practica.
The Field Liaison will complete the appropriate forms (see Appendix) after site visits and
forward 6the forms to the Director of Practica.
The Director of Practica supervises the Field Liaison in practicum related duties.
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Student Responsibilities
Students will meet the ethical standards of the profession by following the NASW Code of
Ethics.
Students will abide by the SIUE Department of Social Work Student Behavior Policy.
Students will arrange and implement placement interviews with practicum agencies.
Students will complete all paperwork related to selecting, entering, maintaining, and evaluating
the field instruction practicum.
Students, in cooperation with the Field Instructor, will complete the appropriate Learning
Agreement form and return it to the Director of Practica within four weeks of beginning the
practicum or by the date posted.
Students will participate actively in an ongoing evaluation of his/her performance including the
constructive and appropriate use of supervision.
Students will adhere to agency personnel policies, regulations and procedures.
Students will assume a professional role as a representative of the agency in contacts with clients,
colleagues and the community.
Students will be proactive in finding learning opportunities in the practicum.
Students will utilize procedures established by the Department of Social Work to resolve
learning difficulties in the field.
Students will adhere to all field practicum policies, meet all course requirements, and submit all
placement paperwork by the assigned due dates
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