MSW Practicum Instruction
The signature pedagogy of our program, MSW practicum instruction (referred to as “practicum” for short) is a professional placement where you apply classroom knowledge in a practice setting, gaining confidence as you demonstrate competence in what you’ve learned. Practicum is also an academic course with assignments and requirements.
About Practicum Instruction
As part of the practicum, you are paired with a practicum liaison. The liaison teaches your practicum seminar course, works as your adviser, and as a mediator/go-between for you and the agency in which you are placed.
Academic year placements typically are from September through April/May, requiring 14-20 hours per week, depending on placement. Summer placements require 35-40 hours per week for 12 to 15 weeks.
Placement
Foundation Placement: (420 hours) is completed only by MSW students in the Full Program.
Concentration Placement: (600 hours) is completed by MSW students in both the Full and Advanced Standing Programs.
Field Fair
The MSW Practicum Fair happens each spring, preparing MSW students for fall internships. Students meet representatives from local agencies and arrange for internships interviews.
For students
Intern placement tracking (IPT)
Instructions for completing learning contracts
Application for developing a new field placement
Application for internship at place of employment
Practicum application For international and out of state students who cannot attend Practicum Fair
For agency/field instructors
Sample field documents
If your agency is interested in becoming a practicum internship site, please contact rchears@umn.edu
Initial practicum contract-SAMPLE
Competencies Assessment and Learning Contract-SAMPLE
Practicum manual
Additional handbooks, manuals, forms, and guidelines related to the MSW can be found on the bottom of the MSW program page.